U15 COMEBACK FALLS SHORT IN REGIONAL SEMIFINALS

In the semifinals of the US Youth Soccer Region I Championships, the Red Bull U15s dropped a 3-2 decision to the Boston Blast (Massachusetts) U15s this afternoon in Maine. After falling behind 2-0 at the interval and 3-0 in the second half, the Red Bulls mounted a spirited comeback, with John Agudelo and James Raytsin scoring goals to pull within one. The Red Bulls could not complete the comeback, but head coach Stan Lembryk was pleased with his side's performance in the tournament, stating, "The team continued to work as young pros to cut the lead to one. However, unfortunately it was not enough."

Group stage wins over EPIC Blast (West Virginia) 9-0 and Hockessin SC Cyclones (Delaware) 5-0 set up a match with Eastern PA representative, Brandywine United Galaxy to determine the Group C winner and the groups spot in the semifinals. The Red Bulls produced a 1-0 win to advance.

ANGEL TRAINS; GILKERSON AND SCHRAMM SHINE ON WEEKEND LOAN

RBR attended today's training session before the team left for Maryland and its US Open Cup match with Crystal Palace Baltimore.

Juan Pablo Angel fully participated in the training session, which a a great sign as he rehabs his injury and makes his way back to the pitch.

In other news, in an attempt to get some of their reserves more game action, the Red Bulls loaned out John Gilkerson and Ricky Schramm to the Richmond Kickers for the weekend. On Saturday, Gilkerson featured at midfield and played the full 90 in a 0-0 draw with the Cleveland City Stars. On Sunday it was Ricky's turn to feature at midfield, as he played the full 90 for his former club and scored the first goal in a 3-1 win over the Pittsburgh Riverhounds. Gilkerson played 10 minutes off the bench.

'CAUSE THIS IS THRILLER, THRILLER NIGHT

You might not have seen it on Saturday night, but Dave van den Bergh did a special goal celebration following his free kick marker against Chivas USA. The picture above only begins to scratch the surface...

Red Bull Director of Team Operations Shaun Oliver kicks off the pregame locker room music with the same song at all road games. That song is Thriller, by the King of Pop, Michael Jackson. The song is a favorite among the team, and Oliver asked that someone (notably Dave or John Wolyniec) imitate the dance the next time he scored. It took some time, but Dave got his "Thriller on" against the Goats, earning some praise from Oliver, though Oliver did give a critical critique of Dave's interpretation.

And in case you ever wanted to see Thriller performed by inmates at a prison in the Phillipines, take a look at the video below (who draws the short straw to play the woman in this reprisal?):

RED BULL U15S PLAY FOR SPOT IN REGIONAL SEMIS TODAY

After impressive wins in their first two matches of Group C play at the 2008 US Youth Soccer Region I Championships in Maine, the Red Bull U15s play the Eastern PA representative, Brandywine United Galaxy. The Red Bulls defeated EPIC Blast (West Virginia) 9-0 and Hockessin SC Cyclones (Delaware) 5-0 heading into today's match with Brandywine United Galaxy. Both teams have earned the maximum six points and the winner of the match will advance to the Regional Semifinals on Monday. The two sides kick off at 1:15 p.m.

RED BULLS 1, CHIVAS USA 1 - POST-MORTEM

If you saw the score on paper, a 1-1 draw at The Home Depot Center against Chivas USA during this long road trip would not necessarily have been a negative result. However, with the way New York controlled the first half and conceded their goal seconds before halftime, there was understandable disappointment in the locker room post-game.

Head coach Juan Carlos Osorio on the result:


Osorio on using Dane Richards more:


Midfielder Dane Richards on the game:


Goalscorer Dave van den Bergh on the game:


Quick turnaround for the Red Bulls as the team travels back home tomorrow, returning in the early evening. On Monday, the squad will head down to Annapolis in preparation for their U.S. Open Cup Third Round showdown against Crystal Palace Baltimore on Tuesday. Returning the night of the game, the Red Bulls train in New Jersey Wednesday before flying out Thursday to Denver for their regular season clash against the Colorado Rapids. Whew.

Leave your thoughts on the game in the comments section.

RED BULLS vs. CHIVAS USA LINEUPS

Good evening from The Home Depot Center as the Red Bulls take on Chivas USA tonight. It's a beautiful, cool night for soccer as the Red Bulls hope to reel off their second-straight MLS win. Here are the lineups:

New York Red Bulls: Jon Conway (GK), Kevin Goldthwaite, Andrew Boyens, Jeff Parke, Hunter Freeman, Sinisa Ubiparipovic, Carlos Mendes, Seth Stammler, Dave van den Bergh, Dane Richards, John Wolyniec

Subs: Zach Thornton (GK), Luke Sassano, Chris Leitch, Mike Magee, Chris Megaloudis, Oscar Echeverry, Danleigh Borman

Chivas USA: Brad Guzan (GK), Jonathan Bornstein, Claudio Suarez, Jim Curtin, Bobby Burling, Francisco Mendoza, Carey Talley, Jesse Marsch, Sacha Kljestan, Justin Braun, Ante Razov

Subs: Dan Kennedy (GK), Shavar Thomas, Raphael Wicky, Jorge Flores, Daniel Paladini, Atiba Harris, Anthony Hamilton

As always, leave your pre-game and in-game thoughts here and catch the match on MSG or HDNet starting at 10:30 PM ET!

CALIFORNICATION

The Red Bulls are in the City of Angels, home of Kobe, Tupac and In-N-Out Burger (which RBR wolfed down Thursday night). In Phoenix, the team went through a regeneration session in the pool Thursday before taking the hour and a half trip to LA. The team then trained yesterday afternoon in the much cooler conditions at The Home Depot Center, practicing set pieces and scouting Chivas USA before today’s match.

Forward Juan Pablo Angel and midfielder Claudio Reyna are not with the team as we prepare for Chivas USA tonight at 10:30 PM ET (TV: MSG, HDNet Radio: WADO).

Here are some pre-match thoughts from Coach Osorio.

On whether the team was banged up from the Chivas Guadalajara game:


On Sinisa Ubiparipovic’s play:


On how fresh the team is during this road trip:


We’ll leave you with a trivia question from the Real Salt Lake Media Guide.

Question: Real Salt Lake’s mascot is a lion named Leonardo. What is his favorite meal of the day?

Answer: Chivas USA Goat. Mmmm.

VENUE CHANGE FOR US OPEN CUP MATCH ANNOUNCED

Due to a facility conflict, the venue for the Red Bulls vs. Crystal Palace Baltimore US Open Cup match has been changed. The Third Round match will now be played at Lawrence E. Knight Stadium, on the grounds of Broadneck High School in Annapolis, MD. Venue information and ticket information can be found by CLICKING HERE.

SHOWDOWN IN CHINATOWN

Above photo courtesy of This Is American Soccer

The stars were out for the Showdown in Chinatown yesterday, but for RBR and the rest of the Red Bulls front office, we wanted to check out the exploits of one of our own, Senior Account Executive Mike Quarino, who played keeper for the Blue Team.

The very beginning of this video shows Q coming off his line to make a great save:


He might not be as proud of this moment, as Henry nearly takes his head off on a PK:


Former Red Bull Ronald Wattereus was supposed to play for the Blue Team, but he was unable to attend, thrusting Mike into a starting role. He told RBR that he has played in some pickup games with Nash in the past, as the two met when Nash trained with the Red Bulls prior to New York's friendly with Barcelona in August of 2006.

