RED BULLS READER HAS MOVED!!

RED BULLS READER HAS MOVED

2008-08-04T10:48:00.002-04:00

Red Bulls Reader has moved to a new blogging platform and also has a new web address. To satisfy your Red Bulls Reader cravings, point your browser to www.redbullsreader.com. This site is up and running and will give you the same access the original site did.

Thank you for your patience during this switch as well as your support!

TWO DOWN; TWO TO GO

2008-07-17T15:32:00.002-04:00

Red Bull New York announced today that it has signed midfielders Jorge Rojas and Juan Pietravallo after they received their P-1 visas. Rojas and Pietravallo will be available for selection for the Red Bulls’ match against the Los Angeles Galaxy on Saturday at 6:30 PM ET at Giants Stadium (TV: Fox Soccer Channel, Radio: WADO 1280).

Rojas should step right into the Starting XI and fill the CAM role that has been an issue for the Red Bulls for most of the season. No word on if Pietravallo will also step into a starting role.

Diego Jimenez and Gabriel Cichero have not been officially signed by the club at this point, in regards to MLS approval, etc.

Are you excited about these two players donning the kit for the first time? Do you think their presence will change the dynamic on the field? Will it produce more wins for the club? Will Rojas be the difference maker we all hope he can be? Will you be there on Saturday for their debut? TICKETS ARE STILL AVAILABLE. Share your thoughts in the comments section below.

FOUR ACADEMY PLAYERS NAMED TO USDA U17/18 STARTING XI

2008-07-17T15:20:00.000-04:00

The US Soccer Development Academy’s eight Conference Starting XI squads and Coaches of the Year from the Under-17/18 age groups were announced recently during Finals Week at The Home Depot Center in Carson, CA. In the U17/18 Mid-Atlantic Divison four Red Bull players were selected to this prestigious group.

"It is a great achievement and honor that we had four players selected to the all conference team in the inaugural season of the Academy,” head coach Paul O’Donnell said. “To have four out of the eleven selected is a testament to the impact that these players and the entire U18 team had on the National Scouts and opposing coaches. The players that were selected were worthy of their selection and were tremendous over the course of the entire season".

The recipients of the awards were voted upon by U.S. Soccer’s Development Academy coaches and National Team scouts.

The Red Bulls total was matched only by the Baltimore Bays, who finished just ahead of the Red Bulls during the regular season, and have advanced to the Finals Week Championship match. The full team is as follows:

U-17/18 Mid-Atlantic Starting XI:
GK: Bill Hamid – D.C. United
D: Thomas Brandt - Baltimore Bays
D: Connor Lade - NYRB
D: Chris Lebo - Baltimore Bays
M: James Wenger - PA Classics
M: Cesar Blacido - NYRB
M: Neil Vranis - Baltimore Bays
M: Matt Kassell - NYRB
F: Chris Argorsor - Baltimore Bays
F: Kyle Bethel - Match Fit Academy
F: Johnny Exantus - NYRB

Coach of the Year: Steve Klein - PA Classics

CLICK HERE FOR FULL RELEASE

US Soccer Annouces Squad For Beijing

2008-07-17T14:53:00.000-04:00

Peter Nowak announced the team he will being with him to Beijing for the 2008 Summer Olympiad. A familiar name is on the list at forward, as Jozy Altidore (no major surprise there) has been selected. Through conversations with RBR ealier this year, being selected for the team was a dream for Jozy, and all of us here at RBR are extremely happy for him.

READ THE FULL USSOCCER.COM RELEASE HERE

There was some concern when Jozy transfered that Villareal would not allow him to participate, but its seems that is not the case after all.

What do you think of the team's medal chances? There are in a tough group. How will they fare? Share your thoughts in the comments section.

CLAUDIO REYNA RETIRES FROM PRO SOCCER

2008-07-16T17:29:00.003-04:00

At an emotional press conference Wednesday at St. Benedict's Prep, Red Bulls captain and Designated Player Claudio Reyna retired from professional soccer. In front of numerous dignitaries, friends, family, media members, and Red Bulls members, the man known as "Captain America" hung up his boots.

Read more about it and see the video of the press conference on the official site .

Reyna met with his teammates prior to the press conference to let them know personally about his decision. RBR caught up with a few players afterwards to get their reaction to the announcement.

Angel on Reyna's retirement:

van den Bergh on the impact of Reyna's experience on the locker room:

Stammler on playing with Reyna:

What are your thoughts on Reyna's retirement? What is his legacy in regards to American soccer? Share your thoughts in the comments section.

A RED BULL STAFFER AND THE SHOWDOWN IN CHINATOWN

2008-07-16T09:39:00.000-04:00

Photo from Unprofessional Foul
The Unprofessional Foul blog sat down with RBNY's own Mike Quarino recently to talk about his experience serving as target practice...excuse me, goalkeeper during the Showdown in Chinatown a few weeks ago.

Mike did a great job in the game, and an equally solid job with the interview. CLICK HERE FOR THE INTERVIEW

RBR posted about this earlier, with some nice video.

REAL LIFE: SECAUCUS - EPISODE TWO: SKIP TO MY LOU

2008-07-15T22:02:00.002-04:00

In our second episode of Real Life: Secaucus, David Roth checks in with Arizona Cardinals placekicker Neil Rackers. Rackers took part in a Red Bulls practice prior to the team's 1-0 win over Chivas de Guadalajara in Glendale, AZ on June 25. Rackers and Roth, both from St. Louis, waxed nostalgia about their hometown. Of course, we have no idea what they’re talking about, but enjoy!

CLAUDIO REYNA TO HOLD PRESS CONFERENCE TOMORROW

2008-07-15T16:57:00.000-04:00

Claudio Reyna and the Red Bulls will hold a press conference Wednesday at St. Benedict's Prep in Newark, NJ at 2:00 pm.

Here are some links relating to the press conference:
Soccer By Ives
Big Apple Soccer
New York Post Extra Time
New York Times Goal Blog

RED BULLS DEFEAT CITY ISLANDERS IN SCRIMMAGE; RBR CATCHES UP WITH CEPERO

2008-07-15T16:50:00.000-04:00

The Red Bulls faced the Harrisburg City Islanders of USL-2 in a scrimmage on Tuesday afternoon at Giants Stadium. The game was split into three 30-minute periods, giving the Red Bulls’ fresh faces time to see their first “real” action in the red and white.

First Period
--------------------Welcome----------------------Richards---------------------
------------------------------------Rojas---------------------------------------
-----van den Bergh----------------------------------------Freeman-----------
---------------------------Mendes------Stammler-----------------------------
---------Goldthwaite-------------Cichero-------------------Parke----------
-------------------------------------Conway------------------------------------

In terms of fresh faces, striker George Welcome was ‘Welcomed’ to the Bulls’ first unit, in addition to Jorge Rojas at attacking midfield and center back Gabriel Cichero.

The Red Bulls went up 1-0 on a Jeff Parke header off a Dave van den Bergh corner in the 23rd minute. Parke’s header was blasted past Red Bulls goalkeeper Danny Cepero, who is currently on loan with the City Islanders.

A nice sequence followed only four minutes later. Rojas found the back of the net after a Goldthwaite volley found his feet. The buildup proceeding that – Richards to van den Bergh on the left flank – is the attacking third presence Juan Carlos Osorio is looking for.

Second Period
-------------------------------------Welcome-------------------------------------
---------------Rojas-----------------Magee--------------------Richards----------
--------------------van den Bergh --------------Stammler---------------------
------------Jimenez-----------Boyens-------Parke----------Leitch------------
--------------------------------------Thornton------------------------------------

The teams were scoreless in the second period, although in the latter half the Red Bulls were able to generate more chances in the second half of the period. John Gilkerson replaced Jimenez, and would stay on in the third.

