NY Empire FC Earns Hard-Fought Point on the Road Against Defending Champs

In a gritty showdown against the reigning league champions, NY Empire FC held their ground and walked away with a hard-earned 1-1 draw against NY Renegades FC on Sunday. The Renegades, who took last year’s league title but fell short in the national quarterfinals, proved a tough test, but Empire showed they belong in the top tier.

Empire struck first just before halftime, with Captain Edward Speed putting the visitors ahead in the 41st minute. The forward made no mistake after receiving a sharp cross from Emgi Gousse, slipping the ball through the keeper’s legs in a brilliant finish that electrified the away fans.

The second half was a physical battle, with both teams creating chances in a match that never lacked intensity. The Renegades eventually found their equalizer in the 77th minute, leveling the score and setting up a dramatic final stretch.

Despite late chances from NY Empire, including a couple of near-misses in the closing minutes, the match ended in a draw. The result sees Empire leave with a valuable point on the road and maintain their unbeaten start to the season.

With a record of 2 wins, 1 draw, and 0 losses, Empire now sits in second place in the league standings.

“It’s a great start to the season,” said head coach Max Ferro after the match. “We showed we can compete with anyone.”

NY Empire FC returns home this Saturday for a 7:30 PM kickoff against Red Hook FC at Empire Park.