According to Q, he was most impressed with the play of Robbie Fowler and Henry, he thought Jason Kidd was better than he thought in terms of his soccer skills, and Baron Davis was by far the most entertaining.

Q also thought that the crowd was awesome, with people climbing on fences, vans, trees, and streetlights to get a view of the pitch, creating an amazing atmosphere.

Here is more video of the event:

BULLS-CD GUADALAJARA POST-GAME

Good result for the Red Bulls, who travel tomorrow to Los Angeles in preparation for their match against Chivas USA. Here is some post-game reaction:

New York Red Bulls head coach Juan Carlos Osorio

On the game:
First of all, we’re very pleased with the result. The guys played really well, especially in the first half. We had a plan and the plan was to start with a strong starting line and then in the second half, give a chance to everybody. Maybe the quality dropped a little bit, but we still battled and competed against them very well and limited them to very few chances. In the first half, I think we did enough to probably did enough to increase the scoreline and I think in the end, great individual performances, great commitment, great effort from the guys playing against a top opponent. So, I’m very pleased with the result and the performance.

On the goal:
Sinisa (Ubiparipovic) is very capable of seeing a pass and executing it and Oscar (Echeverry) just put away. In general, I think that it was a very good reward for Oscar for all of his hard work, putting his injury aside and battling back into the team. I’m very pleased for him.

On building momentum to Saturday’s match against Chivas USA:
It is a good boost of confidence for the team. I think we have been competing really well and performing really well lately so great result for the guys and the locker room is very pleased and happy.

New York Red Bulls midfielder Sinisa Ubiparipovic

On Oscar Echeverry’s goal:
I made the run for Hunter and I saw him receive the ball. I ran towards the open space and made the run, got to the ball, crossed the ball back to Oscar … and he finished it off well.

On playing at the University of Phoenix Stadium:
I think the stadium is unbelievable. As we all know, it’s one of the best stadiums in the country if not the best. The grass is magnificent and the stadium itself is great.

New York Red Bulls defender John Gilkerson

On making his first team debut:
It’s big. I’ve been waiting for this for a long time. I didn’t think it would come this soon but I thank Coach for letting me have the opportunity to let me in there and it was great to get a game under my belt. Even though it wasn’t an MLS game, it was still my first professional game. It was good to be out there, good atmosphere, good fans.

On the physicality of the game:
I knew that they would come out and be physical. No matter the circumstances, a game is a game but it did get a little bit out of hand a little bit, but that’s what happens when you’re in the heat of the battle.

New York Red Bulls midfielder Gordon Kljestan

On recently signing with the Red Bulls:
I was thrilled once I found out they were offering me a contract. It was a dream come true because I played at Seton Hall and I always followed the Red Bulls. As a kid, the Galaxy was my team and then slowly, the Red Bulls became my team so I was happy (when I signed).

We'll talk to you in LA LA land!

RED BULLS-CD GUADALAJARA

We're here at the beautiful University of Phoenix Stadium where the Red Bulls will be taking on Chivas de Guadalajara. Here is the lineup for the Red Bulls:

---------------Echeverry----------------------Richards---------------


--------------------------Ubiparipovic-------------------------------


van den Bergh------------------------------------------------Stammler


-----------------------------Mendes----------------------------------


Gilkerson-----------Parke---------------Boyens----------------Freeman


-----------------------------Thornton--------------------------------

Unlimited subs tonight so it looks like everyone will be able to see some sort of action. Kevin Goldthwaite was not included in the squad tonight as he still has tight hamstrings. With Goldthwaite out, rookie John Gilkerson slips into the starting lineup for his first start.

Chivas Lineup: Vergara (GK), Avila, de los Santo, H. Lopez, Solis, Mejia, Esparza, Morales, Hernandez, Salazar

We'll be running back and forth doing a live commentary and trying to get Match Tracker on our site to work. Watch live on TeleFutura or follow the action here and feel free to give us your pre-game and in-game thoughts!

FINAL: Red Bulls 1, Chivas 0. We'll have some post-game reaction soon.

87': Nava puts a low left-footed shot on net but Thornton is there to knock it away. Schramm on for Gilkerson, who looks like he picked up a knock.

81': Sassano was through on goal off a Wolyniec pass but good play by Esparza to deflect his shot. Wolyniec off for Megaloudis.

67': Roth in for Borman... moments earlier, Morales hit a free kick into the arms of Thornton.

63': Esparza is free on the right side of the penalty box after a good through ball but he pulls his shot wide left.

57': Nothing much happening as both teams trying to keep possession until a minute later, the Chivas right winger breaks through on the right side of the box, but Parke is there to slide it away.

46': Second half kicks off and Red Bulls make five subs: Sassano for van den Bergh, Kljestan for Mendes, Wolyniec for Echeverry, Leitch for Freeman, Magee for Ubiparipovic

HALFTIME: Red Bulls kept possession in this tempestuous affair and deserved to go in front. Chivas with a couple of chances but nothing to really trouble Zach Thornton.

43': Red Cads issued to Solis and Stammler. It seems that after a Red Bulls foul, there was a scuffle and both players were kicked out. A minute later, Gilkerson and Hernandez went for the ball and hit each others' heads.

38': Chivas hasn't been able to do much this game. Another Chivas corner cleared away by the Red Bulls.

35: Borman for Richards. First sub of the game.

22: Red Bulls goal!!!!!! Sinisa made himself free on the right wing before running to the touchline and slotting the ball back to a wide-open Echeverry, who put it in. 1-0 Red Bulls.

22: Yellow card issued to a Chivas player.

18: Echeverry again gets free, ths time on the right side of the box and he puts the ball over the bar.

4: Echeverry gets released on the left side of the penalty box and pokes a shot that goes through the legs of the 'keeper but is cleared off the line by Antonio de los Santos.

RED BULLS SIGN KLJESTAN; WAIVE MESA

In a move to try and help provide roster depth and versatility with the rash of injuries the team has suffered this season, RBNY announced today that it has signed midfielder Gordon Kljestan and waived Kevin Mesa. While this is certainly not a groundbreaking move, it does provide the team with more experience (and pedigree, as Gordon is the brother of Chivas USA's Sacha). Gordon has been on trial with the team for a few weeks, and has played in a few reserve matches as well.

What are your thoughts on the signing? This move certainly does not impact Juan Carlos Osorio's bigger-name targets, as Mesa was a developmental player and Gordon is taking that spot on the roster.

US OPEN CUP OPPONENT SET

The Red Bulls enter the US Open Cup in the third round, and their opponent was determined last night. By virtue of their penalty kick win over the Harrisburg City Islanders, Crystal Palace Baltimore will host New York on Tuesday, July 1 for a spot in the quarterfinals.

Crystal Palace's 3-1 PK shootout win came after the two sides played to a 2-2 score though extra time.

Harrisburg goalkeeper Danny Cepero, on loan from the Red Bulls, missed the match due to a quadriceps injury.

The matchup with Crystal Palace will take place at UMBC Stadium, and is slated to begin at 7:30 p.m. Baltimore, a USL-2 side, is currently in third place in the USL-2 table, with a 6-3-1 (19 points) record. CPB advanced to the second round with a 2-1 road win over the LA Legends, a PDL side.

RACKERS KICKS IT AROUND

Number 1 on the University of Phoenix Stadium field Tuesday wasn't Danny Cepero (he's on loan at Harrisburg in USL Division 2), but Arizona Cardinals placekicker Neil Rackers, who was invited to train with the Red Bulls.