Third Period
----------------------Borman----------------------Wolyniec---------------------
------------van den Bergh-----------Rojas-----------------Richards------------
----------------------------Magee--------------------Mendes--------------------
----------Gilkerson------------Boyens-------------Parke----------Leitch------
---------------------------------------Thornton------------------------------------

Defender Andrew Boyens saw his first action in the third session, and scored a goal only four minutes in. Danielle Borman took a corner, Mike Magee got his head on it, and Boyens picked up the loose change to give the Red Bulls the 3-0 lead.

Ricky Schramm then replaced Wolyniec at striker and made his presence felt early. David Roth put a ball in over the top, Schramm ran onto it, and hammered it past goalkeeper Brian Pope. 4-0 Red Bulls.

With the game winding down, Harrisburg managed a late tally on a New York defensive miscue. 4-1 is your final.

RBR caught up with Cepero, and discussed his experience thus far in Pennsylvania, coming home to New York and the rumor that there is an intern living in his New York apartment.

RBR: On his experience thus far in Harrisburg…
DC: It’s been pretty incredible, I wasn’t expecting too much. I was just going down there to play soccer. But as it turns out all the guys are great, very welcoming. Coming off the season when they won the championship, it was a little tough at first getting my niche it there, get your spot in there. Once I did, all the guys are great, the coaches, the organization, the GM, they are all very cool guys. They are all very accommodating. They know what I am here to do: get better and get games. They’ve been very good about making that happen. I have no complaints whatsoever.

RBR: On what specifically USL soccer has allowed him to develop…
DC: Especially as a goalkeeper, you can only train so much. To get that game experience where you have to make decisions for a full 90 minutes, that’s the kind of thing that you have to have as you progress to the next level that you need … that mindset of organizing your back lien and keeping the guys in front of you together so you don’t have to make so many saves, making decisions about when to come out, what to say to your defenders, how to guide them through the game and just seeing the game.

RBR: On the fact that he is on “loan” and is still the property of RBNY…
DC: I didn’t want to leave New York. I started to get comfortable with the guys here. But at the same time, to be loaned and to have that rare occasion where you’re still with the New York team, but you have the chance to get some additional experience that was a definite plus. It was the best of both worlds, for Red Bull, getting me some games, and for myself, trying to make that investment and improve different parts of my game.

RBR: On being back to New York…
DC: Weird. I haven’t been back in a few weeks. My parents were here, and were able to come and see me play for a little bit, which is so nice and something that I took for granted when I was here being so close and then I move to Harrisburg for a couple months. Granted it’s not long but still I don’t like to be away from home and not have that lifeline. It’s tough. It’s great to be back and unfortunately it’ll only be for a few hours. It’s good to see them and it’s good to see these guys.

RBR: On returning to Giants Stadium…
DC: It almost felt like I never left. I like being in here and coming out and warming up before the games and the few times we trained out here. It’s a historic stadium, you always get a rush when you come out here, even when it’s empty.

RBR: On the rumor that there is an intern living in his NY apartment…
DC: I don’t know who it is, although I do know about it. I don’t need that much furniture. The more the merrier. They helped me out by finding that apartment so the least I can do is help out.

I'VE GOT A FEVER, AND THE ONLY PERSCRIPTION IS MORE FOOSBALL

2008-07-14T10:40:00.000-04:00

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

Now that we have your attention...

Tomorrow is the second of the three foosball tournaments that will be held at the Austrian Cultural Forum NYC in conjunction with an art exhibition, "Bread and Soccer: in the arena of art."

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 David Roth, Caleb Patterson-Sewell, Michael Palacio, and one additional player will appear at the July 15 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 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)

ROJAS GETTING COMFORTABLE IN NEW YORK

2008-07-11T14:09:00.000-04:00

Jorge Rojas, who was introduced by the Red Bulls to the media last week, is beginning to get comfortable in his new surrounding. He recently attended a Yankees game and met with fellow Venezuelan Bobby Abreu prior to the game. The duo exchanged jersey's and Rojas chatted with Abreu to get the Yankee right fielder about coming out to a Red Bulls match. The photo above is courtesy of Rene Rincon, who helped set up the meeting.

Personally speaking, RBR is a Mets fan, so hopefully Rojas can get over the Shea to meet with Johan Santana or Endy Chavez, and get them out to a match.

RED BULLS 1, WIZARDS 2 - POST-GAME

2008-07-10T22:30:00.000-04:00

Some post-game reaction from tonight's match. Team flies out tomorrow morning back to NY/NJ area:

Head coach Juan Carlos Osorio on the game:

Midfielder Seth Stammler on Kansas City's goals and on the game:

Forward Juan Pablo Angel on his goal:

Leave your thoughts on the match in the comments section.

RED BULLS-WIZARDS PRE-GAME

2008-07-10T19:29:00.000-04:00

We're here at CommunityAmerica Ballpark where your Red Bulls are taking on the Kansas City Wizards. A win would propel the Red Bulls to third place in the Eastern Conference. Here is your Starting XI:

--------------------Angel----------------------Echeverry---------------------

---------------------------------Magee---------------------------------------

-----Stammler-------------------------------------------Sassano--------------

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

van den Bergh---------Goldthwaite---------Parke---------------------Leitch---

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

Subs: Thornton, Borman, Ubiparipovic, Freeman, Boyens, Wolyniec, Richards

- Angel will be making his first start since June 5 - a 1-0 win over Chivas USA in which he scored the game-winning goal.
- Red Bulls are unbeaten in nine of their last 10 against Kansas City (4-1-5).
- This is the seventh of eight games in which the Red Bulls are on the road.
- Wizards lineup: Hartman, Jewsbury, Conrad, Hohlbein, Harrington, Arnaud, Victorine, Morsink, Lopez, Trujillo, Sealy

As always, leave your pre-game and in-game comments here! And make sure you join Steve Cangialosi and Shep Messing for the game on MSG, which kicks off at 8 PM ET.

MLS ALL-STARS ANNOUNCED

2008-07-10T12:05:00.001-04:00

The MLS All-Star First XI was announced today. No Red Bulls were named among the First XI, though there is always the possibility that a player will be added as the 18-man roster is completed.

Here are the all-star selections:
2008 MLS All-Star First XI

Goalkeeper: Matt Reis (New England Revolution)

Defenders: Jimmy Conrad (Kansas City Wizards), Frankie Hejduk (Columbus Crew), Michael Parkhurst (New England Revolution)

Midfielders: David Beckham (Los Angeles Galaxy), Cuauhtemoc Blanco (Chicago Fire), Shalrie Joseph (New England Revolution), Sacha Kljestan (Chivas USA), Robbie Rogers (Columbus Crew)

Forwards: Kenny Cooper (FC Dallas), Landon Donovan (Los Angeles Galaxy)

What are your thoughts on the picks? Who is the most glaring omission? Do you think any Red Bulls are deserving of selection? Who will win the match vs. the Hammers? Share your thoughts in the comments section.

ON WINGS WITH AN ANGEL

2008-07-09T16:56:00.000-04:00

The team left this morning for Kansas City in preparation for the team's match Thursday night on MSG. RBR is happy to report that Juan Pablo Angel, who returned from injury with 45 minutes against Colorado last week, traveled with the team and is likely to start, which will hopefully help jump start the Red Bull offense, which has been a bit stagnant in his absence.

With only Claudio Reyna and Ricky Schramm on the injury report, it looks like the club is starting to put the injury bug behind them. Thanks goodness for that. Also, the reserve match that was slated to follow the First Team match has been postponed. No makeup date has been announced at this time.

TICKETS FOR THE RED BULLS VS. GALAXY GAME GOING FAST

2008-07-08T16:58:00.000-04:00

The Red Bulls have sold over 40,000 tickets for the 2008 Red Bulls-Los Angeles Galaxy game set for Saturday, July 19 at Giants Stadium at 6:30 PM ET. Last year in front of a record 66,237 fans at Giants Stadium, the Red Bulls earned a historic 5-4 win over the Galaxy. Forward Juan Pablo Angel broke a 4-4 deadlock two minutes from full time with his second goal of the match while Galaxy midfielder David Beckham tallied a pair of assists, playing the entire game.

