(NASL 2015 Spring) New York Cosmos 1v0 Ottawa Fury

Saturday 3rd May 2015
MCU Park, New York   Attendance -  5,279

New York increased their lead at the top of the table after a victory at Brooklyn's MCU Park over Ottawa Fury. Cosmos dominated the match for large periods, but an inability to add to Lucky's early strike meant that by the end of the game the home side were thankful to hear the final whistle.

Cosmos came flying out of the traps and Lucky almost went ahead in the 2nd minute. A well worked move carved the Fury defence open, but Lucky's shot was well saved. Fernandes had an effort moments later as the home side continued their fast start.

But the visitors could have taken the lead when a mis-hit cross almost caught Jimmy Maurer out. The left wing cross almost  crept in at the near post, but Maurer just about managed to prevent the ball from drifting in and the ball was scrambled away. 

But the Cosmos got the goal their play deserved. Fernandes was the architect as he set off with a great run down the left wing. His pass was well taken by Lucky and he produced a neat finish to open his account for his new side.

Lucky had an opportunity to double his tally, but as the Ottawa defence appealed for offside his effort went over the bar. Restrepo was having another good game as he had the beating of his marker down the right wing. He sent over a dangerous low cross, but no-one could get the vital touch to score.

Lucky produced a moment of great skill to set up Danny Szetela, who should have done better as he fired well over.

The Fury had been thoroughly second best in the first half, but improved after the break, although the Cosmos still looked the side most likely to score. On 65mins Lucky had another chance to score, but could not convert an Ayoze cross. Patterson fired over for Ottawa soon after to remind the Cosmos that they were still a threat.

As the game wore on the Cosmos seemed intent on holding onto their lead and the introduction of Ubiparipovic added impetus to the away sides attack. Maurer was called into action as the Fury went in search of an equaliser, with saves from Oliver and Heinemann.

At the other end Raul was denied as the Keeper came off his line well and at the death the linesman incredibly flagged a Restrepo goal offside which was a good 2 yards onside, but in the end one goal was enough.