Rackers is not a stranger to soccer. In high school at Aquinas-Mercy in St. Louis, Rackers led his team to two-straight State titles as a forward. Red Bulls head coach Juan Carlos Osorio left Rackers on the field for almost the entire practice. Here's what heavy-breathing Rackers had to say about his experience:

DRY HEAT MY ....

Red Bulls Reader comes to you from Glendale, AZ, as we're watching our team train at the beautiful University of Phoenix Stadium. We recommend that you are ever in this area, you have to make a visit here (though, for whoever told RBR that 115 degrees in Arizona is just "dry heat", he thinks you're all full of you know what).

Arizona Cardinals placekicker Neil Rackers is doing warm-ups with the team (more on him later) but the practice's intensity is still the same as we prepare to play Chivas de Guadalajara tomorrow night at 11 PM ET (8 PM here). Watch it on TeleFutura.

The team was delayed for three-plus hours due to thunderstorms in the NY-NJ area before finally getting to the Phoenix area late last night. However, everyone is in good spirits. Here are a couple of excerpts from today's Red Bulls-Chivas press conference today:

Seth Stammler
On the game:
It’s great to be in Phoenix. The team is really excited to come down here for the game, especially to play a team like Chivas which has such a storied history. I think it’s an honor just to test ourselves to see where we stand against some of the top players internationally.

Dave van den Bergh
On playing Chivas de Guadalajara:
It’s going to be fun. It’s going to be a friendly and we have to treat it as such. It’s a great team, great honor to play against them. It’s a good opportunity to measure ourselves. For them, it’s preseason so they’re going to be trying some things out and getting their fitness in.

On the University of Phoenix Stadium:
It can’t get much better than this. It’s a beautiful stadium, the stadium looks beautiful and I’m just hoping we could get a good crowd out for tomorrow.

More on this trip, with photos, later....

YOU SUPPLIED THE QUESTIONS, ERIK STOVER PROVIDED THE ANSWERS

A short time ago, Red Bulls Reader posted a partial transcript of the round table discussion new Managing Director Erik Stover had with the local media. At that point, RBR asked for your questions. Well, here are your answers…

Miguel asks: Since next year the Red Bulls will have to play the first half of the season at Giants Stadium I propose that a natural grass surface be installed (so the game can be played as it was meant to be). What do you say, can you make it happen?

No, and not because we wouldn’t consider it but because of the use of that facility. The reason it is field turf is they have concerts coming in; they have trade shows, all kinds of other things being done there. I lived through the attempt of making grass work there, and it costs $9 million over three years and it was the worst field that anyone has ever seen. Under the circumstances, it was actually a worst-case scenario for our players.

Alan asks: I see lots of TV commercials for Red Bull sponsored events like Flugtag, car racing and Soapbox car racing. Why is there no investment in advertising the soccer team on TV?

We invested a significant amount of money in advertising, it just wasn’t TV based. A lot of people identify with television more readily, but there is Internet, there are billboards, there is bus signage, there is radio, the list goes on and on. We spent probably more than any other team in Major League Soccer on advertising in market. It was very expensive to put up those Juan Pablo and Jozy billboards up in New York City at the tunnels. That’s the kind of media buy that has never been done in Major League Soccer before.

T. Faust asks: Why are you the right person for Managing Director of the club? Your experience seems perfect for a Director of Stadium Operations. What relevant experience do you have for everything else a general manager does?

I think the most important thing that we are doing is building the stadium and training grounds. To lure fans back to our events we have to do everything right the first time. There are a lot of questions … well; he worked at Giants Stadium so he’s just going to duplicate the problems. What working at Giants Stadium allowed me to see is what the problems were. I understand why those problems existed in that facility and what we tried to do to correct them. I also know, having worked in San Diego in a very different market with very different circumstances, saw how different things can be effective. Because I have over eight years of stadium operations experience, we can deliver on those expectations for customer service. The other part of it is I think there is a misconception of what this job is. It goes back to leadership and sharing of vision and management, and letting the experts do what they are paid to do. As far as my skill set, everything that you need to have in this job, I’ve done before, whether it’s negotiations, personnel management or leases and contracts. It’s taking those skills, understanding your goals and objectives and making sure that those two things line up perfectly and that the job gets done.

Tim asks: What experiences can you take from your nine years at NJSEA and how will you apply them at Red Bull Park?

I know we need to be more flexible with how we treat our fans. Soccer is a different sport. We want a European-type atmosphere at our facility. The problem at the Meadowlands is that you have so many buildings and so many different organizations and it’s hard to have roles that apply across the board. What ends up happening is that you have very little tolerance for the gray areas. We’re going to own the building, we’re going to operate the building and the people there are going to be our season-ticket holders. We’re going to have control over all of those aspects. We understand very clearly that the experience that our fans have at the Meadowlands is not what they want to have at the new building. We’ll be doing a lot of focus groups so we don’t miss any of those points because we can learn a lot from our fans.

Dave asks: You have said that the new stadium will be the best way to attract new fans. Will there be a stronger marketing effort to make people in the area aware of the new stadium?

It’s so integrated into our business model, it has to be up-front. I think everything will improve. As the stadium comes on, everything we do will improve. We’ll have a new website for the stadium. We’ll have a new training facility, which not only will be high-quality for our first team and academy but it will also be grassroots marketing for everything we are trying to accomplish in raising the awareness of soccer in the New York metropolitan area. Everything we do will be tied into those two facilities and our overall business objectives.

Dan asks: Do you think not having a background in football will adversely affect your ability to evaluate players, if say Juan Carlos & Jeff Agoos are offering differing opinions of the same player? And how would you potentially handle such a situation?
T. Faust asks: You say you are very hands on about player decisions. Why? What is it about your background in stadium operations that makes your voice valuable in this area?

We have a lot of resources at our disposal. We have a global effort to develop soccer worldwide. I think first of all, Jeff and Juan Carlos work extremely well together. If for some reason there is an unlikely scenario there is a line drawn in the sand over what particular player to be brought in, we’d rely on those different scouts, player personnel people and sporting directors we have at our disposal to help make the right decision. As in all business decisions we make, we are operating with a unifying command approach and at the end of the day we will come to a decision everyone is comfortable with. There will be players that we will miss on. There will be players that we will be perfect on. That’s just part of the business.

Alan asks: Why does there seem to be little to no co-operation between RBNY and RB Salzburg? Specifically when it comes to player loans and signings.

I think first of all that is something we have to manage on the sporting side. (Head coach) Juan Carlos and (sporting director) Jeff Agoos will manage that on a day-to-day basis. There is a misconception in there. Some of that appearance of lack of cooperation was based on speculation. I know that there are always discussions going on back and forth, but the player they might have available to loan may not fit in our roster, or a player like Jozy, where they may consider purchasing him, he didn’t necessarily fit in with their roster. There certainly isn’t a lack of cooperation. We are sister organizations, but you also have to put in Major League Soccer rules into consideration there too. You can’t just transfer players and have it not impact the salary cap.

Tim asks: Besides timing, will the Red Bull Park (RBP) design and build out change in any way from the expectations that have already been conveyed to fans (e.g., grass field – no turf; seating surrounding entire field, i.e., not 3/4 around; stadium ambiance conducive to loud/pro-home team support; seating section fully covered overhead; no gridiron football lines; similar to Salzburg stadium, etc.)

All of that was brought to the table when Red Bull bought this team. It has everything to do with making a world class soccer experience on game day. Most of those things required extensive, much higher capital investment in the project, and that I think shows the commitment to doing things the right way.