There is still time to get your seat for the match, so call 1-877-RBSOCCER or CLICK HERE TO ORDER TICKETS!!

ON LOAN UPDATE: DANNY CEPERO

2008-07-08T10:10:00.000-04:00

Danny, on loan to the Harrisburg City Islanders, has continued his fine season, helping the City Islanders to a 5-1-7 record and 22 points, good for fourth place in USL-2. In his last match, Cepero tallied two saves in a 2-0 win over Real Maryland Monarchs on July 6, extending Harrisburg's unbeaten streak to nine matches (5-0-4).

Danny is among the league leaders in every goalkeeping category, and leads the league with a 0.50 goals against average.

He also ranks third in saves with 53, and tied for third in wins (5) and shutouts (5).

Danny and the City Islanders next play on Friday, July 11 at the Western Mass Pioneers.

Keep up the good work Danny!

THE SECOND HALF STARTS TODAY

2008-07-07T15:20:00.001-04:00

The Red Bulls got back to work today in preparation for their match at Kansas City on Thursday. Juan Pablo Angel participated in the full session, as did trialist Diego Jimenez. RBR also spotted Claudio Reyna, continuing to rehab his injured back.

With the first half of the 2008 season behind us, the Red Bulls look forward to the second 15 matches, beginning Thursday at Kansas City. CHECK OUT THE VIEWING PARTY Thursday to support your side.

In a side note:
Jon Conway has stopped 151 shots during his tenure as a Red Bull. That total puts his three behind Jonny Walker (154) for fourth on the franchises all-time list. Mike Ammann stands in third place with 199 saves. Conway has stopped 151 shots in 3,573 minutes in net for the Red Bulls. Both totals put Conway over the minimum for consideration on the teams all-time goals against average (min. 3,500 minutes) and saves percentage (min. 150 saves) lists. Conway now sits atop both lists and is the fifth goalkeeper to reach the minimums.

Goals Against Average
1. Jon Conway 1.21
2. Jonny Walker 1.38
3. Tim Howard 1.46
4. Tony Meola 1.64
5. Mike Ammann 1.89

Save Percentage
1. Jon Conway 75.9%
2. Tony Meola 72.9%
3. Tim Howard 72.8%
4. Jonny Walker 70.6%
5. Mike Ammann 62.8%

Should Conway play against Kansas City, he will move into a tie for
fourth with Jonny Walker for games played in goal for New York with
42. Tony Meola leads with 125, followed by Tim Howard (85), and
Mike Ammann (46).

RED BULLS 0, RAPIDS 4 - POST-GAME

2008-07-05T00:11:00.000-04:00

Some post-game reaction:

Head coach Juan Carlos Osorio on the result:

Defender Hunter Freeman on the game:

Forward Juan Pablo Angel on returning:

RED BULLS-RAPIDS PRE-GAME

2008-07-04T20:51:00.000-04:00

A beautiful day/evening at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park as your Red Bulls take on the Colorado Rapids on this July 4. A sellout crowd is expected for tonight’s match. Here is New York’s starting lineup:

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

Van den Bergh--------Ubiparipovic-----------------------Richards

----------------------Stammler--------Mendes-------------------------

Goldthwaite--------Parke-----------Boyens----------------Freeman

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

Subs: Thornton (GK), Leitch, Sassano, Borman, Magee, Wolyniec, Angel

Juan Pablo Angel traveled with the squad Friday and could make his first appearance since the Red Bulls’ 1-0 win over Chivas USA at Giants Stadium on June 5 – a match in which he scored the game-winning goal.

Catch the game live with Steve Cangialosi and Shep Messing on MSG starting at 9:30 PM ET and be sure to leave your comments here!

RED BULLS U-17S DROP FIRST MATCH

2008-07-04T19:45:00.001-04:00

Despite a Dylan Mencia goal, the New York Red Bulls Under-17 squad fell to their Chivas USA counterpart, 2-1, in the team’s first game of Soccer United Marketing’s second-annual U-17 Cup.

Chivas took an early lead minutes after the whistle when a Chivas player knocked in a cross from six yards out. However, the Red Bulls quickly leveled the score. Mencia gathered the ball at the top of the 18-yard-box, beat a defender and fired a low shot into the corner past goalkeeper Luis Godinez.

In the second half, the Red Bulls almost doubled their lead when Mencia played the ball to a wide open John Agudelo, but his first touch outside the penalty box did not enable him to get a shot off in the 50th minute.

Chivas USA took the lead 10 minutes later. Defender Cesar Arenas chipped the ball over the top of the Red Bulls’ defense to an on-rushing Roberto Romo, who beat the offsides trap and slotted the ball past goalkeeper Travis Ives. The Red Bulls had a few chances to equalize with Mencia hitting a shot over the bar six minutes from time, but Chivas was able to hold onto the win.

The Red Bulls’ next match in the round-robin tournament is on Saturday, when they take on the Los Angeles Galaxy Under-17s at 5:30 PM MT.

ANGEL RECEIVES ESPY NOMINATION FOR BEST MLS PLAYER

2008-07-03T12:44:00.001-04:00

New York Red Bull forward Juan Pablo Angel is among the six nominees for the 2008 ESPY Award for Best MLS Player, ESPN announced recently. Angel joins fellow nominees Luciano Emilio (D.C. United), Matt Reis (New England Revolution), David Beckham (Los Angeles Galaxy), Cuauhtemoc Blanco (Chicago Fire) and the 2007 award-winner, Landon Donovan (Los Angeles Galaxy) as finalists for the annual award.

The 16th Annual ESPY Awards will take place on Wednesday, July 16, at the new Nokia Theatre L.A. Live, where Justin Timberlake will serve as the show's host. ESPN will televise the awards show on Sunday, July 20, at 9 p.m. ET.

Fans can place their votes for Angel - as well as the nominees in all 37 award categories - at ESPYS.tv or on their mobile phones. Online voting continues through Saturday, July 12, at 11:59 p.m. ET.

In 2007, Angel burst upon the Major League Soccer scene after signing with the Red Bulls as a Designated Player on April 17, 2007 after a successful stint with Aston Villa of the English Premier League. In 24 matches the Colombian striker tallied 19 goals (good for second in MLS) and set new club records for goals in a season, multi-goal games (five), and goals in consecutive games (six from May 19-June 16). A two-time MLS Player of the Month (May and June) and two-time MLS Player of the Week (weeks seven and nine), Angel was a MLS Best XI selection, and was a finalist for MLS MVP and MLS Newcomer of the Year. The leading vote getter for the MLS All-Star Game, he was recognized as the match’s MVP after scoring the game-winning goal against Celtic FC in MLS’ 2-0 win.

ANGEL NOMINATED FOR UNIVISION'S TECATE SPORTS AWARDS ALL-STAR

2008-07-03T11:44:00.001-04:00

New York Red Bull forward Juan Pablo Angel is among the Major League Soccer players nominated for the first-ever annual “Tecate Premios Deportes” (Tecate Sports Awards) and announced by Univision, official broadcast partner of MLS.

The “Tecate Premios Deportes” awards will be presented during a celebrity-filled “red carpet” celebration at the historic Pasadena Civic Auditorium in Pasadena, California, and will be broadcast on the Univision Network on Sunday, July 20.

Comprised of Hispanic athletes in ten different categories, the nominees have been selected for their talent, character and perseverance, as well as their contributions to and impact on the Hispanic community. Angel has been nominated as a forward for the All-Star Team of the Year.

The “Tecate Premios Deportes” nominees were selected by a distinguished panel of current and former professional athletes and sports writers, including famed boxer and Houston Dynamo equity partner Oscar de la Hoya, legendary Mexican soccer goalie Jorge Campos, retired NFL player Tony Casillas, NFL Hall of Fame recipient Anthony Muñoz, former Mexican soccer coach Jesus Bracamontes, and Enrique Borja, legendary Mexican forward and team president of the Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León (UANL) Tigres.

