For New York City FC,<\/a> the season has been a tale of two very different teams. At home, they are a dominant force, one of the best clubs in Major League Soccer. On the road, however, they have been one of the league\u2019s biggest disappointments. That glaring inconsistency will be put to the test as New York City FC begins a crucial four-match road trip on Saturday night against a Charlotte FC <\/a>side that is dealing with its own slump and significant off-field distractions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The contrast in NYCFC\u2019s form is staggering. At the friendly confines of Yankee Stadium, they have been formidable, posting an impressive 8-3-0 record. But away from home, that confidence and quality seems to vanish. Their road record is a dismal 1-4-4, a mark that is holding them back from being considered a true elite contender in the East. This four-game road trip, which begins in Charlotte, will be a defining stretch that could either see them solve their travel issues and surge up the standings or continue to tread water as a mid-table team. The players are well aware of the challenge that lies ahead.<\/p>\n\n\n\n “We know the places we go, especially in the summer, it’s hard there,” NYCFC defender Mitja Ilenic acknowledged. The team is coming off a solid 3-1 home victory over Toronto FC, a performance they desperately need to replicate away from the Bronx. Under coach Nick Cushing, they have shown flashes of offensive firepower, scoring at least three goals in each of their last three victories, but finding that cutting edge on the road has been the primary issue.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThe Jekyll and Hyde of NYCFC<\/h3>\n\n\n\n