REAL LIFE: SECAUCUS PREMIER - THE TOUR

After meeting this year's charismatic rookie class, Red Bulls Reader decided to start an online series with three of them. We present the first episode of Real Life: Secaucus, with rookies David Roth, Danleigh Borman and Luke Sassano, who all live in the same house in Secaucus, NJ. It's an odd triplet of sorts: one is from South Africa, another from California and the third straight from the midwest. For the rest of the season, we wanted to chronicle parts of their off-the-field lives and we start with a tour of their pad. We hope you enjoy it and please give us feedback on what you think!

RED BULLS HIGH SCHOOL CUP: A LOOK BACK

Players and coaches arrived at Giants Stadium on Friday afternoon for the second-annual High School Cup presented by adidas for a training session, where they got acquainted with not only an 80,000-seat facility, but also their fresh-faced teammates. The event, which pits New Jersey and New York's premier high school talent against one another, followed the Red Bulls' tilt with FC Dallas.

Following the players' two-hour session, RBR caught up with two from each side and discussed what their first training session was like at Giants Stadium, the atmosphere of a professional facility, the experience of entering the Red Bulls' locker room, how any tactical preparation is difficult because of unfamiliar faces as teammates and how this game represents a culmination to a chapter in these players' soccer novel.

Manny Caicedo (M - Clifton, NJ) on the atmosphere of the Giants Stadium locker room:


Marlon Letlow (D - Roosevelt, NY) on the training session on Friday:


Alan Bernstein (GK - Wayne Hills, NJ) on his impression on playing at Giants Stadium:


Pat Cantwell (D - West Islip, NY) comparing Giants Stadium to his high school facility:

Sporting Director Jeff Agoos addresses the players and coaches


Head Coach Juan Carlos Osorio gives the players some advice

A dinner reception followed, where Cup participants were greeted by Sporting Director Jeff Agoos and Red Bulls head coach Juan Carlos Osorio. Both addressed the graduating seniors, and the message was simple: Local talent is important. Red Bulls players were scattered, dining with players and coaches.


Kevin Goldthwaite chats with some
of the High School Cup participants

ANOTHER GOAL OF THE WEEK NOMINATION

Seth's skillful goal at New England helped the Red Bulls take a point home from Gillette Stadium, and is a nominee for the Sierra Mist Goal of the Week. It looks like Gonzalo Martinez's blast is the front runner (probably deservedly so), but why not show some love to the man who has worn the captain's arm band of late?

VOTE HERE to cast your ballot.

Here is video of the nominees:

RED BULLS VS. FC DALLAS: POSTGAME

A good home result for the Red Bulls, who are still without the services of both of their Designated Players. A nice set piece goal from Kevin Goldthwaite was the difference. Jon Conway came up with the big save when called upon to preserve the clean sheet. The team strung together passes well and did not allow Dallas to play with space.

Sinisa Ubiparipovic post match:


Dane Richards post match:


Kevin Goldthwaite post match:


Juan Carlos Osorio post match:


Who was the Man of the Match? Who was the Unsung Hero? How important was it to get this win at home during a long stretch of road matches? Do you think the team is rounding into form in terms of keeping possession and pressuring the other team on defense? What are your thoughts on the match?

RED BULLS VS. FC DALLAS: RUNNING COMMENTARY

90+th minute: GAME OVER. 1-0 Red Bulls. New York improves to 4-1-2 at home and 5-4-4 (19 points) overall). Check back later for post match video.

90th minute: 2 minutes of added time.

88th minute: New York is holding possession well in the closing minutes.

82nd minute: FCD sub: McCarty for Rocha

81st minute: NY is still looking to attack on offense, pushing for the killer goal rather than sitting back.

79th minute: NY sub: Sassano for Magee

77th minute: Wolyniec gets his head on a VDB cross, but its right at Sala. A great chance but more frustration for Wolyniec in terms of putting one away.

73rd minute: FCD sub: Alvarez for Rhine

69th minute: Yellow card on Parke.

68th minute: Rocha gets in alone on Conway after a defensive breakdown but Conway gets big and deflects it out.

64th minute: FCD sub: Thompson for Oduro.

62nd minute: Yellow to Pitchkolan. Wolyniec for Echeverry for New York.

57th minute: Richards can't turn on a ball in the box and is dispossessed.

54th minute: Magee gets the ball on the back post, but can't get enough on the shot to make it dangerous.

54th minute: Corner kick for NY off a nice buildup.

52nd minute: So far much of the same in the second half.

46th minute: Second half underway. Doesn't look like there are changes for either side.

HALFTIME: NY posted a 9-3 shot advantage in the first half, with Sinisa tallying four, including two on frame.

45th minute: HALFTIME. 1-0 New York. Would have to venture a guess that the Red Bulls have at least doubled the Hoops' shot total.

45th minute: 1 minute of stoppage time.

44th minute: The answer? Not much.

44th minute: Magee draws a foul in about 30 yards out. Let's see what the Red Bulls can do with it.

40th minute: Sinisa with another long range blast that goes just wide. He has shown that he can be dangerous tonight.

36th minute: New York has tried to play crosses into the area, but neither Echeverry nor Richards is particularly good in the air. Let's see if how the Red Bulls adjust their attack.

31st minute: A nice run by Dane Richards earns a corner. Injury update on Goldthwaite: hamstring strains on both legs.

24th minute: Looks like Goldthwaite is going to have to come out. He is being replaced by Jeff Parke. Not sure of the injury at this point.

21st minute: A nice through ball earns a corner for FCD.

18th minute: A free kick for FCD provides a good chance for Oduro, who's shot has no pace and is saved easily by Conway.

16th minute: Sinisa's inswinging corner finds Goldthwaite at the back post for the header. GOAL NEW YORK, 1-0.

16th minute: Sinisa with a nice shot that gets punched out for a corner.

15th minute: New York is challenging every possession on defense, and stinging together passes nicely on offense. Now they just need to convert them into solid scoring chances.

11th minute: The ball has been in the Red Bull offensive half nearly the entire match so far. Excellent pressure being applied by New York.

7th minute: A half volley from Sinisa goes just over. New York has been putting a lot of pressure on the ball and have caused several turnovers so far.

4th minute: VDB with a blast from 25 yards that goes high. The Red Bulls have been stressing taking open shots when they present themselves in training this week.

1st minute: And we're off. By the way, this is the first time this season that the Red Bulls have used the same starting 11 in consecutive games.

RED BULLS VS. FC DALLAS: PREGAME

PRE-GAME: Here is Dallas’ starting lineup:

------------Cooper---Oduro---------------

Rocha---Ricchetti---Saragosa---Toja---Rhine

Pitchkolan----------Davino----------Wagner

-------------------------Sala----------------------

PRE-GAME: Here is the Red Bulls’ starting lineup:

--------------------Echeverry----------------------------

----Ubiparipovic ------Magee-----------Richards----

-----------------------Stammler--------------------------

------------------------Mendes---------------------------

van den Bergh ---Boyens---Goldthwaite---Freeman

------------------------Conway--------------------------

BENCH- Thornton, Leitch, Parke, Borman, Megaloudis, Wolyniec, Sassano

Notes: Stammler will be wearing the armband as captain for the fourth time this season and for the third game in a row.

Thornton will be dressing for the first time since the Chivas USA match.

FC Dallas will be without the sevices of defender Drew Moor, who is with the USMNT in advance of the second leg of the MNT’s WC qualifying match at Barbados on Sunday. Fellow defender Adrian Serioux will also miss today’s match, as he is with Canada for its match with St. Vincent and Grenadines.

