As part of the joint effort we all have in fighting against the Coronavirus, please consider:

1. It is imperative that all activities outlined are conducted in-line with local government and CDC Guidelines.
2. The health and safety of each individual player takes precedent over these training plans.
3. Many local governments have closed down public parks and gyms; therefore, the activities have been designed for at-home implementation.
4. To minimize exposure, the exercises should be done individually. We are not recommending small group or partnered training activities.
5. As a reminder to our previous communications, if you think you have been exposed to COVID-19 and develop symptoms – which the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) describe as fever, cough, or difficulty breathing – call your healthcare provider for medical advice.
6. For more information on COVID-19 prevention, click here.

Physical

Game Understanding

On Sunday November 8th the Red Bulls finished the regular season with a 2-1 win over our noisy northern neighbors, Toronto FC.

Behind goal-scorers Tom Barlow and Brian White, the name you probably heard more than any other was likely Kyle Duncan. Throughout this game, Duncan was a consistent offensive presence and was often seen pushing forward to support the attack. However as a fullback, Duncan has to be smart about when he decides to push forward into the attack and when he decides to stay back and play more defensive. In today’s game understanding, we’ll analyze the following moments to figure out how Duncan decides to go or stay.

Watch the following moments and answer the four questions below for each.

00:20-00:32
04:37-04:45
07:10-07:20
07:24-07:28

1. Does Duncan stay or go?
2. Where do the Red Bulls have the ball (Defending third, midfield third or attacking third)?
3. Before Duncan gets involved in the play, what direction is the ball traveling (Backwards, forwards, sideways/diagonal)?
4. Is there a Toronto player that Duncan needs to worry about in case the Red Bulls lose the ball?

Based on your answers above, what do you think is the best situation for Kyle Duncan to push forward into the attack?

Answer Key

2. Attacking or midfield third (Further away from RBNY goal/closer to Toronto’s goal).
3. A backwards or sideways pass (This signals comfortable possession and gives Duncan time to push forward to support the attack).
4. Duncan has to consider the possibility of RBNY losing the ball and make sure he doesn't leave a Toronto player in a dangerous position if that happens.