Just one game stands in the way of the New York Red Bulls and the Audi 2017 MLS Cup Playoffs and that is a Decision Day matchup against hated rival, D.C. United.
Head coach Jesse Marsch detailed his plan to rest players ahead of a quick turnaround from Sunday into the midweek Knockout Round match, but said New York wants to make an impact in D.C.’s final game at RFK Stadium.
“We would love nothing more than to end D.C.’s time at RFK with a loss,” Marsch said. “We’re going to go there, no matter who’s on the field, go after the game in a big way and the points can help us come MLS Cup time so there’s enough motivation to make sure that we put a really good foot forward.”
While New York has already secured the six seed, MLS Decision Day will determine their opponent.
The Red Bulls will face either NYCFC, Chicago Fire, Atlanta United FC or Columbus Crew SC, depending on Sunday’s results.
“There’s challenges and bonuses for all of them, but no matter what, you know that in the playoffs it’s going to be hard,” Marsch said. “We’re going to be on the road, there are four places that have been very good at home this year, but certainly nowhere that we fear.”
With a win-or-go-home playoff match just a week away, Marsch’s side has already begun preparations for their playoff opponents to ensure his side is ready following the quick turnaround following Sunday’s match.
“We’re already beginning the preparation process for which team it’ll be,” Marsch said. “Every team pretty much plays the same formation so that should be easy enough, then it’s just adjusting things for the personnel that we’re going to see.
“It’ll be challenging no matter what and it’ll be interesting to see how each team comes out of each game and where they sit.”