Following tonight’s match, the Red Bulls will host the Second Annual High School Cup, presented by adidas. This exclusive event brings together the top New York and New Jersey outgoing high school seniors, as both sates will battle for local bragging rights in his all-star showdown.

RED BULLS VS. FC DALLAS: PREGAME

Happy Summer Everyone!! RBR is here high up in the press box at Giants Stadium enjoying the gorgeous day as today, June 21, is the longest day (in terms of daylight hours) of the year. Hopefully it will feel like the longest day for FC Dallas as opposed to the Red Bulls.

Today is the first match for new FC Dallas head coach Schellas Hyndman, who takes over FCD after a storied career at Southern Methodist University. To see exactly how tough this man is, check out the video below (seconds 17-35). We grabbed this video from our friend SF at The Offside Rules:



RBR has also learned that the team will be wearing their blue uniforms for the match tonight. This is only the fourth time this season that the Red Bulls have worn their dark kits. One would suspect that the team would wear white at home, but after six straight games wearing white (including three road matches) the team Kit Man will get a break from keeping the whites clean. The Red Bulls are 1-1-1 in the blue shirts (loss at FC Dallas, draw at Toronto FC, and win at LA Galaxy).

RED BULLS WELCOME ENGLISH U11 CLUB SIDE ON AMERICAN TOUR

The Red Bulls will be hosting an English U11 team for the match against FC Dallas on Saturday, as the team will be in town to play some friendly matches.

The team, Oswald Road junior Football Team from the Manchester area of England, has as one of its members the son of Ian Whittell, who covers the NBA for several English newspapers. Whittell is friends with Frank Isola of the New York Daily News, who has a son on the Montclair U11 team that will play Oswald Road.

The team arrived at Newark International on Wednesday, and went to the Yankees game yesterday. Today the team will play Isola’s team before playing Downtown United at 3:30pm at Pier 40 before attending the Red Bulls match. The team returns to England on Sunday.

Oswald Road hopes to host either Montclair or Downtown United in return matches sometime in the near future, and possible take the young Americans to a Manchester United match.

Notes: The Manchester suburb where the team is from is called Chorlton and is located about one mile from Old Trafford... half of the team supports Manchester United and half support Manchester City and will have seen Claudio playing (and Osorio coaching) for City when he was there… the team’s best player, Omar Benali has just been signed to Man City's Academy (at the age of 11!) so these will be his last games playing for them.

RED BULLS AT NEW ENGLAND: POST MATCH

To emerge with a road point against New England was a great result for New York, despite holding the lead for over 75 minutes. In fact, this ends a six-match losing streak at the Revolution's home field. Seth Stammler's goal was a beauty, and Jon Conway came up with some huge stops in the second half. The result was the first at New England since May 22, 2004.

Here are some post-game sound bytes:

Head Coach Juan Carlos Osorio on playing with injured players:


Osorio on Jon Conway:


Seth Stammler on his goal:


Jon Conway on the game, his second half save:


Carlos Mendes on the game's positives and Conway's performance:


What are your thoughts on the match? Who was the Man of the Match? Who was the Unsung Hero? Do you think this result is a positive sign of things to come? How will this carry over into Saturday's match vs. FC Dallas?

RED BULLS AT NEW ENGLAND: PRE-GAME

PRE-GAME: Here is New England’s starting lineup:

------------Cristman---Dube---------------

Nyassi---Ralston---Joseph---Larentowicz---Castro

Albright-------Parkhurst-------Heaps

--------------------Reis-----------------

PRE-GAME: Here is the Red Bulls’ starting lineup:

--------------------Echeverry--------------------

van den Bergh---------Magee----------Richards

---------Ubiparipovic-----Stammler----------

Mendes---Boyens---Goldthwaite---Freeman

------------------Conway--------------------

BENCH- Patterson-Sewell, Leitch, Parke, Borman, Megaloudis, Wolyniec, Sassano

Notes: Stammler will be wearing the armband as captain for the third time this season and for the second game in a row.

Patterson-Sewell will be dressing for the third time this season.

This marks Echeverry first start since the FC Dallas game, as he returned from a knee injury last week.

Jeff Parke is out of the starting XI for the second time this season, and the first for reasons other than red card suspension.

Chris Megaloudis is among the 18 after returning from Puerto Rican national team duty. He scored a goal in the 2-2 World Cup Qualifying draw with Honduras.

This game marks the first start for Sinisa since the first four matches of the season.

Do you think this lineup can slow down the red-hot Revs? Will Echeverry provide a threat up top? Will Megaloudis see his first time on the field for the First Team? What are your thoughts about Parke not starting?

JPA ON ESPN TODAY AT 4:30

Juan Pablo Angel is slated to appear on ESPN this afternoon at 4:30 p.m. to talk about Euro 2008. Tune in to watch!!

A "MEGA" GOAL

Red Bulls forward Chris Megaloudis scored his first international goal for Puerto Rico last Saturday in the team’s 2-2 draw against Honduras in the second leg of a World Cup Qualifier in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Megaloudis, who started and earned his sixth cap for Puerto Rico, tied the game at one apiece with a goal from point-blank range. Despite the result, Honduras went through to the CONCACAF Group Stages.

On Wednesday, June 4 in San Pedro Sula, Honduras, Megaloudis played 80 minutes in Puerto Rico’s 4-0 loss against Honduras in the first leg.

Megaloudis has not played in a first team game for the Red Bulls, but has featured in three MLS Reserve Games. The former Westchester Flame and Long Island Rough Rider (PDL) was signed on April 4, 2008.

Here is some video of the goal (about 52 seconds in):

NYRB RESERVES DOUBLE UP LIRR, 2-1

The New York Red Bulls Reserves defeated the Long Island Rough Riders, a USL-1 side, 2-1, this morning at Montclair State University.

New York generated the better offensive chances in the opening half of the 70-minute match. Mike Magee and Hunter Freeman sent dangerous crosses into the area, but the Red Bulls could not find the back of the net. On the defensive end, Carlos Mendes played well on the central defense, diffusing several threats.

Chris Megaloudis got the Red Bulls on the scoreboard first, scoring an unassisted goal in the 40th minute. The striker displayed a nice step-over move before slotting the ball to the far post for a 1-0 lead.

New York doubled its lead five minutes later, as guest player Walter Rice took a nifty through ball, deked the defender, and placed the ball past the Long Island keeper.

A penalty kick in the 61st minute halved the lead, but New York did not allow the equalizer in the closing minutes.

Caleb Patterson-Sewell stopped five shots in net for the Red Bulls, including two athletic stops in the same sequence in the 51st minute.

RED BULLS AT DC UNITED: POST MATCH

Well, there really isn't much RBR can say about this one, so we will let the team do the speaking...

Juan Carlos Osorio:


Dave van den Bergh:


Dave van den Bergh:


Chris Leitch:


Are there any positives to take from this match? Is playing again quickly on Wednesday a good thing? Can the transfer window get here soon enough? Share your thoughts.

RED BULLS AT DC UNITED: PREGAME

PRE-GAME: Here is DC United’s starting lineup:

------------Emilio---Moreno---------------

Fred-----Dyachenko-----Simms-----Quaranta

Peralta----Burch----McTavish----Martinez

--------------------Wells-----------------

PRE-GAME: Here is the Red Bulls’ starting lineup:

--------------------Wolyniec--------------------

Borman-----------Sassano------------Richards

------Van Den Bergh-----Stammler----------

Goldthwaite---------------------------Leitch

-----------------Parke---Boyens-------------

------------------Conway--------------------

BENCH- Patterson-Sewell, Mendes, Freeman, Magee, Echeverry, Ubiparipovic, Mesa

Notes: Stammler will be wearing the armband as captain for the second time this season and second time in his career. He also served as captain at Houston.