The judging criteria for the awards included the athletes’ statistical excellence, participation in a televised professional sport in the United States during 2007, cumulative impact on their team and in the sport, and their reputation as a role model for the Hispanic community.

Sports fans have voted for four of these awards at Univision.com (keyword: Tecate Premios Deportes): Atleta Masculino del Año (Male Athlete of the Year), Atleta Femenina del Año (Female Athlete of the Year), Equipo All Star de Béisbol (Baseball All-Star Team) & Equipo All Star de Fútbol (Soccer All-Star Team). In addition, a live, dedicated mini-site provides exclusive coverage of the event and video highlights of the nominees in their finest sports moments. “Tecate Premios Deportes” is the first-ever awards event of its kind, showcasing a seamless merger of sports and entertainment that will reach countless online fans.

GRACIE TO DEBUT ON MSG AT THE MOVIES ON MONDAY

2008-07-03T10:46:00.001-04:00

Set in 1978, GRACIE is an inspirational film about a teenage girl who overcomes the loss of her brother and fights the odds to achieve her dream of playing competitive soccer at a time when girls’ soccer did not exist. Based on true events from the lives of the Shue family (producer and co-star Andrew Shue and Academy Award-nominated actress Elisabeth Shue) the film is directed by acclaimed filmmaker Lemore Syvan (“Sherrybaby”).

Living in South Orange, New Jersey, 15 year old Gracie Bowen (Carly Schroeder) is the only girl in a family of 3 brothers. Their family life revolves almost entirely around soccer: her father (Dermot Mulroney) and brothers are obsessed with the sport, practicing on their backyard’s makeshift field every day. Tragedy strikes Gracie’s older brother Johnny, star of the local high school soccer team.

Struggling with grief, Gracie decides to fill the void left on her brother’s team by petitioning the school board to allow her to play on the varsity boys team. Gracie, through will and determination, forces her family to come together and help her in her goal.

MSG At The Movies Premieres the critically acclaimed film GRACIE on Monday, July 7th at 8pm.

2008 U17 MLS CUP KICKS OFF THIS WEEKEND

2008-07-03T09:25:00.003-04:00

Both the Red Bull First Team and Red Bull Academy players will be in Colorado this weekend, with the First Team taking on the Rapids on Friday at 9:30 ET (COME TO THE VIEWING PARTY), and a combination of U15s and U16s participating in the MLS Academy Cup.

The Red Bulls have been placed in Group D with Real Salt Lake and the LA Galaxy and play their first match on July 4 at 11:15 AM against Chivas USA.

To follow the tournament, CLICK HERE TO GO TO THE OFFICIAL TOURNAMENT HOMEPAGE

RBR wishes the Academy players the best of luck!!

ROJAS AND PIETRAVALLO INTRODUCED TO MEDIA PRIOR TO TRAINING WEDNESDAY

2008-07-02T16:29:00.006-04:00

Red Bull New York announced today that it has come to terms with Venezuelan national team midfielder Jorge Rojas and Argentinean midfielder Juan Pietravallo. Per club and League policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed, and the deal is pending league approval and receipt of P-1 visas. Both players were introduced to the media at the Red Bulls’ training facility at Montclair State University Wednesday afternoon.

Rojas, 31, has enjoyed a decorated career in the top leagues in Venezuela, Colombia, and Ecuador. He helped Venezuelan First Division side, Caracas FC, to four league titles, was a member of the 2005 Apertura Champion Atletico Nacional side while playing for the Colombian First Division side, and was named the best foreign player in the Ecuadorean First Division while playing with national power Emelec. Prior to joining the Red Bulls, “El Zurdo” played for Venezuelan First Division side, Union Atletico Maracaibo. He has played in over 150 professional matches in some of the top leagues in South America.

The 5-10, 165-pound Venezuelan has also earned 82 caps with his national team, and has served as captain for the side in the past. The second most capped player in Venezuelan history, Rojas featured in two International Friendlies for Venezuala recently, scoring a goal in a 1-1 draw with Honduras on May 30, and helped his national side defeated Brazil, 2-0, on June 6 at Gillette Stadium.

Pietravallo, 26, was previously with Greek Super League side, Veria FC, making three appearances. Earlier in the 2007-08 season, Pietravallo also played for Belgrano de Córdoba of the Argentina Premier Division.

The 5-9, 155-pound Argentinean started out his career for Argentina Premier Division side, Velez Sarsfield in 1999 and made a combined 31 appearances for the club over three seasons. He then moved to Olimpo de Bahia Blanco in the same division before joining Leganes of the Spanish Second Division, where he played in 14 matches. Pietravallo has also enjoyed stints at Argentinean First Division sides Gimnasia (2004), Atletico Rafaela (Argentina 2004-05), Quilmes (Argentina, 2005-06) and Nueva Chicago (2006-07).

Both players will not be available for selection until after the transfer window opens on July 15, so the first match they could potentially be eligible for is the July 19 fixture with the Los Angeles Galaxy.

Here is a goal from Jorge from the Honduras match:

Here is some video of Juan:

NEW YORK-CPB POST-MORTEM

2008-07-01T22:38:00.005-04:00

Not much to say about this except to move on to Friday for our match at Colorado.

Head coach Juan Carlos Osorio on the result:

Captain Kevin Goldthwaite:

Just a reminder, comments left that have profanity will not be tolerated and will be removed. We're just as disappointed with the loss as all of you are but please stay clean with the language.

RED BULLS OPEN CUP ACTION

2008-07-01T16:58:00.051-04:00

This evening, your Red Bulls kick off Lamar Hunt Open Cup play, taking on USL 2nd Division side, Crystal Palace Baltimore, at 7:30 PM. The team traveled down to Annapolis, MD yesterday and watched Boondock Saints and Curb Your Enthusiasm, Season 2, on the ride down.

RBR visited Broadneck High School and its FieldTurf field earlier today and saw that it was quite narrow for a soccer pitch. We're going to attempt to do MATCH TRACKER on our official site from the field, but with no hi-speed internet available, it may be difficult. At the very least, we'll provide some sort of running commentary here.

UPDATE:

NY Lineup:
NYRB (4-5-1): Thornton, Gilkerson, Goldthwaite (capt.), Parke, Leitch, Borman, Sassano, Kljestan, Mendes, Magee, Megaloudis

Subs: Patterson-Sewell (GK), Roth, Wolyniec, Freeman, Boyens, Schramm, Ubiparipovic

Juan Pablo Angel, Dane Richards, Dave van den Bergh, Seth Stammler and Oscar Echeverry are among the players who didn't make the trip.

BIG presence by Red Bulls fans (Section 101 banner is up!) who are cheering and singing loudly right next to the field. Should be a wonderful atmosphere! As always, this affirms that we have the best fans in the League!

Field is full of lines! Football lines, lacrosse lines, soccer lines, field hockey lines.... Usher's "Yeah!" is on. Seven minutes till kick....

Kickoff at 7:40 PM

7' Nothing going on so far with both teams feeling each other out.

13' After a good build-up at the top of the box, Magee takes a shot from 20 yards out that goes over the bar.

17' After the ref plays advantage, Larry Mark gets in on the box but Gilkerson knocks it out for a corner.

18' GOAL CPB: Marshall's corner finds the head of Bryan Harkin, who nods it past Zach Thornton. 1-0.

21' Yellow card issued to Larry Mark after a rough challenge on Gilkerson.

23' Larry Mark back passes to his 'keeper, and after the keeper catches it, the ref calls a foul seven yards from goal. Shot by Magee is deflected by the wall and over.

27' Magee heads a Borman free kick but header goes wide right.

30' Gary Brooks gets behind the Red Bulls defense but pulls his shot wide left.

34' Ibrahim Kante for CPB gets a straight red after a nasty tackle on Megaloudis. Red Bulls go a man up.

36' Brooks hits a shot way over the bar.

44' Leitch puts a good cross in that's punched out of play by the goalkeeper.

FOUR MINUTES OF EXTRA TIME.

