The New York Red Bulls took the field for the first time in 17 days on Friday night, earning a 3-1 victory over the Chicago Fire at Red Bull Arena.
The Red Bulls came out firing despite the long layoff, with Kaku capitalizing on a mistake by Chicago goalkeeper Kenneth Kronholm and slotting the ball into an open net in the 8th minute.
“The first time he cut the ball back, and I fell for it,” Kaku said via translator. “The second one, I predicted that he was going to do that, and I was able to get the goal. I think at home, we are very strong and to continue on with this streak is going to be very important for the second part of the season.”
Danny Royer, who assisted on the game-winner and added an insurance goal in stoppage time, echoed his teammate on the importance of getting back to winning ways after the break.
“It was very important,” Royer said. “It was a long break for us. I think everybody used the time the right way to recover physically. I think we had a great week of training. Everybody was ready for the game. I think we played with a lot of energy today. We got in trouble, definitely, but we all stuck together and got three points. That’s the most important thing.”
The win signals the start of the second half of the season. New York has now played half of its MLS regular season games, and games will continue to come quickly over the busy Summer months. The team will travel to Houston on Tuesday for a Wednesday night match and will be in Atlanta next Sunday to complete a three-game week.
“Right now, you want to soak it up and enjoy the three points,” Luis Robles said. “Winning is difficult and it’s a feeling that never gets old. As we sit in this locker room and we have a great result for us today, the three points and the victory, it all feels really nice. But tomorrow, it’s back to the classroom.”