Patterson-Sewell will be dressing for the second time this season. He last was among the 18 for the FC Dallas match.

This marks Wolyniec’s third start of the season. He also featured against San Jose and Houston.

Echeverry was selected for the first time since the FC Dallas game, as he injured his knee the following week in training.

DC will be without the services of Marcello Gallardo and Bryan Namoff for the match as each is serving a red card suspension.

It will be crucial in tonight’s match for the Red Bulls to limit DC’s scoring chances, as New York’s offensive options are diminished.

RED BULLS AT DC: PREGAME NOTES

Red Bulls Reader here, coming to you from RFK Stadium for tonight’s match vs. DC United. The team traveled down to our nation’s capital yesterday, whipping down the east coast on the Acela train. It is a pretty nice way to travel and is a pretty short trip.

Here are some pre-match notes:

- Claudio and Juan Pablo did not make the trip down to DC, as well as keeper Zach Thornton.

- Oscar Echeverry made the trip and will dress for the first time since injuring his knee in training over a month ago. His return could not have come at a better time with Angel out and Jozy having left for Spain.

- Here are the 18 that will dress for tonight’s match (starting 11 will be announced later): Conway, Patterson-Sewell, Goldthwaite, Boyens, Parke, Leitch, Borman, van den Bergh, Stammler, Richards, Sassano, Wolyniec, Mendes, Mesa, Echeverry, Ubiparipovic, Magee, Freeman.

- With his likely start tonight, Parke will pass Steve Jolley for sole possession of third place on the New York all-time games started list. He will trail only Tony Meola (125) and Mike Petke (129). He will also move within two of Jolley on the all-time games played list. Parke will appear in his 118th match tonight.

- Chris Megaloudis is not with the team after being called up to the Puerto Rican national team for their World Cup qualifying match against Honduras today. Puerto Rico dropped the first leg of the two leg series.

- This match also begins a stretch of five out of six MLS matches on the road, with the Chivas Guadalajara and at least one if not two US Open Cup matches mixed in, all on the road.

GAME DAY IN D.C.: AUDIO

RBR caught up with a few players earlier to get their thoughts on the match with United.

Defender Andrew Boyens:


Midfielder Dave van den Bergh:


Check back later for additional pre-match posts.

RED BULLS OPEN CUP OPPONENT POSSIBILITIES ANNOUNCED

As announced on the official site, the possible opponents for the Red Bulls' Third Round match in the US Open Cup have been announced.

The New York Red Bulls enter the tournament in the third round, and will face either the Harrisburg City Islanders (USL2) or Crystal Palace Baltimore (USL2). Red Bulls fans may recognize the goalkeeper for Harrisburg, on loan keeper Danny Cepero.

Should Harrisburg City win, the Red Bulls will play the Islanders in Landisville, PA, on July 1 at 7:05 PM. Should Crystal Palace Baltimore win, the Red Bulls will play in Cantonsville, Maryland, on July 1 at 7:35 PM. Both potential opponents are members of the United Soccer League's (USL) Second Division, the third tier of professional soccer in the United States.

KICKING IT U.S. PREMIER IS FRIDAY

Kicking It, the documentary about seven players and their journey to the Cape Town 2006 Homeless World Cup, has its United States release Friday, June 13 in New York at City Cinemas Village East (181 2nd Avenue; Box Office: (212) 529-6998).

New York Red Bull defender Kevin Goldthwaite viewed a showing at the Tribeca Film Festival and had this to say about the Colin Farrell narrated documentary directed by Susan Koch and Jeff Werner:

“I think it’s a pretty inspiring story of how soccer and football throughout the world inspires people to get on the right track in life and get the ball rolling, so to speak, in terms of their social lives to kick drugs and alcohol addiction. I saw it at the Tribeca film festival, and the audience gave it a standing ovation.”

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE TRAILER

RED BULL EXPERIMENT: KEVIN ROBINSON

MSG will telecast the “Red Bull Experiment: Kevin Robinson” live from New York City’s Central Park this Thursday, June 12 at 8:00 p.m. The one-hour special will follow BMX legend Kevin Robinson as he attempts to break the Guinness World Record for the highest air ever on a BMX bike by soaring more than 26.5 feet above the top of a 27-foot-high ramp on his bike. To get that high, he will descend a 60-foot ramp to build up the necessary speed of approximately 40 mph. If successful, Robinson would fly about 54 feet above ground, or nearly six stories high.

Robinson is a star in the action sports world, having won seven medals at the X Games, including three gold medals. He is one of only a few athletes that has competed in every X Games since the inaugural event in 1995, and since then has grown into one of the most respected action sports stars of his generation.

The Red Bull Experiment seeks to give the world’s elite athletes the opportunity to push the boundaries of what might be humanly possible, while continuing the progression of their sports to unfathomable levels. The Red Bull Experiment provides these athletes with the tools necessary to realize their dreams and put them on show for the whole world to see. In success or failure, these experiments are poised to change the way the world thinks about what is possible.

Come on out or tune in to see if Kevin can set the world record! Red Bull First Team players are scheduled to appear.

ANGEL HEADER UP FOR GOAL OF THE WEEK

Angel's game-winning header in the Red Bulls' victory over Chivas USA is up for the Sierra Mist Goal of the Week. Red Bull players have received multiple nominations this season, but have yet to take home the top honor. Maybe this is the week.

VOTE HERE

RED BULL RACING NEWS

Our brethren at Red Bull Racing had a great weekend at the Pocono 500, as Brian Vickers finished second and AJ Allmendinger placed 12th.

Vickers came in just behind Kasey Kahne, and is now in striking distance of a spot in the Chase for the Cup. For Allmendinger, is was his best ever finish.

Read about the race HERE. Or read the team's official blog HERE. The team also visited Yankee Stadium on their way down to Pocono.

RBNY PLAYERS TO COMPETE IN FOOSBALL TOURNAMENTS AT THE AUSTRIAN CULTURAL FORUM NYC

FREE BEER!!!! FOOSBALL!!! Did we mention FREE BEER?!?!?

Now that we have your attention...

To celebrate Austria's role as co-host of Euro 2008 soccer championship, the Austrian Cultural Forum NYC has commissioned an art exhibition, "Bread and Soccer: in the arena of art," as well as a series of public programs, including soccer film screenings and foosball tournaments featuring team players from the New York Red Bulls.

All of the events related to this exhibition are FREE and open to the public.

Austrian artist Monika Wührer is seeking soccer fans and foosball fans to participate in a series of free foosball tournaments. Anyone is welcome to participate, and finalists - the strong, the brave - will have the exciting opportunity to play against professional soccer players from the New York Red Bulls. Red Bull First Team players Chris Leitch and Luke Sassano will appear at the June 11 tournament.

Events include free Austrian beer, a live DJ, and announcers providing play-by-play of all the action. Trophies made by the artists will be awarded to 1st, 2nd and 3rd place teams.

Tournaments have been organized by soccer fan and artist Monika Wührer for the Austrian Cultural Forum, and are held as part of the art exhibition on the global phenomenon of soccer called Bread and Soccer.

