New York’s 3-0 win in the US Open Cup was an effort once again spearheaded by the team’s burgeoning depth. Here are four points we’re thinking about after the Red Bulls’ latest win at the friendly confines of Red Bull Arena.
1. Depth Charges: For a third straight game, the Red Bulls won in the cup fielding mainly reserves. In fact, nine of the 11 starters from Sunday’s 3-1 win over Juventus were in the lineup Wednesday night. “I’m rather pleased with the performance today,” coach Hans Backe said. “We controlled all of the 90 minutes today and were great with the possession.”
2. The Life of Irv: All of a sudden a fan favorite, the diminutive Irving Garcia is showing good skill on the ball and solid distribution. After controlling the midfield from the right flank against Juventus, he showed poise and veteran savvy in the win against Colorado. “I think Irving brings a young, fresh, real new energy that maybe some of the defenders who have been playing a while, haven’t really seen from the Red Bulls,” forward Conor Chinn said.
3. Sutton Saves: He won’t get much credit after the dominating offensive performance, but goalkeeper Greg Sutton looked very good. While his beautiful reaction save in the second half will get all the talk, he came off his line very well and controlled the area with ease. Backe has to feel good that if No. 1 choice Bouna Coundoul goes down or loses form, Sutton is ready to step in.
4. Woly’s World: Now it’s four goals in the tournament for long-tenured forward John Wolyniec, who has upped his game since the injury to Macoumba Kandji. With 36 goals in all competition for the franchise, has Wolyniec finally earned his due and get a starting spot Saturday in New England? “Any chance you have an opportunity is a chance to show what you can do and trying to get on the first team,” he said.
Player Ratings
GK – Greg Sutton: Did brilliantly on a 58th-minute save on Colorado’s Mehdi Ballouchy. Good organization with a smattering of nice saves. Quietly making a case to start in the regular season. Rating: 7
D – Chris Albright: Same thing he always seems to do every time he steps on the field: win his defensive battles and move into the attack well. Rating: 7
D – Carlos Mendes: Quiet but steady night for the veteran central defender. Solid. Rating: 6
D – Roy Miller: Steady as they come and so smooth on the ball. Perhaps the best attacking outside back this franchise has seen since Diego Sonora back in the day. Rating: 7
D – Luke Sassano: Whether playing out wide or centrally, Sassano won the ball and distributed well. Rating: 6
M – Jeremy Hall: Won several key tackles in the first 10 minutes that set the tone. Moved into the attack well. Looked more comfortable on the wing then he did on Thursday in league play. Rating: 7.5
M – Sinisa Ubiparipovic: His first touch isn’t the best, but his pass to set up the first goal was precise. A good overall game as he controlled the flow of the midfield. Rating: 7.5
M – Tony Tchani: Another start in the cup for Tchani, who made all the right little plays and passes. Rating: 7
M – Irving Garcia: Now officially a cult icon to the New York fans after his play in the Juventus match, Garcia is smooth on the ball and plays without any attacking fear. Another effort to build on. Rating: 7.5
F – John Wolyniec: Another cup match, another brace for the “Silver Fox.” Clinical finishing Wednesday night. Rating: 8.5
F – Conor Chinn: Strayed offsides a few times in the first half and then pounced to score the third goal. Rating: 7
D – Mike Petke: Got “stuck-in” several times upon entering at the half as Colorado pressed. Very solid insertion perhaps overshadowed because of the offensive fireworks. Rating: 7
D – Danleigh Borman: Praised by Backe after the match for another good performance. These cup games continue to buoy Borman’s league play. Rating: 6.5
M – Seth Stammler: Despite a yellow card, played well and won some nice balls. Good vision as he sprayed the ball to the wings and switch fields. Rating: 6
M – Dane Richards: His speed stretched Colorado consistently. Should have had an effort on goal when in alone but over-dribbled. Rating: 6
Kristian Dyer is a reporter for MLSSoccer.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Soccer or its clubs.
