Similarly, the Red Bulls have been mired by losses all season. The team has been playing behind for the better part of the campaign, and the situation just keeps getting worse and worse. Much like the Galaxy, the team has tried everything and is running out of ideas to achieve success. As Donovan alluded to, it is during these hard times that leaders are needed most.

So leadership has now become a question amongst the struggling teams fan base. The Post Soccer Blog recently interviewed a fuming Mike Petke, who shed some light on the subject.

From the Post:

“Juan Pablo leads by example. You can say whatever you want about him not scoring goals this year, but he’s a guy that leads by example,” Petke said. “If guys like Mac (Kandji) and (Matt) Mbuta followed him around the whole year and did what he did, these guys’d be superstars, or have the opportunity to be. Juan is one of the best captains I ever had.

Strong words of support from the passionate Long Islander. But Petke isn’t beloved by the fan base without reason. His ability to speak his heart has always made him a person for the team to rally around as well.

“It’s not about soccer anymore the rest of the season. Its about heart, it’s about how you want to be remembered. It’s about where you want to go as a person. Do you want to be a loser? I don’t want to be a loser,” Petke said.

If you weren’t already endeared with Petke, you will be after you take in the rest of the interview. Take a minute and click the link above.

Not to be outdone, the bastion for all things New York soccer, BAS, has an interview with Kevin Goldthwaite (another must read!).

Goldthwaite is a bit of an unsung hero around these parts. For the better part of the past two years, “Goldie” has been one of the most positive contributors to the team, but a past which included some less than inspirational play on the Bulls defensive flanks cast a shadow on his accomplishments. Slowly but surely, through his fight and determination, he has managed to earn his respect with the fan base and media. Goldthwaite has found himself in an unexpectedly natural center back role, anchoring and directing the backline, which has been under attack all season. The maturity on the field seems to be translating in the locker room.

From BAS:

“Your pride has to take over when the playoffs are out of the picture. At that point, if anyone has given up, I’ll probably be the first one to call him out on it.”

Though the season may already be a lost cause, it is good to know there are players in the locker room that still care, and believe.

The frustration is finally reaching a boiling point all around. And the muzzle on the seasons misgivings, if only for a brief moment, have been lifted. What has been revealed is a team that is at a loss for answers, with a group of leaders that are desperately trying to coral the herd and get them back on course.

This bye week may be exactly what the team needed. The schedule for this season has been a challenge in itself, featuring large clusters of time at home, but equally large clusters away. A few days off to reflect on the season, the failures experienced on their recent road trip, and the passionate words of their team leaders may do them a lot of good.

But only time will tell.

Image Credit: (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)

That’s right. Mouthed off.

He will be unavailable an additional two games and has been fined $500 bucks for the infraction. And don’t forget; Kevin Goldthwaite is out for tomorrows game with yellow card accumulation.

Insane.

What more can I say? Maybe you guys can help me think of what Petke may have said that could have been so egregious!

A three game verbal ban. How laughable.

(Photo by Robert Giroux/Getty Images)

Jorge Rojas, 30, a Venezuelan National veteran with 78 caps to his name, and the infamous Chris Innes, former captain of the bankrupt and dying Gretna FC of SPL, are now on trial with the Red Bulls.

I knew there was a reason I waited till the 13th hour to put up my season preview . . .

Jorge Rojas, whom, if I recall correctly (should google this), assisted and scored a goal in 2 games against Haiti recently, is a left back or left wing – two positions we have coveted for quite some time. If everything falls into order, Rojas would be our starting left winger, moving Dave Van Den Bergh to the CAM role, and Claudio Reyna could join Seth Stammler for a devastating twosome in front of our defenders.

Now that is a step up!

As for Innes, he is actually participating in team training as I write this. He was a major reason for Gretna’s spell in the SPL from ‘05 – ‘08, being largely credited for the ascension into the big leagues of SPL, and being largely credited for their demotion (but only because he was injured during certain spells).

Though Goldie and Leitch played admirably against the Cows, a person of Innes reputation and credentials should be afforded the opportunity to see what he can do. Sure, people downplay the talent or talent level of the SPL, but how many do the same to the MLS? Who know – Chris Innes may be that missing piece to the puzzle that will create the formidable backline we have been dreaming of.

