Shelton scores late as NYCFC earns Draw with Chicago Fire

Khiry Shelton. Photo by: Stacy Podelski/1495 Sports

Khiry Shelton waited and worked a long time for the one moment, the moment where he could connect for his first Major League Soccer goal.

That moment for Shelton came in the 91 minute, as the forward aimed for the far post and shot it past the diving Sean Johnson, who was the keeper for the Chicago Fire.

Setting-up Shelton was David Villa, who was one of many players that gave the extra effort for New York City FC ( 1-6-4) , who earned a 2-2 draw with the Chicago Fire (3-5-1) in Major League Soccer action on Friday.

This is going to be one to remember for New York City FC fans, as the team not only came back from a 2-0 deficit, but also gave an extra effort a man down for most of the match.

In the 26 minute defender RJ Allen was issued a red card, in which the Chicago Fire were able to convert into their second goal of the match as Jeff Larentowicz was able to score on a penalty kick

Chicago had started the match extremely aggressive striking at the 14 minute mark for the first goal as Razvan Cocis looped a header for the early lead.

When all had seemed the way of the Fire, Mehdi Ballouchy changed the momentum in the 46 minute, as the Midfielder cut into the lead prior to the end of the Half.

Ballouchy who put in a rebounded shot from Villa, gave the club new life and energy.

Playing with extra hunger and with some great support from the 23,315 in attendance at Yankee Stadium, New York City FC kept fighting till the end.

Getting back to Shelton, who was a sub for the club on this night, as the Forward came in at the 60 minute.

Shelton, who was once again impressive and provided positive minutes, was rewarded with his first goal. Also rewarded for his great effort on the defensive end of the pitch was Keeper Josh Saunders, who had one save made that looked as if he was literally standing on his head to make the stop.

So many great stories came from this night, which could be one that is looked back on as a turning point for the club.

New York City FC will now head West to take on Head Coach Jason Kreis‘ former team Real Salt Lake, on Friday, May 23. Kickoff from Rio Tinto Stadium is 10 p.m. EDT. The game will be broadcast on YES

1495 Sports is proud to bring the following post-match videos:

Mehdi Ballouchy