New York's 2-0 defeat of the league-leading LA Galaxy kicked off a great weekend of MLS action — and it helped the Red Bulls make an emphatic statement that they are a team to be reckoned with.
Here are the player ratings from the game:
GK - Bouna Coundoul: Beyond solid in his play, snagging balls and making some good reaction saves, in particular in the last 20 minutes as the Red Bulls held on to preserve the win. Plus, he showed some leadership out there when he confronted Landon Donovan after a dicey challenge. Rating: 7
D - Carey Talley: A rough debut for the defender, but he should settle in with a full week of practice. Looked uneasy, but it was nothing upon which the veteran can’t improve in a week’s time. Injury forced him from the game too early to redeem himself from a shaky start. Rating: 5
D - Carlos Mendes: Gave the Galaxy no space and rarely let the LA forwards turn on the ball. Won his aerial battles centrally and then did very well when he moved to right back following Talley’s injury. Can’t get enough credit for that versatility. Rating: 7
D - Tim Ream: Made a couple uncharacteristic turnovers but was otherwise solid. LA never looked settled in the attacking third and Ream was a huge part of this. Good man-marking all night. Rating: 7
D - Roy Miller: A quiet evening for Miller, but the left back pushed up very well and seemed to relish the challenge of going against David Beckham when the LA DP got free down the right. Rating: 6
M - Dane Richards: The Jamaican midfielder had a party all night long up and down the right flank, scoring a goal and drawing the foul to set up the penalty kick. Another complete effort from the winger. Rating: 8
M - Rafa Márquez: A bit subdued from the Mexico captain, who perhaps still struggles with the ankle injury. Still, his organization and ability to drop deep and carry the ball forward is what was missing for this team. Rating: 6
M - Tony Tchani: Played unselfishly for the benefit of the team, which shows the rookie is maturing. Was a physical presence, but he also held the ball well to allow the attack to develop. Rating: 7
M - Joel Lindpere: A tireless effort once again from the Estonian, whose shot off the post set up New York’s first goal. Will someone please explain, again, why he didn't make the All-Star team? Rating: 7.5
F - Mehdi Ballouchy: Second game in a New York kit and second game making an impact. His ability to link passes and play diagonal balls is a great addition to the team. His fluidity and ability to play balls through the opposition’s defense has turned New York into a genuine contender. Rating: 6.5
F - Juan Pablo Angel: A quiet first half turned into an active second half for Ángel. Well-taken penalty kick overshadows his constant dangerous play in the final 45 minutes. Rating: 7
Substitutions
D - Mike Petke: Came into the match for the injured Talley and performed very well. Won his battles and wasn’t beaten. His efforts shored up the back line with Ream. Rating: 6.5
M - Carl Robinson: A good second-half roll on the field for “Robbo,” who did lots of dirty work in clamping down the middle. Looked fit despite missing matches due to the passing of his father. Rating: 6
F - Salou Ibrahim: Came into a match with a lead to help win balls and maintain possession. He won’t get much credit for it, but he did an acceptable job. Rating: 6
Kristian R. Dyer can be reached for comment at KristianRDyer@yahoo.com and followed at twitter.com/kdyer1012
