The New York Red Bulls and New England Revolution will face off Saturday at 7:30 PM for the second time this season in what will be another heated Eastern Conference battle.
In the previous meeting this season, the Red Bulls scored a season-high four goals and allowed only one (and an own-goal, at that) in a convincing win at Red Bull Arena. Now, as the Red Bulls head north to take on New England, they’ll look to snag a ‘W’ on the road in an effort to extend their current win streak to five straight.
After starting the season 0-3 in road games, the Red Bulls have reversed the outcomes in recent matches and improved to an overall road record of 3-3. Factor in New York’s four-straight wins and top spot in the East off a 20-point, 6-4-2 record, and it would appear momentum is in the Red Bulls’ corner.
NY vs. NE Preview
“I’m extremely proud, you know? That’s the one thing I’m the most proud of – their ability to grind their teeth, roll their sleeves up, and get a result,” said Red Bulls Head Coach Mike Petke. “It hasn’t been the prettiest at times, but I could care less at this point. Four games in a row, getting a result, very proud of the effort that’s put in. They’re working for each other, which is huge for me.”
Defense, as much as offense, has been the story of the game for the Red Bulls. In addition to boasting a league-best 18 Goals For, the defense has also tightened up and allowed only four goals over the last six matches. While New England’s offense may not produce the most on paper, it’s assuring to know New York’s back line is finding a groove as the club sits only five games away from the midway point of the schedule.
“Any time you have the guys, specifically the two blocks of defense and midfield get in good positions, put their work in, be very stingy, give up possession sometimes, let the other team have a bit of possession as long as they’re not penetrating us, specifically not in the middle, and that’s what we’ve accomplished,” Petke said. “And we’ve had some very good action defensively on the wings as well when we do push them to the outside, defending one-on-one, so I’m very happy with the way that we’re doing it.”
New York and New England kick off Saturday at 7:30 PM on MSG. Watch all the action live, starting with the 7:00 PM pre-game show, or join us at the Official Red Bulls Viewing Party at Villain in Brooklyn. More info, along with a full list of upcoming viewing parties, is available on our Pub Partners page.