45' Megaloudis takes a shot from 12 yards out but it was deflected.

46' CPB gets behind the Red Bulls again but Goldthwaite is there to make a tackle and put it out for a corner.

47'+ CPB gets a goal disallowed after Pat Healey was at the penalty spot and put it past Thornton.

47'+ Magee hits a freekick into the box and it's headed wide by Goldthwaite.

HALFTIME: Not a very good half for the Red Bulls, but they are playing a man up for another 45 minutes and anything could happen. CPB has definitely come to compete and got a goal off a good set piece.

Red Bulls make three subs: Ubiparipovic for Kljestan, Wolyniec for Leitch, Boyens for Gilkerson.

49' Ubi almost slips Wolyniec through but a CPB defender is there to make a play.

Lighting in corner of the fields is fairly poor.

56' Megaloudis takes a shot that's deflected to Sassano, who volleys it wide past the right post.

60' Lookingland for Harkin as the first sub for CPB.

American Football clock here so the clock resets back to 0:00 here. Handball on CPB, and Red Bulls have a chance from 28 yards.

62' Magee free kick caught by goalkeeper Matt Nelson. Roth about to come on for New York.

64' Roth on for Borman.

66' Red Bulls put together a good attack and earn a corner after Ubi's cross is deflected for a corner. Goldthwaite is able to get his head on the ensuing corner but it is blocked by a CPB player.

68' More pressure as the Sassano plays the ball across the top of the box to Magee, who one-times it, forcing the keeper to make a diving save. Moments later, Ubi gets space up top but puts his shot at the 'keeper.

70' Red Bulls keep on applying the pressure, earning another corner after an Ubi free kick is knocked away. Ubi's corner kick is caught by the 'keeper.

74' CPB almost doubles their lead when Mbuta gets space on the left wing and takes a shot that deflects off Parke and knocks off the crossbar.

75' GOAL CPB. Paul Robson puts a left footed cross into the box that's headed in by an unmarked Gary Brooks. 2-0 CPB.

78' Parke makes the tackle as the last man on defense on a 2-on-1 CPB breakaway. CPB makes anohter sub: Brooks for Teixeira. Attendance: 1654.

83' Off a counter attack, Teixeira puts a left footed shot over the crossbar.

85' Almost 3-0 when Teixeria is able to muscle his way into the box and Thornton makes the save. Mark on hand for the rebound but puts it wide.

87' Mendes with a shot from the top of the box but it is saved by the keeper.

90' Mbuta off the post on another counter with all the Red Bulls pushed forward. Three minutes of stoppage time. Red card to Magee.

FINAL SCORE: CPB 2, NY 0. Not a good performance NY and credit CPB, they definitely came out with energy and played well. Post-game sound to come....

RED BULL FRONT OFFICE EURO 2008 PICKS: A LOOK BACK

2008-07-01T10:04:00.005-04:00

Earlier this month, RBR posted the Red Bull Front Office Euro 2008 champion selections.

Of the 26 staffers polled, three correctly picked Spain as the champion (along with regular poster karbaz it must be noted). RBR went with Italy, and was disapointed by their performance, as was RBR's Uncle Louie. Four staffers had Germany winning it all, but since the Germans lost, the don't get recognized in this post. The three accurate prognosticators were:

1) Rich Searls - Director of Sales and Fan Services
2) Simon Nee - Training Programs Director of Coaching
3) Simon Barrow - Manager, Regional Development Schools

Looks like Red Bull Academy has some smart guys working for it!

U15 COMEBACK FALLS SHORT IN REGIONAL SEMIFINALS

2008-06-30T16:33:00.002-04:00

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

2008-06-30T15:50:00.003-04:00

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

2008-06-30T14:46:00.004-04:00

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

2008-06-29T11:30:00.002-04:00

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

2008-06-29T01:21:00.004-04:00

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

2008-06-28T21:57:00.004-04:00

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

2008-06-28T14:42:00.002-04:00

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

2008-06-26T10:14:00.002-04:00

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

2008-06-26T09:49:00.005-04:00

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

2008-06-26T02:03:00.002-04:00

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

2008-06-25T22:47:00.015-04:00

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

2008-06-25T17:03:00.002-04:00

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

2008-06-25T11:22:00.003-04:00

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

2008-06-24T19:15:00.003-04:00

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 ....

2008-06-24T17:10:00.004-04:00

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

2008-06-24T12:24:00.003-04:00

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

2008-06-23T15:46:00.000-04:00

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

2008-06-23T15:44:00.021-04:00

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

2008-06-23T12:14:00.002-04:00

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

2008-06-21T22:34:00.002-04:00

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

2008-06-21T19:15:00.036-04:00

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

2008-06-21T19:12:00.000-04:00

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

2008-06-21T15:32:00.002-04:00

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

2008-06-20T16:43:00.003-04:00

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

2008-06-18T22:36:00.006-04:00

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

2008-06-18T19:22:00.002-04:00

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

2008-06-18T13:31:00.002-04:00

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

2008-06-16T16:55:00.006-04:00

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

2008-06-16T16:46:00.002-04:00

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

2008-06-14T22:53:00.002-04:00

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

2008-06-14T19:04:00.001-04:00

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

2008-06-14T18:17:00.000-04:00

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

2008-06-14T10:43:00.002-04:00

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

2008-06-13T10:27:00.004-04:00

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

2008-06-11T17:51:00.001-04:00

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

2008-06-10T15:49:00.002-04:00

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

2008-06-09T17:39:00.002-04:00

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

2008-06-09T17:14:00.003-04:00

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

2008-06-09T16:33:00.006-04:00

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

2008-06-09T15:22:00.003-04:00

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

2008-06-06T13:16:00.002-04:00

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

2008-06-05T22:24:00.005-04:00

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

2008-06-05T19:01:00.048-04:00

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

2008-06-05T11:22:00.003-04:00

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

2008-06-04T14:51:00.007-04:00

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!!

2008-06-04T09:38:00.003-04:00

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

2008-06-03T14:46:00.005-04:00

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

2008-06-02T16:59:00.003-04:00

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

2008-06-02T12:21:00.015-04:00

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.

RED BULLS FALL TO DYNAMO, 1-0

2008-05-31T23:54:00.003-04:00

A much better effort against Houston tonight, but alas, a Brian Ching goal separated the two sides. Head coach Juan Carlos Osorio thought that the team did well in the first half but did not keep possession well enough in the second and a set piece play left the Red Bulls going home with no points.

Reaction from Osorio:

Dane Richards:

Jozy Altidore:

There's a quick turnaround as the Red Bulls return home Thursday to face Chivas USA at 7:30 PM.

What are your thoughts on the match? Who were some of the standout performers? Were you impressed by the effort? Where does the team need to improve on its next game?

RED BULLS-DYNAMO PRE-GAME

2008-05-31T18:52:00.001-04:00

Good evening from a humid Robertson Stadium as your Red Bulls take on the two-time defending MLS Cup champion, the Houston Dynamo. Just a few notes as we prepare for kickoff:

- Forward Juan Pablo Angel DID NOT make the trip to Houston. Prior to the team’s departure, Angel picked up a virus and was deemed unfit to travel.
- Claudio Reyna (right hamstring) did not travel with the team to Houston. Dave van den Bergh also didn’t make the trip as he and his wife, Alexie are expecting their second child.
- Houston is missing several key players as well. Defender Eddie Robinson is missing today’s game due to a red card suspension. Goalkeeper Pat Onstad and midfielder Dwayne De Rosario are away on international duty with Canada.
- Red Bulls went 1-1-0 against Houston last year. In last match at Robertson Stadium, the Red Bulls lost 4-0. Hopefully, the tide will turn tonight!
- With Angel out, John Wolyniec will make his second start of the season alongside Jozy Altidore.
- Seth Stammler also returns to the lineup after missing three consecutive games due to a lower back injury. Stammler was given the Captain's armband for, we believe, the first time in his career.
- Dane Richards, who attended to San Jacinto Junior College in Houston during his first two years in college, and Hunter Freeman, the team’s resident Texan, both have large contingents of friends and family at the game.