IMAGINE . . .

With these signings (cross those fingers!), they will have a team that could take them to the Cup.

——-Angel—-Altidore——–
———-Dave VDB————
Rojas——————–Richards
——–Reyna—Stammler——-
—-Innes—-Parke—-Freeman—
———-Conway—————

Appetizing no? DVB, as displayed Saturday, has no fear of taking a shot. He will be backed up by Magee. Reyna and Stammler will compliment a solid and experienced backline, which will make 1st year starter Jon Conways life much easier. The wing play, when healthy, will be some of the best in the league (backed by two solid rookies in Borman and Sassano). And with those starting three, we can have a bench with Goldthwaite, Leitch, Mendes and Brunner.

Not bad at all (especially in a league notorious for very little quality depth).

Looks like we may be flexing that allocation money-muscle after all!

An early surge that included a beautifully placed Dave Van Den Bergh strike to the bottom right corner, and the mess that resulted in a Goldthwaite tap in was all we needed to take this one away from the Cows.

And btw – it seems that the idea of filling out the stadium on one side is working – the atmosphere was excellent. And major props to the EMPIRE SUPPORTERS CLUB for doing what they do best – singing songs and making noise.

But lets get back to the topic:

MAN (men) OF THE MATCH:

This one is a tie. Kevin Goldthwaite and Chris Leitch had tremendous games. Watching Leitch shut down Schelotto to the point of ineffectiveness, and the bite Goldie had on the pitch (punctuated by his goal) reassured this Bulls fan that not all is lost.

And it also answered one of my Preseason Preview questions – Osorio, in this first game, is making alot of the talent currently on the squad, against a team with a win under its belt already.

TURNING POINT OF THE MATCH

The Goldthwaite Goal. And how not? Sure, DVB set the tone for the night with his laser guided (though not laser fast) shot, but that Goldthwaite goal was deflating. It made every corner, every set piece, that much more dangerous looking to the opposition, causing them to fall back. Psychological victory indeed.

WHAT THE?! MOMENT OF THE MATCH

This weeks WHAT THE?! moment came in the second half. Juan Pablo Angel lines up for a well deserved PK shot . . . and Hesmer turned him aside. And it was a good cracker if I do say so myself. Oh well. Much like Haleys Comet, I dont plan on seeing that again for another 75 years . . .

SPECIAL ED PLAYER OF THE MATCH

Sinisa Ubiparapovic. Honestly, he looked lost. Lack of playing time? Maybe. But his passes were really mind benders. I was with a complete soccer novice tonite, and she actually leaned over and asked me “Why did he just pass it to the other team?” I said, “It was a mistake.” To which she replied “Another mistake? He did the same thing 2 seconds ago . . . ”

EDIT: In fairness, Sinisa did catch Schelotto by surprise with a tricky turnover that led to the first DVB goal.

It hurts the mind. Hence, Special Ed Player of the Match.

OVERALL:

Fun time, great atmosphere, and an excellent exclamation point of a win. Look out Dallas . . . you are next.

Welcome to game 1! We are dealing with some injuries, starting up to 2 rookies, and are beginning our season a week ahead of everyone else. Good times.

The Cows are in town, headed by Schelotto, Moreno and Gaven.

Let the Mini Clasico Begin!

CURRENT STANDING:

We havent even played a game yet.
But whatever. Here goes:

……………………….PTS
Chicago ……………..4
Columbus ……………3
Kansas City …………3
New England ………..3
New York …………..0
D.C. United …………0
Toronto FC …………0

INJURIES:

Jozy Altidore – Day to Day – Bruised Knee
Hunter Freeman – 6-8 weeks – MCL
Dane Richards – 3 months – MCL

PROJECTED LINEUP:

=======Angel====Echeverry=======
Borman=====Reyna=======Sassano
====Van Den Bergh==Stammler======
===Goldthwaite==Parke===Mendes===
==========Conway==============

BEHIND THE SCENES:

+ This game is referred to by many as the “Mini Clasico” with respect to the legendary River/Boca derby. This is based on the fact that Juan Pablo Angel was a River Plate player, and Schelotto, a Boca Legend.

