Match Preview: NYRB II Welcome Tampa Bay for Eastern Conference Showdown

Loebe vs. MEM

HARRISON, N.J. (July 25, 2019)- New York Red Bulls II will return home to host the Eastern Conference leading Tampa Bay Rowdies on July 26, with kick-off set for 7 p.m. ET. The match can be seen live on ESPN +.


NYRB II is coming off a 2-2 draw on the road against Memphis 901 FC. NYRBII got the scoring started early in the 10th minute when Chris Lema crossed in a ball to Jordan Scarlett, who headed home a close range attempt, for the first goal of his career. NYRBII added another goal in the 44th minute when Vincent Bezecourt cleaned up a loose ball in front of goal for his first goal of the season. However, early in the second half Memphis’ Brandon Allen was able to get one back with a 48th minute goal. He then completed the brace with another goal in the 87th minute to level the match and earn a point for both sides.


This will be the second time these two teams have met this season. In the first meeting, NYRBII was shutout on the road 2-0, with Juan Tejada recording a brace to help the Rowdies secure three points at home.


The Tampa Bay Rowdies defeated Saint Louis FC 4-1 at home their last time out. The Rowdies have picked up at least one point in their past six matches, having taken all three points from four of them dating back to June 15. Sebastián Guenzatti leads the Rowdies with 12 goals on the season in 20 appearances.


Following Friday night’s match, NYRBII will host Saint Louis FC at MSU Soccer Park on August 2, with kick-off set for 7 p.m. ET.