Dates: Tuesday, June 10th; Tuesday, July 15th; and Thursday, September 4th.
Time: 7-10pm

Location:
Austrian Cultural Forum New York
11 E 52nd St
New York, NY
(just east of 5th ave)

acfny.org
breadandsoccer.com

NEW YORK RED BULL RESERVES DRAW WITH LONG ISLAND ROUGHRIDERS, 2-2

The New York Red Bull Reserves played to a 2-2 draw against the Long Island Rough Riders of the PDL this morning at Montclair State University.

Hunter Freeman opened up the scoring for the Red Bulls on a set piece, heading home a corner kick to the back post. Sinisa Ubiparipovic earned the assist on the 20th minute tally.

The score remained 1-0 in favor of New York into the second interval, until the Red Bulls doubled their lead in the 63rd minute. Chris Megaloudis took a feed from guest player Adauto Neto into space, deked the goalkeeper, and calmly slotted the ball into the back of the net.

The Rough Riders halved their deficit in the 69th minute, as guest and Red Bull U18 player Cesar Blacido found the back of the net. Long Island knotted the score at 2-2 in the 82nd minute as Michael Todd’s blast from the top of the 18 went just under the crossbar.

Caleb Patterson-Sewell tallied five saves in net for the Red Bulls. New York rookie David Roth played the second half in his first game action since sustaining a knee injury during the preseason (David showed some good agility and movement and looks nearly fully recovered from his injury. His fitness is not at 100% yet, but he is getting closer every day and was happy to get back out on the pitch for the first time since February.)

Scoring:
NYRB: Hunter Freeman (Sinisa Ubiparipovic) 20
NYRB: Chris Megaloudis (Abauto Neto) 63
LI: Cesar Blacido 69
LI: Michael Todd 82

New York Red Bulls: Caleb Patterson-Sewell (GK), John Gilkerson, Carlos Mendes, Hunter Freeman, Kevin Mesa, Sinisa Ubiparipovic, Gordon Kljestan*, Roy Castro* (Adauto Neto* 31’), John Raus* (Richie Williams* 60’), John Wolyniec (David Roth 46’), Chris Megaloudis

*-guest player

DAY OFF: RED BULL EURO PICKS

The team has the day off following their win over Chivas USA last night, but the front office is hard at work today, so why not call and buy some tickets.

RBR took a poll of the front office to get their picks for Euro 2008, which kicks off tomorrow. Of the 26 RB staffers polled, eight chose Italy to be the champion, ahead of Germany, who received five votes. The rest of the front office put their soccer faith behind the following countries:

Portugal: 4
Holland: 3
Spain: 3
Poland: 1
Czech Republic: 1
Croatia: 1

RBR also asked the front office staffers who they thought might be good dark horse candidates to take home the silverware. Austria, the home of Red Bull, was named three times, though those picks might have been made just in case Mr. Mateschitz was reading this blog, as the co-hosts are the longest odds to win the title. Russian also received three votes. A couple other dark horse sides named were Portugal, Poland, Romania, and Sweden, all selected twice.

As for RBR, we are among the popular vote with Italy emerging victorious and Russia as the dark horse. Jeers to RBR for going with the popular vote.

What are your thoughts on the tournament? Who do you think will take home the silverware? Who is a good choice as a dark horse candidate? Who will be the top goal scorer?

RED BULLS VS. CHIVAS: POST MATCH

For the second time this season, the Red Bulls played an LA based team that was on a winning streak and scoring goals on a regular basis, and earned three points with a strong defensive effort. As usual, RBR was in the locker room for post match reaction. Of note, both Angel and Richards were limping, but neither spent any lengthy time in the training room, and, in fact, had one ice bag each.

Conway Post Match:


Juan Pablo Angel Post Match:


Seth Stammler Post Match:


Juan Carlos Osorio Post Match:


What are you thoughts on the match? Who was the Man of the Match? Who was the Unsung Hero? How important was this three points with the upcoming stretch of three games in eight days and a lengthy road trip? Were you pleased with the defensive effort?

RED BULLS VS. CHIVAS RUNNING COMMENTARY

90+minute: Game over. 1-0 Red Bulls.

90+ minute: Angel looks really bad limping out there. He can't run at all.

90+ minute: NY sub: Mendes for Richards. Angel looks a little gimpy as well.

90+ minute: A dangerous cross from CHV find no one, but Richards is down on the turf near the CHV goal.

90th minute: 3 minutes of stoppage time.

86th minute: Richards again, this time with a blast that Guzan saves.

84th minute: Another nice play from Richards earns a corner.

83rd minute: Harris with shot, but Conway is there to corral it.

82nd minute: Chivas is searching for the equalizer, but the Red Bull defense is holding strong.

78th minute: Maybe I was wrong. Wolyniec finds Richards on the right flank, but he is called offsides. Osorio did not agree.

77th minute: NY sub: Sassano for Borman. Looks like the Red Bulls are going defensive to try and seal the win.

75th minute: GOAL RED BULLS!! Richards cuts a great cross to Angel, who heads it past Guzan. Leitch also gets an assist.

73rd minute: CHV earns two straight corners, but doesn't get a shot.

71st minute: Razov with a clear shot from the top of the box, but it goes over.

67th minute: Conway comes off his line to challenge, but the ball eludes him. goes wide.

66th minute: CHV sub: Hamilton for Braun

66th minute: Wolyniec dangerous right off, but his pass/shot goes wide.

65th minute: NY sub: Wolyniec for Magee

64th minute: Borman with a shot from range, but Guzan gobbles it up.

62nd minute: CHV earns a corner, but nothing serious develops.

59th minute: CHV sub: Razov for Flores.

57th minute: Braun called for offsides.

56th minute: Sorry for the lack of posts. I had to go take care of something for the club. Back now.

46th minute: Second half is underway. Doesn't look like any changes either way.

45th minute: HALFTIME.

45+ minute: Kljestan gets a free run, but Conway meets him and parries the ball away.

45th minute: Yellow card issued to Magee.

43rd minute: Mendoza finds some space in the box, but Goldthwaite is there to tackle the ball away.

42nd minute: Braun's shot is right at Conway. NY is carrying play and getting the better chances of late.

40th minute: Harris gets a yellow for a foul on Goldthwaite. Preki is not happy and is letting the fourth official know about it.

39th minute: He re-enters.

38th minute: Parke is down. He gets up limping after having his right ankle stepped on by Braun.

38th minute: A nice feed from Angel finds VDB in space, but his shot is blocked.

31st minute: Braun's shot is right at Conway. Not a challenging save.

30th minute: Marsch gets a yellow for a foul on VDB. Dave seems to have drawn a lot of yellows this season.

29th minute: Off a restart, Stammler finds Angel in the area, but can't get enough on the shot.

28th minute: Magee isn't getting the amount of touches you want your CAM to get.

25th minute: Harris gets off a shot that is blocked by Parke for a corner.

22nd minute: A shot from Flores goes side netting.

21st minute: Borman with a great cross to Richards, whose cross goes just out of Angel's reach for the first real chance of the match.

18th minute: No serious threats for either team so far as most of the game is being played in the midfield.

13th minute: Chivas is working the Red Bull defensive right often, which may be a result of the defensive left allowing then no room to do anything.

10th minute: Goldthwaite tests Guzan with an arching shot from long range, but the ball goes out.

10th minute: Parke plays a ball that Angel handles well, but the ball in knocked out of bounds.

7th minute: With no Altidore, Angel is getting a lot of attention as the lone target striker.

3rd minute: Chivas is pressuring the ball early, causing some Red Bull turnovers. It will be important for NY to control possession as they aim to end a two game skid.