+ Reports out of Montclair are that Jozy Altidore has hurt his knee. He is questionable for the season opener. This now makes three Red Bull players whom have succumbed to injury preseason, including Dane Richards and Hunter Freeman.

+ Red Bulls / Metrostars have never scored a complete three point opening game in their history.

KEY MATCHUPS:

Borman and Sassano v. Hejduk and Migliorenzi

The rookies take on a fierce tandem tonight. Hejduk is a stifling defender that will, as always, cause fits throughout the game. Migliorenzi has had a good preseason and is said to have matured greatly.

Borman will most likely be on a short leash if he shows a lack of pace – expect Dave Van Den Bergh to either move in, or Magee to come off the bench if this is the case.

Sassano has the tremendous task of replacing the speedy Dane Richards. Though he did show signs of brilliance this preseason, he must do it consistently against this tandem.

Echeverry and Angel v. O-Rourke and Marshall

With Altidore out, and two rookie wingers ready to start, Angel will have to rely on his creative skills more so than the ability of the wings crosses to net himself a goal. Former Metro O’Rourke and young stud Chad Marshall will be playing an extremely physical game with Angel for the full 90. The target will consistently be on him.

That is where Echeverry will be needed. Assuming he gets the nod over Wolyniec or Magee, Ech needs to create enough of an offensive distraction to free Angel from the assured abuse he will receive.

Schelotto v. Mendes

Nuff said. Schelotto is a crafty veteran with a deadly, pin point accurate cross. Mendes is a young defender learning his expanded responsibilities on the right side of a three man back line. It can be a recipe for disaster, or a proving ground for our young back. Cross your fingers.

PREDICTION:

Red Bulls end their winless home opener streak, taking the Cows to Pasture, 3-2.

Goals by:
+ Dave Van Den Bergh
+ Juan Pablo Angel (2)
+ Guillermo Barros Schelotto
+ Eddie Gaven

Let me begin by saying – this is completely based on the team as currently configured. I know April 15th is right around the corner, and 2 signings can change everything, but this is the current situation.

With that said . . .

Lets begin with a Haiku . . .

Red Bulls 2008

We place all our hope
Into Osorio’s plan
May he guide wisely

SEASON PREDICTION:

12 wins 11 loses 7 ties (3rd in the East, 43 pts., Semi Final finish)

KEY ACQUISITIONS:

Juan Carlos Osorio (new head coach)
Zach Thornton
Oscar Echeverry
Eric Brunner
Luke Sassano
Danleigh Borman

KEY PLAYERS RELEASED:

Dema Kovalenko (you will be missed)
Clint Mathis (ditto)
Ronald Watterreus
Markus Schopp (not exactly KEY, but . . . )
Santino Quaranta (ditto Schopp)
Joe Vide (underrated, well trained CDM who will also be missed)

SEASON PREVIEW:

Nuts and bolts :

We left you last season at yet another brick wall performance against the team I love to hate – The New England Revo-losers.

There were our glaring weaknesses on display, for all to see. Lack of wing play. Mediocre play from our defensive wings. Absolutely no service to the most dangerous forward tandem in the MLS. And a big fat 0 on the goal side.

The list began to be compiled – we need an attacking mid, we need a left back, we need more service from the wings. We need, we need, we need.

So, in an attempt to better our course, we dumped Bruce Arena after a less than glorious reign as coach. In comes Juan Carlos Osorio, magic man who brought the Chicago Fire back from the dead (though I am sure there was some guy named Blanco who helped out situations). And all hopes were heaped on his shoulders.

The signings have been slim. The cuts have been drastic.

And here we are, days away from the first game of the season.

How much have things really changed?

The Stars

As previously mentioned, we feature the Dynamic Duo of MLS forwards – Jozy Altidore and Juan Pablo Angel (dont ask me who is Robin . . . ). Maybe 10 years ago, having that was enough to win an MLS Cup. But in this parity ridden league, you need strength on all ends.

In comes Captain America, Claudio Reyna. Reyna enjoyed a less than stellar year, with reports of a tumultuous relationship with Coach Arena making matters worse. Pile on injuries to this mediocre stew and you have Claudio Reyna, 2007.