Here are the lineups tonight:

New York Red Bulls: Jon Conway (GK), Kevin Goldthwaite, Jeff Parke, Andrew Boyens, Chris Leitch, Danleigh Borman, Seth Stammler (c), Luke Sassano, Dane Richards, Jozy Altidore, John Wolyniec

Bench: Zach Thornton (GK), Carlos Mendes, Hunter Freeman, Sinisa Ubiparipovic, Chris Megaloudis, Mike Magee

Houston Dynamo: Tony Caig (GK), Richard Mulrooney, Bobby Boswell, Patrick Ianni, Craig Waibel, Geoff Cameron, Ricardo Clark, Stuart Holden, Corey Ashe, Brian Mullan, Brian Ching (c)

Bench: Corbin Walker (GK), Mike Chabala, Brad Davis, John Michael Hayden, Kyle Brown, Franco Caraccio, Chris Wondolowski

Join the Red Bulls staff at Mulligan’s on First in Hoboken to catch the game on HDNet with kickoff set for 8:30 PM. As always, leave your pre-game and in-game thoughts here!

TGIF: ODDS AND ENDS

2008-05-30T15:06:00.005-04:00

It's Friday, so that means its the end of the work week and only one more day until the Red Bulls take on the Houston Dynamo on HDNet. Since today is traditionally a big Happy Hour day for most people, we added the above picture of what not to do when drinking. RBR did confirm that the fan was a college friend of Danleigh from URI, and Danleigh wanted to add that although he was happy to celebrate his marker with a close friend, he does not condone his friend's actions, and would discourage anyone from attempting to duplicate it.

Anyway, the club is looking to bounce back after its forgettable match last Sunday against Chicago against the two time defending MLS Cup champions. RBR caught up with some players to get their thoughts on the match:

Jeff Parke on bouncing back:

Seth Stammler on Dwayne De Rosario:

Kevin Goldthwaite on Brian Ching:

Here are some links from this week that we thought might interest you:
AmericanSoccerReader: Hunter Freeman Blog – Hunter’s Corner

SportsIllustrated: Doing a Number On Soccer

Yahoo! Sports: Starting the World Cup war of 2018

SoccerByIves.net: Red Bulls Update: Reyna out, van den Bergh Questionable for Houston

BigAppleSoccer.com: BOUNCING BACK

The International Fixture: They make it look a lot easier than it actually is

Did you check out the new episode of Red Bulls Insider? It will have a more in depth look at the Power Wheelchair event. Also due up on the Sights and Sounds page is this week's 3 Questions With Coach game preview and the latest episode of Red Bulls Wrap.

This week's Viewing Party will be at Mulligan's on First in Hoboken. Come on out to watch the match with fellow supporters as well as Red Bulls staffers. Drink specials will be available.

Have you signed up for the Red Bulls Weekly E-Newsletter?

What are your thoughts on this weekend's match? Will the Red Bulls bounce back from last week's debacle? What will the First XI look like? What are the keys to getting a positive result? Give us your thoughts.

RED BULLS TO PLAY FC BARCELONA AUGUST 6TH AT GIANTS STADIUM

2008-05-30T11:13:00.002-04:00

Red Bull New York and Soccer United Marketing (SUM) announced today that 2006 UEFA Champions League Winner FC Barcelona will play the Red Bulls at Giants Stadium on Aug. 6th as part of the club’s U.S. Tour. Game time is slated for 7:00 PM ET.

Tickets will be available exclusively for Red Bulls season ticket holders to add-on additional seats (Barcelona tickets are already included in full season ticket plans), as well as for current 8-Game and 4-Game plan holders to purchase their seats, from Monday, June 2nd at 10 AM through Tuesday, June 3rd at 5 PM. After this exclusive window, group tickets and a special ticket package that includes the FC Barcelona match and the LA Galaxy match on Saturday, July 19th will be available exclusively through the Red Bulls front office and on www.newyorkredbulls.com. For more information please call 1.877.RBSOCCER. 4-ticket packs for the FC Barcelona match will go on sale Friday, June 13th, with Individual tickets going on sale through TicketMaster on Tuesday, July 1st.

This will mark Barcelona’s third trip in the last five years to the United States, as the team toured the US in 2003 and 2006. The two sides matched up during the 2006 tour, with Barcelona emerging with a 4-1 win in front of a near-record breaking Giants Stadium crowd of 79,002 on Aug. 12.

FC Barcelona, coached by Josep Guardiola and recognized for its spectacular brand of attacking soccer, featured some of the world’s greatest players this past season, including FIFA World Player of the Year runner-up Lionel Messi (Argentina), three-time African Player of the Year Samuel Eto’o (Cameroon), and two-time European Golden Boot winner Thierry Henry (France).

Along with Messi, Eto’o and Henry, the Catalan giants have seven other players who featured in the recent 2006 World Cup in Germany. This list includes Mexico’s standout defender Rafael Marquez, Lilian Thuram (France), Gianluca Zambrotta (Italy), Carlos Puyol (Spain), Xavi Hernandez (Spain), and Iniesta (Spain).

NOTE: Some of these players are out of contract. None of the above players are confirmed to play in the match.

Barcelona will be making their first trip to the United States since 2006, when they took part in a three-game summer tour of the United States. FC Barcelona played at the Los Angeles Coliseum (1-1 vs. Chivas de Guadalajara on Aug. 6th), at Reliant Stadium in Houston (4-4 vs. Club America on Aug. 9th), and the fixture against the Red Bulls. Following the matches this August, the team will return to Spain to continue its preseason ahead of the kick-off to the 2008-09 La Liga season.

Barcelona completed the 2007-08 La Liga season in third place and advanced to the semifinals of the Champions League as well as the Spanish Cup.

RED BULLS MAKE OFFER TO JIMENEZ

2008-05-28T17:55:00.005-04:00

The Red Bulls have offered a contract to Mexican defender Diego Jimenez. Coach Osorio spoke about the offer and what the left-footed player can bring to the team in Brian Lewis' article on the New York Post Extra Time Blog. Read the full article by CLICKING HERE.

Do you think he would be a good signing? Does this potential signing signal additional signings during the transfer window?

RED BULL NEW YORK NAMES ERIK STOVER MANAGING DIRECTOR

2008-05-28T15:44:00.002-04:00

Red Bull New York announced today that Erik Stover has been promoted to the role of Managing Director of Red Bull New York effective immediately. Stover replaces Marc de Grandpre, who resigned on April 9, 2008.

Stover joined Red Bull New York on March 1, 2008, as Vice President, Operations and General Manager of Red Bull Park. Previously, Stover served as the General Manager of Qualcomm Stadium in San Diego since 2005. Prior to his tenure at Qualcomm Stadium, Stover spent nine years with the New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority where he served in a number of positions rising to the position of Assistant Vice President of Stadium Operations of Giants Stadium. Stover’s background includes facility and event management for both sports and entertainment properties. In addition, he had been involved in facility construction and renovation projects at both Qualcomm Stadium and Giants Stadium. He is a graduate of Penn State University.

Stover will oversee all of the business and commercial aspects of the team. In addition, Head Coach Juan Carlos Osorio and Sporting Director Jeff Agoos will report to Stover.

SEPARATED AT BIRTH?

2008-05-28T09:32:00.002-04:00

RBR went to the Mets game last night and when recently called up outfielder Nick Evans' photo was splashed on the JumboTron, I thought I was at Giants Stadium seeing a Red Bulls defender.

Hunter Freeman and Nick Evans, separated at birth? You decide. Just something to start off your hump day.

RED BULLS RELEASE ROSTERS FOR HIGH SCHOOL CUP (200th Post!!)

