An early goal from David Villa was all New York City FC needed to take a 1-0 victory Friday afternoon over USL side Oklahoma City Energy FC in their preseason opener at IMG Academy in Bradenton, Fla.
Villa took advantage of a turnover in Energy FC’s end and converted past the goalkeeper to the far post.
NYCFC midfielder Mix Diskerud and forward Khiry Shelton, both fresh off their time at the US national team’s recently completed January camp, made their preseason debuts. City missed out on a chance for a second goal when Energy were whistled for a penalty for a handball in the box, but Patrick Mullins’ spot kick was saved.
New York return to action Wednesday against the Montreal Impact in Tampa Bay.
