We’re well into the summer months, but a new season of sorts is just getting started. On Wednesday night, the New York Red Bulls kicked off their 2016/17 Scotiabank CONCACAF Champions League campaign, taking part in the competition for the third time in franchise history.
First up for New York, a visit from debutants Antigua GFC.
It didn’t take long for these two sides to get after it, as the visitors nearly struck the opener off a dangerous free kick. Ryan Meara, making his fifth straight SCCL start, had other ideas.
On the other end, the Red Bulls took advantage of yet another set piece. With Sacha Kljestan on the bench, Homegrown midfielder Sean Davis whipped in a dangerous ball that found its way into the back of the net.
A back and forth affair saw both sides threaten within seconds of each other, as Alex Muyl slammed one off the crossbar before Antigua carved out their best chance of the night.
Agustín Herrera looked poised to even the match on a clear breakaway, but without fail, Meara stood tall to pull off a miraculous save.
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About midway through the first half, Antigua see their side reduced to 10 men after Sixto Betancourt caught Felipe with a high boot.
Ouch.
With the man advantage, New York pushed to extend their lead and put the tie out of reach. The likes of Gonzalo Veron and Muyl came close several times, only to be denied by the woodwork. But the second half finally saw their efforts rewarded as the Manhattan native doubled the Red Bulls’ advantage.
Peace, fam.
Plenty of first-team regulars got some much-needed rest, but Kljestan still managed to put his imprint on the game, scoring game’s third goal with just over ten minutes to play. A nice combination play with Veron sealed the deal to give New York its second-ever SCCL win.
Tic. Tac. Toe.
The match also signaled a first-team debut for Homegrown winger Derrick Etienne Jr., who entered the match in the 70th minute.
It looked like a dream debut for the 19-year-old as he raced into the area, but saw his effort cruelly denied by the post.
Thaaaaaaat close for the “Haitian Messi,” as the South Ward has now deemed him.
So 3-0 it ended at Red Bull Arena, as the guys sent their faithful supporters home happy.
See you in LA!