2008-05-27T16:00:00.001-04:00

Red Bull New York unveiled the rosters for the Red Bulls High School Cup, presented by adidas. The second-annual Red Bulls High School Cup will take place on June 21 at Giants Stadium following the New York Red Bulls' match against FC Dallas at 7:30 PM ET. This exclusive event brings together the top New York and New Jersey outgoing high school seniors, as both states will battle for local bragging rights in this All-Star showdown. Players were selected based on nominations from a variety of media outlets, coaches and individuals familiar with New York and New Jersey high school soccer.

New Jersey
Goalkeepers- Grant Schonberg (Pingry), Alan Bernstein (Wayne Hills).
Defenders- Brian Hessemer (Scotch Plains-Fanwood), Christian Nogueira (Kearny), Rob Arent (New Providence), Kevin Brown (Wayne Valley), Matt Beverin (Glen Rock), Zackary Woerner (Atlantic City).
Midfielders- Daniel Korenyi (Cinaminson), Marco Zanfardino (St. Benedicts), Giovanni Zammillo (Morris Catholic), John Fiorenzo (Ramapo), Manny Caicedo (Clifton), Eric Card (Vernon Township).
Forwards- Ibraham Kamara (North Brunswick), CJ Crooks (Seton Hall Prep), Luiz Bento (Harrison), Rodrigo Santiago (Morris Hills), Tyler Tompkins (North Hunterdon), Mike DeVizio (Scotch Plains-Fanwwod), Kyle Bethel (Howell).
Coaches- Mike Rusek (Harrison), Thomas Breznitsky (Scotch Plains-Fanwood).

New York
Goalkeepers- Alex Aurrichio (Half Hollow Hills West), Ryan Goettel (Cicero-North Syracuse)
Defenders- David Neumann (Arlington), Greg Bennett (Kenmore West), Pat Cantwell (West Islip), Marlon Letlow (Roosevelt)
Midfielders - Matt Kristek (Vestal), TJ Popolizio (Shenendehowa), Byrant Knibbs (Pine Brush), Matt Labriola (Chaminade), Joshua Faga (McQuaid), Scott Zorn (Churchville-Chili), Biko Edwards (MLK), Craig Santangelo (Sayville)
Forwards- Will Ogden (Byram Hills), Lawrence Papaleo (Syracuse CBA), Nathan Bourdeau (Baldwinsville), Matt Schuber (Webster Thomas)
Coaches- Martin Jacobson (MLK), Micky Cohen (MLK)

TWO ACADEMY PLAYERS RECEIVE PARADE HIGH SCHOOL ALL-AMERICA HONORS

2008-05-27T10:21:00.003-04:00

Two members of the Red Bull Academy Under-18 team have been named Parade High School All-Americans. Forward Walter Hines and midfielder Matt Kassel both received this
prestigious honor.

The duo have been instrumental in the outstanding season the Red Bulls U-18s have been having this season, which saw the team post a 17 match unbeaten streak (11-0-5).

The two young stars have also been recognized with call ups to their respective Under 20 national teams. Kassel was called up to the United States U20s for a series of friendlies with English Premier League Reserve teams, while Hines has been called up to the Costa Rica U20's for World Cup qualifying.

The Red Bull U18s played the US National Team U17s over the weekend, with the US U17s earning a 3-2 win in an exciting match, which saw two goals from Jonny Exantus and the Red Bulls U18s also hit two crossbars. The U18s followed up that match with a 2-2 draw with Empire SC with Kassel and Hines each tallying a goal.

To watch some video of the match with the US U17s, see below.

RED BULLS VS. CHICAGO POST MATCH REACTION

2008-05-25T18:20:00.003-04:00

Below is video from the locker room following today's match vs. the Chicago Fire.

Jozy Altidore Post Match:

Dane Richards Post Match:

Luke Sassano Post Match:

Juan Carlos Osorio Post Match:

What are your thoughts on today's match? Are there any positives to be taken away from the match? Who do you think played well? What do you think the team needs to do moving forwards towards the Houston match?

RED BULLS VS. CHICAGO RUNNING COMMENTARY

2008-05-25T13:14:00.046-04:00

90+ minute: Full time. 5-1 Chicago. Check back later for post match video.

89th minute: A header by Goldthwaite off a Freeman corner goes over.

88th minute: Another Angel header right at Busch.

85th minute: With Chicago still defending well, time is running very short for NY to make the comeback that seems too far off.

79th minute: NY sub: Sinisia for Reyna.

78th minute: Chicago sub: Woolard for Barrett

74th minute: A counter from NY gets a shot to Angel, but its right at Busch.

73rd minute: Goal NY! Altidore heads one past Busch from Hunter on a corner.

71st minute: Chicago sub: Frankowski for Mapp.

71st minute: A long ball from Goldtwaite to Angel's head is saved.

68th minute: Off the restart, Angel's header goes wide.

67th minute: A scuffle in front of the Fire net away from the ball. Soumare with Angel, then Altidore gets involved. Yellows to Soumare and Angel.

64th minute: Fire sub, King for Rolfe.

62nd minute: 5-0 Fire. Blanco's corner is headed off the post. Sageras puts the rebound home.

60th minute: Goal Fire. Barrett heads one under Conway from right in front of the net. Assists to Mapp and Blanco. 4-0 Chicago. Not good.

54th minute: Blanco puts it past Conway for a 3-0 lead. Magee and Altidore for Mendes and Richards.

53rd minute: PK called on a foul on Boyens in the box.

50th minute: Freeman plays a entry pass to Angel's head, but its wide.

48th minute: Cross from Blanco to the back post finds Rolfe wide open. Another diagonal ball for Chicago. 2-0 Fire.

46th minute: Doesn't look like changes for either side.

HALFTIME: Chicago has been focusing on their left on offense with the Red Bulls focusing on their right. Should be interesting to see what adjustments are made at halftime. Magee and Altidore are warming up for NY.

45+ minute: Halftime. 1-0 Chicago.

45th minute: 2 minutes of added time.

44th minute: A nice feed from Hunter to Richards earns a corner, but no threat.

41st minute: Chicago is content to send in long balls. NY is beginning to string together passes and get more productive crosses.

40th minute: From Goldthwaite, a turnaround by Borman goes just wide. Almost 3 in 3 games for the rookie.

39th minute: On a restart, Parke gets his head on the Reyna cross, but it goes wide.

32nd minute: NY is starting to settle in defensively, but is still have trouble stringing passes together on offense. With a 1-0 lead, does Chicago start to lag back a bit?

29th minute: Reyna's cross to Reyna goes wide. Segares is frustrating Richards on the right flank. That was his first good cross.

27th minute: Most of the Fire diagonals have come to the right side of the NY defense, leaving Golfthwaite with not much to do on the left side.

23rd minute: Corner for Chicago on another diagonal ball. Blanco plays it short and its well defended by Reyna.

21st minute: Angel with a shot from the top of the area, but its wide. First semi-chance for NY.

20th minute: Blanco wanted a penalty against Parke, but the call is not made. He is not happy. New York is not holding possession well so far.

19th minute: The Fire has come out with great intensity, and the Red Bulls are looking to try and match it with mixed results so far.

13th minute: New York looks to have a lack of focus on the defensive side. A Goldtwaite turnover to Rolfe almost leads to a goal from Blanco. Chicago is attacking with diagonal balls, something the Red Bulls had defended well to this point in the season.

7th minute: Blanco finds Barrett with a diagonal in the area. Easy finish. Goal Chicago.

7th minute: Nice diagonal ball leads to a shot from inside the area, but not on frame for the Fire.

4th minute: Some good counters from the Fire, and some not so collected defense by the Red Bulls so far.

2nd minute: Correction on that, its Boyens in the back, Parke on the right and Goldthwaite on the left.

1st minute: Looks like a diamond in the back, with Mendes at the top and Parke at the back.

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

PRE-GAME: The lineup looks a little different, don't you think? That was the way it was listed on the official lineup, though we think that Angel might be the lone striker up top with Borman and Richards on the flanks and Parke or Mendes marking Blanco in the midfield. A strong effort on defending Mr. White is certainly a key to the match this afternoon. And a fantastic Memorial Day it is!

