The story goes that York United FC are all about the spirited comebacks. That late, late drama. And there’s good reason for that.

It arguably started late last term, with the 3-2 home victory against Edmonton providing one of those grandstand finishes, as Jordan Wilson’s header from close-range ensured a crucial come-from-behind win to keep the team’s slim playoff chances alive. Next up - a local derby with Forge in Hamilton - saw an early Osaze De Rosario goal cancelled out in the second-half by the hosts, only for Chrisnovic N’sa to step up with an all-time classic before Mo Babouli - in his very first start - applied the finishing touch to a superb turnaround. Even the final game of the regular season saw de Rosario produce a magnificent equalizer late in Ottawa to ensure a 2-2 draw.

This campaign has had similar moments too. Remember Brem Soumaoro at Tim Hortons Field? Or the comeback win on Pride Night against Atletico thanks to De Rosario’s header? And then, of course, Kevin dos Santos producing a moment of calm in the chaos of a frenetic finale at home to the side from the capital to push the side to the brink of the playoffs.

However, there's one astonishing statistic that paints a different picture. One of how York United can control and manage games. One of how they don't just need some late, great fireworks to get them over the line. One of scoring first.

In total, it's happened 11 times from the 28 regular season games.

But, when it has happened, The Nine Stripes are unbeaten: eight wins and three draws. The only other team unbeaten when taking the lead in games is Forge FC.

Martin Nash's side have scored 20 goals in those games, conceding 10 and managing 27 points from a possible 33. And it should be more too, with the 3-3 draw in Ottawa seeing the team surrendering a substantial 2-0 advantage.

Still, as the season has progressed, York United have shown an increased ability to see games out. They made sure of results in back-to-back situations - at home to Vancouver FC and then on the road in a crucial clash with Halifax. Despite the late pressure, they got the job done and displayed terrific spirit and grit to push through. Similarly, in a pair of must-win assignments against Atletico and against Vancouver once more, they dug deep, stuck together and held firm. It was disciplined and resolute: two things they need to call on once again tonight.

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