Yangel Herrera re-energises midfield

It was a staggering performance from Yangel Herrera, a 20-year-old who has spent the majority of the year rehabbing and only made his return in a 3-1 loss to D.C. United a little over a week ago. He had played just 108 minutes prior to Wednesday night. And now he is one of the most important players on the pitch.

Herrera provided a backbone in midfield that New York had been missing in recent weeks. He was tenacious, tough-tackling, industrious and disciplined. He made three tackles, three interceptions, completed 84% of his passes, and had 13 ball recoveries, more than any other player on the pitch. This was an all-action performance.

NYCFC have always had the offensive firepower to rival the very best in MLS. And on any given day, a piece of David Villa magic could be enough for this team. The problem was they were rarely able to provide a midfield foundation for the brilliant attackers to go out and express themselves. Herrera now offers that, and at just the right time.