Red Bull New York II (13-9-5, 46 pts.) secures the two points via penalty shootout win against FC Cincinnati 2 (5-19-3, 20 pts.) on Sunday night at MSU Soccer Park.
Late in the second half, FC Cincinnati 2 took the lead with a goal from Jack Mize at the top of the eighteen yard box.
In the 81st minute, substitute fullback Aimar Modelo linked up with winger Sean Baitinger who found substitute forward Christian Gallagher to equalize for New York.
In the penalty kick shootout, goalkeeper Tobias Szewczyk saved Cincinnati’s opening attempt from Mathias Vazquez. Nate Worth, Baitinger, Deven Cadigan, Gallagher and Omar Valencia all converted their penalties as New York won the shootout, 5-3.
Gallagher scored his ninth goal this season, which leads the club.
In the past five matches, the 18-year-old has scored five goals.
Baitinger recorded his sixth assist of the season.
The 18-year-old has accumulated 11 goal contributions in the campaign.
Modelo registered his fifth assist of the season.
The Panamanian international has recorded a goal contribution in consecutive matches.
Defender Leonardo Dieujuste made his first career MLS NEXT Pro start.
With the two points, the defending champions clinched a playoff spot.
Following Sunday’s match, Red Bulls II will host Huntsville City FC for the regular season finale at MSU Soccer Park on Sunday, September 20. Kickoff is set for 2 p.m. ET with coverage available on OneFootball and MLSNEXTPro.com.
