NYRB II draw, 0-0, with Toronto FC II

New York Red Bulls II came away with a point in their draw against Toronto FC II on Saturday.

Manager John Wolyniec made three chances to the side that drew against LA Galaxy II last weekend. Evan Louro started in goal once again and there was one change to the back four as Hassan Ndam replaced Fidel Escobar. Niko de Vera, Jordan Scarlett and Ethan Kutler all remained in the team. Chris Lema made his professional debut in the holding midfield as he partnered with Andrew Tinari. Jose Aguinaga started in the “10” role once again as Brian White flanked to his right while Amando Moreno replaced Carlos Rivas to his left. Stefano Bonomo was once again the lone striker up top.

Both teams tried to get a foothold early on in the game, but the passing in the find third was lacking. Toronto FC II had the best chance in the opening 20 minutes, but Luke Spencer’s header was straight at Louro.

NYRB II had a good chance a few minutes later as White was able to get free down the right and his low cross found Bonomo, but his shot was blocked behind for a corner.

Both teams continued to try and find a goal in the first half and NYRB II did end up with the ball in the net, but the goal was not counted. White was again involved as his cross found Moreno who was able to head in, but the referee had adjudged the ball to hit the forward’s hand and he was issued a yellow card.

The teams went into half deadlocked and neither side had been able to take their chances.

NYRB II came out more aggressive in the second half and had a great chance to take the lead when Moreno was tripped up in the box and earned his team a penalty.

Despite the golden opportunity Bonomo’s penalty was saved by Toronto FC II goalie Caleb Patterson-Sewell.

Wolyniec tried to inject some life into the squad as he sent on Jared Stroud for Moreno minutes later.

Stroud almost made an immediate impact but he and Bonomo’s shots were blocked well which kept the score even.

NYRB II continued to push for the opening goal and Wolyniec sent on Tom Barlow for Bonomo.

Barlow nearly opened his account and gave his team the lead, but his bicycle kick from de Vera’s cross went wide.

Ultimately neither team could find the back of the net and the game ended in 0-0 draw. Although they drew, NYRB II did extend it’s unbeaten streak to five straight games.

NYRB II will look to continue their streak and earn their first road win of the season when they travel to take on Ottawa Fury FC. The game will be on Wednesday, May 2, at 10:30 am.