NY Empire Battle Back to Earn 1-1 Draw Against Defending Champions NY Renegades

NY Empire FC showed grit and determination Saturday night, earning a 1-1 draw against the defending division champions, the NY Renegades, in a thrilling matchup.

The Renegades struck early, with Junior Rosero finding the back of the net in the 5th minute to put the visitors ahead. Empire spent much of the first half absorbing pressure and working to find their rhythm, with defenders Malcom Swett, Trevor Henderson, Justin Pierre, and Vaclav Borovicka holding firm to keep the game within reach.

After the break, Empire came out energized and got their breakthrough in the 55th minute. Mason Chetti buried the equalizer, finishing off a clever setup from Sebastian Monroy. The goal ignited the team and the home crowd as Empire dominated the remainder of the second half, creating multiple chances — including two dangerous opportunities in the closing minutes — but couldn’t find the game-winner.

Goalkeeper Kenny Cordova was a key figure, making four crucial saves to keep the Empire level. The midfield trio of Monroy, Steven Rojas, and Nico Reinoso controlled the tempo in the second half, while forwards Tim de Meij, Zane Brown, and Chetti provided a strong attacking presence. Substitutes Adiel Barrera, Steven Siso, Wilber Gomez, Gio Fabiano, and Jesper Mikkelson gave the squad a boost off the bench, helping maintain the pressure.

Coach Max Ferro praised his team’s resilience but acknowledged the missed opportunity. “Against a powerhouse like the Renegades, we’ll take the point — but we know we could have taken all three,” Ferro said after the match.

NY Empire will look to build on this performance in a crucial home game this Saturday night, when they host East Coast Football Club at 7:30 p.m. at the SUSA Orlin & Cohen Sports Complex.