PRE-GAME- Here's the Fire's lineup:

-----------------Barrett-------------------

Mapp-----------Blanco-------------Rolfe

------------Conde----Pause-------------

Segares-Gutierrez---Soumare--Prideaux

-----------------Busch--------------------

PRE-GAME- And for the Red Bulls, the lineup is listed as this:

-------------Angel---------Sassano----------------

Borman------------Reyna---------------Richards

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

Goldthwaite--Parke----Boyens--------Freeman

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

PRE-GAME: RBR had a chance to get down on the pitch about an hour ago, and the turf is already pretty hot. Should be interesting to see if this effects play at all as the turf will only get hotter as the day progresses. Makes you wonder what it will be like on the field in the dog days of August.

LINKS DU JOUR

2008-05-24T15:30:00.000-04:00

With the match with Chicago less than 24 hours away, here are some links related to the game as well as some others RBR came across during the week:

USA Today: Red Bulls, Fire say no grudge; it's just a game

New York Times Goal Blog: Red Bulls’ Sniper Trying to Regain Form

Preview from the official site: Fire, Red Bulls battle for East position

New York Times Goal Blog: In The Pool: Jozy Altidore

New York Times: Red Bulls Rookies Earn Praise, but Not Much Money

NY Daily News Español: Un ‘paisa’ con piel de toro rojo

BigAppleSoccer.com: The Back Is Better

SoccerByIves.net: Red Bulls Update: Reyna and Altidore fit, Stammler doubtful

New York Post Extra Time Blog: Reyna expects to play, other Red Bull notes

RED BULL PARK UPDATE

2008-05-24T10:02:00.001-04:00

Just a short update on construction progress at the stadium for those of you that haven't seen the half time updates that MSG has been showing!

We began pouring concrete for the pile caps (concrete foundations for the stadium) on April 17th and have completed about 115 of the 300 required. We anticipate completing the concrete foundation work by the end of June and starting the steel erection in the West Building area at the beginning of July. The plumbers have begun the installation of drain lines below the Locker Room areas in the West Building and will continue around the south side of the stadium as the concrete foundations are completed. The pile driving will finally be completed next week.

RED BULLS VS. CHICAGO PREVIEW

2008-05-23T14:03:00.003-04:00

RBR attended today's training session, and caught up with Mike Magee (a Chicago native) and Luke Sassano to get their thoughts on the match with the Fire

Mike Magee on the match:

Luke Sassano on the match:

In training news, Claudio and Jozy both went through the full session, and should be available for selection for the match. Seth Stammler did not train and is unlikely to be available. David Roth and Oscar Echeverry both participated in the session as they continue to rehab knee injuries. Both are likely a few weeks away still.

What are you thoughts on the match? What do you see the formation looking like? What are your keys to earning a positive result? Are you going to be attending the match? Do you think Osorio not being on the sidelines will effect the play of the Red Bulls at all?

INDIVIDUAL GAME TICKETS PACKS FOR GALAXY MATCH NOW ON SALE

2008-05-23T10:27:00.002-04:00

Individual Game Ticket Packs for the Galaxy game on July 19 are now on sale! Get your tickets now for the return of Beckham, Donovan, and Edson Buddle to the tri-state area to be a part of what should be a great atmosphere at Giants Stadium. Last season's matchup brought out the largest attendance in MLS history and produced a thrilling, 5-4, Red Bulls win.

Over 30,000 tickets have already been distributed for this match, so call today to secure your seats!!

CLICK HERE to order online, or call 1-877-RBSOCCER.

DAVID ROTH ON THE USS KEARSARGE

2008-05-23T09:40:00.004-04:00

David Roth's visit to the USS Kearsarge as part of Fleet Week was featured on the lastest episode of MSG, NY, so hopefully you got a chance to check it out. RBR will try and track down some video of the event, but in the meantime, here are some photos of David onboard the aircraft carrier.

David is in flight gear before boarding the helicopter
that will take him aboard the ship

David is greeted by MSG's Tina Cervasio upon arrival

David interview's the ships doctor

David gets the VIP treatment and a photo op with the USO girls

RESERVE MATCH POSTPONED

2008-05-21T17:44:00.001-04:00

For those of you that had been asking, the New York Red Bulls Reserves match against the Chicago Fire Reserves, scheduled for this weekend, has been postponed. No makeup date has been announced at this time.

NEWS AND NOTES FROM WEDNESDAY'S TRAINING SESSION

2008-05-21T14:24:00.002-04:00

RBR went out to training today and returns with the following report:

1) The team trained in two equally divided groups, with one group going through finishing drills while the other played small sided games. This is a typical Osorio session, as finishing drills and competitive sessions are par for the course from the Red Bulls mentor.

2)Forward Oscar Echeverry participated in the full session for the first time since injuring his knee a month ago. He looked sharp and went through the full session, but it is unlikely that he will be available for selection this week.

3) Midfielder Claudio Reyna was back in training after missing the last two matches. He has been upgraded on the injury report, and if things go well the rest of the week, should be available for selection against the Fire.

4) Gordon Kljestan, brother of Chivas USA midfielder Sasha Kljestan, trained with the team. He also played in the reserve match against the Kansas City Reserves last Sunday, coming off in the 76th minute.

5) Defender Chris Leitch also participated in the full session and seems healthy enough to be available for selection.

6) Midfielder Seth Stammler did not practice.

IN THE NAVY...

2008-05-21T09:37:00.003-04:00

Red Bulls rookie midfielder and two members of the Red Bull Street Team will be part of the Parade of Ships today on the aircraft carrier, USS Kearsarge. This is Fleet Week in New York, and the Red Bull trio helicoptered out to the ship early this morning and will sail with the ship into port in Manhattan. RBR is tagging along with a camera, so hopefully a photo or two will come out and will be posted either later today or tomorrow. We will also do our best to get reaction from Roth and the guys.

The team gets back to work today as the Red Bulls start to prepare for Sunday's match with the Chicago Fire. If you don't have tickets yet, why not?!??!?

Oh yeah, and today is the Champions League final, in case you forgot (however unlikely). Who do you think will win the match? Who will be the hero? Will the English fans behave themselves in Moscow? Will the beleaguered pitch hold up? Give us your thoughts.

RED BULLS ANNOUCE ACADEMY TRYOUTS; HOST A RED BULL TRAINING SESSION

2008-05-20T11:40:00.002-04:00

Tryouts info for the Red Bull U14, U15, U16, and U18 teams was announced recently on the official site. CLICK HERE for more details.

Want to host a Red Bulls training session in your town? CLICK HERE for more information from the official site.

A LOOK BACK AT LA; BORMAN GARNERS GOAL OF THE WEEK NOMINATION

2008-05-19T15:00:00.003-04:00

A large group of Red Bull supporters were at the LA Galaxy game at the Home Depot Center on May 10, and they threw a big party before the match before rooting the club on to a 2-1 victory.

Here is a video of the event:

Also, Borman's Flick-Flop inducing goal has been nominated for the Sierra Mist Goal of the Week.

You can vote for Danleigh (should you see fit) by CLICKING HERE

A CASE OF THE MONDAYS

2008-05-19T12:21:00.002-04:00

The team has the day off today, and some of the players are taking advantage of the day off to make a public appearance. Sinisia and Ricky Schramm are headed up to New Britain, CT to appear at the New Britain Rock Cats minor league baseball game and the team's Soccer Night At The Stadium promotion. The duo will help distribute mini soccer balls to the first 1500 kids (12 and under) and RBR has learned that one of the two will pull a Mr. White and throw out the first pitch before the game. If you are in the area, come and check it out!

Also, with Borman's second goal in as many matches, and with his unique and memorable goal celebration, RBR will be working with Danleigh this week on a name for his "celebration". What we did find out is that the goal celebration is an homage to his father's celebrations following his goals as a professional in South Africa. He speaks about is in this article on the official site. Any suggestions we should run by Danleigh tomorrow?