2008, however, carries a more positive tone. Reports early and often have praised Reynas play on the field, where he is being asked to play a bit of CDM, his natural position, and CAM, the categorical opposite. And it seems he has been excelling in both areas, even if this display wasn’t quite visible in Carolina (last two games were sleepers, but he did play well in the first).

These are the teams stars, people who we will be relying heavily to carry this team.

The New Comers

Um. Zach Thornton and Oscar Echeverry. So we have depth at goal and the attacking spot.

Besides them, there is this years slew of draftees, headed by Luke Sassano and Danleigh Borman, both who may see time on the pitch as starters. Borman showed some magic in his crosses preseason. Sassano, grit. It will be interesting to track their development as the season commences.

But the most exciting new comer is Juan Carlos Osorio. He takes the cake. And he is carrying this teams expectations squarley on his shoulders.

Keep an eye on

Jon Conway. If anyone on the team is in the position of making this team float or flounder, its Conway. A life long career back up, many Bulls fans are skeptical of his ability to maintain his cool under pressure, come up with the big save, or simply maintain concentration on the pitch. Displays like last years Mendes back pass, or more recently with the mystery goal TFC’s Cunningham scored in the Carolina Cup that was in Conways hands, have fans begging for answers and hoping for the best. This will be Conways job to lose – all season long.

We’ll win the league if…

We avoid injuries, sign a key defender (Chris Innes), or a solid CDM to allow Reyna the CAM position (Lider Marmol). With them, and a healthy Dane Richards and Hunter Freeman, we will have the depth and talent to succeed.

We’ll be in trouble if…

We run into injuries. Why? Our depth cant take it. We will already be without Dane Richards till Summer. Ditto Freeman. We can not afford to plug in holes with rookie players. One more injury, and we will be looking at the Chris Leitches and John Gilkersons of the world to patch us up (in fairness, Leitch has looked ok this preseason).

The Beckham Factor

Will still be strong this season. If he stays healthy.

You might not know . . .

+ Play by Play of NY away games are done in studio, away from the field action.

+ Jozy Altidore had an offer from Reading as an immediate starter – and he rejected it.

+ Our only trophy? The La Manga Cup – a Soccer Resort in Spains club team preseason tourney

+ The logo featured above is the 2007 logo. I couldnt find the new, non-streaky one.

+ I am a Gemini!

Once again, Bulls fans everywhere were treated to a snoozefest of a preseason tournament game, as we managed to tie the supposed “lowly” TFC 1-1. And in doing so, we helped clinch this years tournament winner, the San Jose “We are Expansion, Remember?” Earthquakes. Sigh. We produced possibly one half of semi professional soccer. Thats it.

That aside, I realize “snoozefest” and “preseason tourney” are synonymous. I get it. But this team needs a motivational kick in the behind after 2-3 years of uncertain footing and certain mediocrity.

While Richie Williams has been coaching our sidelines, JCO is off in my homeland of Argentina, scouting talent, and by god, I hope he finds a gem (Maybe he can speak to Ariel Ortega, offer him a six pack and a 6 digit contract?). After watching what we have seen, with less that 2 weeks till our teams MLS debut, there is a lot to be desired.

These are some high (and low) lights of last nights 1-1 draw with the Mo-ple Leafs of TFC:

Some positives to build on . . .

+ I loved the fact that we were able to hold on to possesion for long clips of time, and that the pressure added up to a few crucial corners (which we couldnt convert, but still). If we continue to push up like that all season, we will find a few gems here or there to put in the back of the net.

+ Though we fell into the offside trap 841285198513813185153 times, we were at the very least attacking at all times.

+ Reyna, though he had a few micues, and bad passes this game, is filling the role of field general nicely. He is constantly shouting instruction to the backline, points to seams for the younger guys (Sassano), and in one glaring exhibition of leadership, within the first 10 minutes, he was moving the ball up, and Carlos Mendes was simply standing at his right hand side, not following the play. Reyna URGED him to move up. And when the play was over, Reyna was in Mendes ear about not doing enough. That is something we need more of from our Captain. Besides that, he played a major role in the tying goal, he had a few excellent crosses and perfectly placed corners that simply could not be converted.