1st minute: And we're off...

PRE-GAME: Some notes: Chivas trained yesterday at Sasha Kljestan's alma mater, Seton Hall University. Word is that Brad Guzan flew in today from Spain after the MNT's match yesterday. Not sure how that will effect him, if at all.

PRE-GAME: Here is the Red Bulls starting lineup:

--------------------Angel--------------------

Borman-----------Magee------------Richards

------Van Den Bergh-----Stammler----------

Goldthwaite---------------------------Leitch

-----------------Parke---Boyens-------------

------------------Conway--------------------

BENCH- Thornton, Mendes, Freeman, Sassano, Wolyniec, Ubiparipovic, Mesa

GAME DAY: RED BULLS VS. CHIVAS

The Red Bulls look to end their two-match skid tonight, as they host Chivas USA on ESPN2 as the Primetime Thursday match. Below is some audio previewing the match. Jozy's status for tonight's match has yet to be determined.

Jon Conway on the matchup:


Kevin Goldthwaite on the matchup:


Here is some video of John Harkes talking about Jozy:

RED BULLS WELCOME MAX DANIEL VAN DEN BERGH TO THE FAMILY

RBR caught up with proud poppa Dave van den Bergh at training today to get an update on the birth of his second child:

Max Daniel van den Bergh was born on June 3, 2008 at 1:18am, and came in at 8 lbs. 10 oz. Both Max and momma Alexie are resting comfortably and both hope to go home sometime today.

On the name Max: "It is something that we decided on. We wanted something that would sound the same in both languages. Max fit that and we thought it was a cool name."

On whether Dave's other son, Ryan, is excited: "Yeah, he is excited to have a playmate. Someone to play soccer with and beat up on his dad."

On whether Max is displaying left footed tendencies yet: "I have high hopes for this one. Ryan is right footed so I have high hopes."

ADIOS ALTIDORE: BUENOS SUERTE CON VILLAREAL!!

Red Bull New York announced today that Major League Soccer and 2007-08 Spanish La Liga runner-up Villarreal CF have agreed in principle to a transfer fee with Red Bulls forward Jozy Altidore. Altidore must agree to personal contract terms and undergo a physical with Villarreal before the deal can be completed.

This has been well publicized in the blog-o-sphere today with links: BigAppleSoccer.com, NY Times Goal Blog, MetroFanatic.com, MLSRumors.net, TheOffsides.Redbulls.com , SoccerInsider , SoccerByIves.net , New York Post Extra Time Blog

RBR wishes Jozy the best of luck if he works out a deal with Villareal and enters the next phase of his career in Europe. With Villareal finishing second in La Liga this season, he would have a chance to make a big name for himself against some of the best competition in the world, both in Spain and in Europe. With the USA/Argentina match at Giants Stadium on Sunday, maybe Jozy will get the call from the MNT and can display his world class talent at Giants Stadium before potentially heading to Spain.

What are you thoughts on Jozy's possible transfer? Is it good in the long run for the Red Bulls with the additional funds to sign more players and upgrade the development programs? How do you think Jozy will perform in La Liga and in the Champions League?

A DELIVERY FROM A DUTCH STORK AND A HAPPY BIRTHDAY

RBR would like to congratulate Dave van den Bergh and his wife, Alexi, on the birth of their second son last night. Word is that mother and child are resting comfortably. Dave is expected back at training Wednesday, and RBR will try and catch up with the happy fahza. Yes, fahza, since Dave is Dutch, and since that is how he is affectionately known on the team. Listen to the clip below for a nice chuckle on a gorgeous Tuesday.




Today is also the birthday of Red Bulls assistant coach Richie Williams. Happy Birthday Richie!!!! Below is a birthday greeting from RBR.

Q&A WITH MANAGING DIRECTOR ERIK STOVER

New Managing Director Erik Stover sat down with some local beat writers today to discuss his new position, the state of the team, and a number of other subject. RBR is sure you will be reading about it on the web and in the papers over the next few days, so we decided to get you a partial transcript of the Q&A session. We also decided that the writers shouldn't be the only ones that get to ask questions of the new Managing Director, so please send us your questions at NYRB@newyorkredbulls.com and we will get Erik to answer some of your questions to be posted later in the week (it will give us time to collect them, ask them, and post them). So fire away with those questions, and Erik will supply the answers.

On the global message of soccer for Red Bull:
Red Bull has a team in Salzburg, as well as our team (here in New York). They also have a developmental academy in Sao Paolo (Brazil) and Ghana as are building a new site in Fiji. That is a very aggressive approach to how they are managing their teams. The concept long term is that we are going to develop our own players whether in Northern New Jersey or New York, or out of Ghana or out of Salzburg and we are going to bring them up from a very young age and they are going to be First Team players eventually. We see that successful operation around Europe and the rest of the world, but to just buy into that as an owner and to start building that from scratch is an enormous investment and that investment should show the commitment that Red Bull has in raising soccer here in the United States. There is a lot of money (invested) that we will not see the returns on for quite some time. The amount of money that we are putting into this franchise is a 1000 times more than AEG or any of the other owners have put into it.

On Red Bull Park:
Red Bull Park will be ready end of summer/early fall of 2009. It’s hard for us to pin that down because we just do know what kind of weather we are going to have going into the winter. That is one of the challenges of building something like this in the northeast. Our goal is to make sure that we are playing games in 2009 in that facility. As an update, we are finishing up pouring concrete for our pile caps this month and we hope that at the end of the this month or the beginning of July, the structural steel will start to go up. At that point we will have symbolically turned the corner, and you will be able to see the structure going up out of the ground, and I think everyone will be able to take a deep breath and know that it’s coming soon.

On player personnel:
I am not at all hands off. I speak with Jeff and Juan regularly. I talk to Jeff several times a day. He is the expert. He is dealing with it every day and I take his decision to Austria for approval. There are a lot of resources with Red Bull. There are scouts and technical experts in Austria that we can rely on.

On what sold him on the job:
Probably the number one thing that sold me on this job is the concept of what this stadium is going to be. I had never heard of the a new stadium or arena being built in the last 20 years where the designers took suites out of the building. It has always been adding suites and adding clubs. We took them out and went from 60 to 30 so we can add more seats for the average fan to have a better experience. That is really a customer service focused business plan down to the average fan, and not as corporate aggressive. We will go after it but it will be more behind the scenes in the suites and club seats that we have and working on creating an environment where they can network when they are at our events and not be locked up into a suite with just their 12 ticket holders.

On how to attract new fans:
The most important thing is the new stadium, and that was why I was brought in, since we didn’t have the luxury of screwing it up when we opened it. You spend all this money to build this beautiful building. It will be the nicest building in North America for soccer and then you screw it up operationally. This is our opportunity. I think the grass roots stuff I think we do it pretty well. But putting a firmer message on it will help us a lot too.

DANNY CEPERO UPDATE: JUNE 2

With Danny out on loan to the Harrisburg City Islanders, RBR is providing periodic updates on how he and the team are doing in their USL-2 season.

The team is currently 1-1-5, and Danny is among the league leaders in almost every goalkeeping category. He leads the league with 36 saves, and has posted a 0.714 goals against average to date with just five goals against. The five goals allowed is tied for the second fewest in the 10 team league.

On Saturday, Danny posted five saves and a clean sheet in the team's 3-0 win over Real Maryland Monarchs.

The team gets back in action on Friday, when they take on Ricky Schramm's old team, the Richmond Kickers.