Ring: "I'm not worried, we can score goals there"

Midfielder Alex Ring believes the tight dimensions of the Yankee Stadium pitch actually played to Atlanta’s advantage. Now the scene shifts to a venue Atlanta has thrived in, going 11-2-4 at the Benz this year. 

One of those four draws was a 2-2 stalemate against NYCFC on April 15. 

“We’ve played there before. We know we can score goals there. I’m not worried,” Ring said. “Like I said, playoffs is what you’ve been working for all year and I’m sure we’ll bring our A-game when we show up there.”

The task is simple, even if the execution could be difficult. NYCFC will have to win on the road for the first time since a 3-2 win over Toronto FC on Aug. 12 to avoid losing in the Eastern Conference Semifinals for the third consecutive year. 

“What happened before the playoffs I honestly don’t give a [crap],” Ring said. “If you’re not ready and you have a mental blockage in the playoffs because you’re playing away then you’re playing the wrong sport.”