+ Sassano also showed those flashes of brilliance that were rumored all offseason. Though he was silent in Charleston, he was loud and involved in last nights game. His memorable moment was a breaking move on the right hand side of the box, where he cut up 2-3 men to take a terribly weak shot from point blank range. Much like Richards last year, we must excercise patience with the kid, and it may pay dividends. He threw in some great crosses, and some not so much. Patience is key. He may be someone special to us this year (especially with Dane gone)

+ Do I really have to say Juan Pablo Angel played well? Doesnt he always? After getting fouled hard around the 35th minute or so, he retaliates, draws a yellow, and has a chip on his shoulder the rest of the game. Though he couldnt quite convert on his chances, Juanpi was more than a handful for TFC, and the attention they drew towards him left more playing room for an Etchevarry or Wolyniec to operate.

. . . And some Negatives to forget . . .

+ I, like many other Red Bulls fans, fear that Jon Conway, a career backup, can be the crux to our season. Last night, though a preseason game, reminded us all of that fear. Much like the infamous 40 yard back pass from Mendes to Conway that resulted in a goal, last nights 10th minute Cunningham score reminded Bulls fans everywhere of the oddity that is Jon Conway. Cunningham pushed the ball upfield, Conway has a beat on him with the final touch, gets his hands on the ball, and in an instance of pure confusion, Cunningham somehow gains control of this bobbled ball and taps it into the net. Ooooooof. Please, let this not be an omen of the new season. Though I know Big Zack can cover half the net just standing there, we cant rely on him to save our behinds this season.

+ Stammler looked very good, reliable, and focused out there most of the night. His one mental gaffe nearly cost us. As he held the ball, a streaking Samuel stripped him of possesion badly, and proceeded to completely divide and conquer our defense straight through the middle, and he takes a shot on goal, just wide of Conways left. That whole sequence looked too relaxed, as if TFC purposely lulled us to bed, and was looking for that one sneak attack. I am telling you – it could have been the difference between a 1-1 tie and a 2-1 thrashing.

+ One of my favs, Mike Magee, was EERILY quiet – so much so he was taken out for Borman to start the second half. Its a wonder to me what happened, but Magee can not afford more games like this.

+ The yet to be signed Etchevarry was also eerily quiet, or ineffective. How many times did he walk it into the box, with numbers, and either take an ill advised shot, or get stripped in the middle of a juke? Hell they bought in goal scorer supreme John Wolyniec to INFUSE some life into the offense. Not a good night for our potential CAM.

+ Woly was inside the box, all alone. What does he do? Well, his best Pele impersonation of course! Woly starts to dribble the ball between his legs to juke nobody. As the keeper moves up to stop what will eventually be a shot, the defenseman, who was about 15 yards away when Woly broke loose, caught up to the play, and helped block Wolys feable 2 – inches – from – the – keeper shot. Horrible. Thank goodness he netted the game tying goal.

+ The play of our wing defensemen, Mendes and Goldthwaite, was targeted again this game, and again, both men looked very shaky. Admitedly, I am not a huge fan of Goldthwaites playing style, but I have no bias towards Mendes, who simply is not showing the passion we have seen from him in the past. Jeff Parke is the only one really standing tall and holding those back three together.

+ Though corners were plentiful, they werent netted for points. That needs to change.

THE ROUND UP:

We need some stability on the wings. We need more patience and killer instinct in the box. We need some depth.

Now its time for JCO to see what kind of product we really have, and how badly we need an infusion of talent. Lets put that extra cap money to use, shall we? Before the season starts?!

BREAKING NEWS:

Micheal Lewis at Big Apple Soccer is reporting Dane Richards has suffered a mild MCL tear in a 1-0 Red Bulls loss against the Salzburg reserves. It seems that the contest was a “chippy” affair . . .

An excerpt from the article:

What transpired did not surprise Red Bulls captain and midfielder Claudio Reyna, who played in Germany for several seasons.

“I played in Germany and this is how it is always with Germans and Austrians, diving and cheats,” he said. “It’s how they are. That’s how they always play. It’s a shame.”

I will be updating you on the severity as we move forward, but this can put a major crux in our plans this season . . .

HEADLINES:

+ Claudio Reyna has been reported overall to be the top performer at camp. Whether it has been as a CAM or in his normal CDM position, his passing, vision and instincts seem to dwarf the achievements of the rest of the team. That is exactly what you would expect from your Captain, and leader.

