David Villa nets brace as New York City FC thrashes Colorado Rapids

Updated: May 17, 2023, 05:30 am

David Villa had two goals for New York City FC in a comprehensive 4-0 win against the struggling Colorado Rapids at Yankee Stadium on Saturday.

The former Barcelona player scored either side of half-time, capitalizing on a bad giveaway by Tim Howard for his first in the 22nd minute.

Villa then started the move for NYCFC's second, playing in Jo Inge Berget, whose shot was blocked by Howard but bounced right to Ronald Matarrita to head home from 10 yards away.

Maxi Moralez made it three for the hosts on 56 minutes, smashing home a first-time shot from just outside the box when the referee had played advantage following a foul on Villa.

And Villa bagged his brace in the 74th minute, curling a perfect shot around Howard after Rodney Wallace picked him out all alone on the left side of the area.

The win helps Patrick Vieira's team keep the pressure on Eastern Conference leaders Atlanta United, trailing the Five Stripes by a point ahead of their match against the New York Red Bulls on Sunday.