Last season, I jumped off the Reyna bandwagon late in the season. He is a personal favorite of mine. And it killed me to do so.

This year, The Red Bulls Offside has thrown our (my) support back onto Reyna. We need him. Alot. And Captain America, under the new regime, will thrive. We hope.

+ Dave Van Den Bergh has also earned praise from Osorio as a viable option for the CAM position. I can see that happening. DVB is just too slow for the wing play. But a CAM? make a few tight passes, looking for opportunity . . . not bad.

+ Our best combination in Osorios 3 back scheme seems to be Goldthwaite, Parke and Mendes. Ives actually feels its Goldies job to lose.

What of Eric Brunner then? Well, he has been given good grades, but is a bit green, especially in such a heavily reliant 3 back position. So, the unforeseen seems to be occuring – Kevin Goldthwaite – starter. Wow.

+ Lider Marmol, a Paraguayan Midfielder (CM, CDM) has been turning heads at Salzburg, including firing a 30 yard blast in an interscrimmage game. Looks like a keeper! The problem? Chicago is rumored to have a discovery claim on him. Ah what a tangled web . . . .

+ Also in camp is Mexican CAM Jesus Mendoza, who is suffering from Mexico Primeraitis – he cant get adjusted to the rough and tumble, keep posession or get tackled game play of the MLS. From Lewis and Ives perspective, it seems that he has a long way to go to impressing the club.

+ I PREDICTED IT! Steve Cangiolosi will be joining Shep Messing in the booth. Yea, no brainer, but I DID GET IT RIGHT!

+ And by the way, Today is the compliance deadline for the salary cap. So good luck Alexi Lalas

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

If there is any news on Dane Richards, I will be right there giving you the latest. This news is giving me a case of the MOOOONDAYS.

So the games were over! After I received a thorough beating in FIFA 08, we went off to chat a little bit about gaming, his soccer future, as well as the current state of the Red Bulls and more. Enjoy!




FIFA 08



DM: So, first of all, congrats on being the cover boy for FIFA 08! How does it feel?

JOZY: Its great, definitely an honor to be (cover boy) on a game that I’ve followed for so many years, you know, especially being along side Ronaldihno and Ochoa, two great players . . . its a real honor.

DM: So, after that thorough beating, I suppose you have played FIFA for a long time?

JOZY: I’ve been playing FIFA since roughly 96.

DM: I remember playing with pure National teams back then . . . USA, Argentina . . . any old school fav’s?

JOZY: No not really, I dont remember man, I would mostly play European teams . . . like I said, Ive been playing a long time.

DM: And what did you think about your characters portrayal in FIFA 07 as compared to 08?

JOZY: I was in 07?

DM:Yea, you were actually added on later to the game in most newer versions. I think you had like a 50 rating.

JOZY: Look at that. And in one season I made up 18 points!

DM: So your happy with the way your character came out for this game?

JOZY: Oh absolutely, I am happy, and its fun. I am a threat, constant, every 90 minutes. . . . I love it. Im happy.

DM: Yea, and from your earlier display, JP Angel is always sitting there at the slot waiting to get those rebounds!

JOZY: Yea, its gonna be a really good combination.

DM: Yea, really good combination.




THE PAST YEAR



DM: So tell me Jozy, its been a crazy year. I mean, look at where you are now! I remember you coming in late last year, debuting against DC, then Columbus, and now you are here, cover boy for the new FIFA. What has this last year meant to you?

JOZY: Oh its meant the world to me. Its been a rollercoaster year of highs and lows, its been great. Actually, this is just the beginning. I want to still go alot longer in my career, and do alot more big things.

DM: Absolutely. A good example of that was the Under 20’s (World Cup). What was your experience with the Under 20 like?

JOZY: Great. It was a great experience at the World Cup. To play with the best people, my age, I took alot from it. I loved it.

DM: I am sure that in this time, you had some words with Adu about his future, considering that he was looking at the move overseas, and in turn, yours. Did he have any friendly advice or insight. for you as you begin development, and growth in the international scene?

JOZY: He just told me to stay up, stay on top, and keep playing well. And as for him, you know, I am very proud of him. He has come a long way. He is in Europe now . . .

DM: Yea, he got a goal a week or two ago . . . .

JOZY: Yea, playing for a great team.




HIS DEVELOPMENT WITH RBNY



DM: Absolutely. So you are showing tremendous growth with the team this season. What would you contribute that to?

JOZY: Red Bull has been very supportive of me, being patient with me . . . . and they are very confident of my abilities, on and off the field. That along with the support of my family and teammates has really helped out my growth.

DM: More specifically, this season, there has been a noticeable difference in your first touch and finish. Which coach, player, person, what have you, has contributed most to this?

JOZY: Well I think John Harkes has been huge helping me throughout (my development). You know, he helped me man, along with Claudio and Juan Pablo. I mean, you see everyday in soccer . . . if that first touch is good . . . if you have a good first touch on half the plays, it will leave you in good goal scoring positions. Those guys have helped me alot.

DM: Absolutely, and funny you mention it, but I was going to ask specifically about Mathis, Reyna, Angel – how have they helped you in your development and in the development of this team?

JOZY: They have been huge. They know alot about the game. They are veterans of the game. They just explain to me all the little things I need to do to be effective. You know, with that, I use those tools to improve upon my game

DM: Hows your relationship with the organization, Coach Bruce . . .

JOZY: Oh, first class relationship with all my teammates, coaches, players, trainers, workers, office workers, water boys, altar boys. *chuckles* Nah, I am good with everybody. I love this organization. That is my home right now, and hopefully will be for a little bit longer.

DM: Ok, some quick questions for ya. Who is your favorite person to hang with on the team?

JOZY: OH MAN! Dane Richards is my boy man. Champion lifestyle, we both live it!

DM: Favorite place to play?

JOZY: I’de say Giants Stadium.

DM: Really?

JOZY: Seriously. I dont have a problem with it. The fans are starting to file in. Its really not a bad atmosphere.




CURRENT STATE OF RBNY


DM: Well, turning our attentions to the season on hand, you guys started off on fire. Then you cooled off significantly. Then emotions ran high again for the Beckham game, only for us now to be mired in a 7 game winless streak. What do you attribute that to?

JOZY: Well, we have had alot of injuries. We are finally getting healthy again, and I think, when healthy, this team is one of the better teams in the league. Now, come the playoff time, its what alot of people are worried about. We are worried about these last three games, but we are also worried about getting our place ready for the playoffs and what we will go up against.

DM: Sure. Now having your destiny in your own hands against TFC, does it bother you on any level to have backed into the playoffs the way you did, or is just being there enough?

JOZY: Not at all. I mean, us being the playoffs right now without having a win is due to what we did early, you know. Opening the season was huge for us, I mean, beating a bunch of top teams like Dallas and Houston, and those big wins came into play . . . now. Had we lost those games or dropped those games, right now, we wouldn’t be in the position we are in right now.

DM: So there really isnt much of a preference for an opponent?

JOZY: No no preference. To me, every team is about the same in the league. Some play better together, you know, as others do better than others. I mean, I think we can beat any team, any time . . . .

DM: I can imagine . . . On an off note, alot of us Red Bull fans are afraid your leaving us bro . . .

JOZY: I am not going anywhere really. I am comfortable right now with Red Bull and there is no rush for me to leave this great organization.

DM: Well, one more question before our times up . . . playoff predictions?

JOZY: Playoffs? Um. I think, you know, if Red Bull . . . if we sit down, and really come together . . . and really realize what we have at hand here with the playoffs . . . . . I think, you know, I wouldnt be surprised if we win the MLS Cup

DM: Yes! That is what we want to here man! Jozy, thanks again, a great interview. We appreciate your time.

JOZY: Anytime man . . . .

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In the end . . . .

Need I say i was impressed? Jozy is 17 by number only. And we are lucky to have him on our side (club and country!).

I hope you all enjoy the write up and the interview. Leave any comments below (btw, I know alot of you are getting filtered – dont worry. “they” are working on it)




Pick up FIFA, head to the last home game of the season, OCTOBER 13th v. THE WIZARDS, and lets give the boys a proper pick me up before the playoffs come along!