April 18th will be the first day Jon Conway is eligible to play. The Bulls are now heading into their forth game of the season, with very little to pat themselves on the back for. And though you can’t blame Danny Cepero for the teams current form, it won’t help him when the former starter returns.

This weekend poll asks: What would you do? Does Conway win back his starting spot after a bogus suspension? Or has Cepero and his 2008 heroics secured him the spot? Does it all depend on this weekends results? Share your thoughts ladies and gents . .. .

Let us know what you think. And while you are doing that, don’t forget that I NEED YOUR DYNAMO DISSING PHOTOSHOPS/PICS.

Have a great Holiday Weekend folks. For those fasting, eat hardy come Sunday. For those that aren’t, have a couple of chocolate bunny eggs on my behalf.

Cheers.

This may explain why both have been the stand outs for the team at the defensive end of the field.

My take? If they knew it was an illegal substance, this is well deserved. If it was an honest mistake, then this will highlight the “power” the MLS “players union” has – will they be able to reduce an excessive 10 game fine for a mistake? We shall see.

So let the speculation begin . . . playoff hopes over? Will the Red Bulls lean on Patterson or Cepero to take them to the promised land? And will they be enough? Can the defense take two huge hits like this?

Red Bulls fans – vent below . . . .

img credit: daylife.com

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!

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!

In full, here are the transactions;

- South African Midfielder Danleigh Borman
- Midfielder Kevin Mesa (A Queens Product – REPRESENT! We sign Chris MEgaloudis, and we will be running the show! 718!)
- Goalkeeper Danny Cepero
- Australian Born Goalkeeper Caleb Patterson-Sewell
- Defender John Gilkerson

WHAT TO MAKE OF THIS

Borman is there to do what JPA has been begging for – feeding the attackers the ball. He lead Rhode Island with 7 assists in his final year, and has showed his prowess with some dangerous crosses in preseason action.

I get that one.

John Gilkerson – depth? Ok. Got it. No problem there.

Kevin Mesa has scored during preseason, and has done enough to impress the coaches. Obviously someone thinks he will be a capable back up.

But someone please explain to me why it is we have two keepers on our roster already with Jon Conway and Zach Thornton, and have now resigned Danny Cepero (who has been getting glowing reviews as a keeper since he was signed – even earning the praise of Ronald Waterreus as a potential keeper talent to watch) and Australian born Sewell. What is that about?

THE FINAL CUT?

MLS restrictions clearly define the roster space to be an all inclusive 18 man squad. This leaves very little maneuverability for clubs. With that in mind, we have 4 keepers. Signed.

Who is the going to see the door?

Can it be that the Red Bulls front office is as squeemish as the fans are at the prospect of Jon Conway, Starting Goalkeeper? Has Osorio changed his mind after infamously stating that the keepers job is Conways to lose? Was he overestimating the career long back up, and was the Big Zack signing a way to hedge his bets?

Maybe Juan Carlos Osorio is seeing the massive potential that everyone seems to clamor about when looking at Danny Cepero. In 5 games with the reserve squads, he is 3-2-0 with a 1.00. Not bad for a rook

SO WHATS GOING TO HAPPEN?

It looks like the Bulls are set to make moves. Maybe JCO saw those Carolina games too and found some urgency in our situation. Who knows. But moves are a coming!

Will Conway really be our starter? I would place that bet at 95%.

Will Zach Thornton still be on the team come game 1? With these signings, it may be unliklely. But this is MLS – who knows.

Cross your fingers – if the Conway/Big Zack combo can not get the job done in JCO’s eyes, we may be looking at the beginning of the Danny Cepero era.

Dont ask me about the Australian . . . I dont get it.

What are your thoughts? Should Cepero get the nod over Big Zack? Is Conway ready for the number 1 spot? Lets us know what you think.

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?!

There really is alot to take into account going into Gilette this weekend.

First off, the New England team we saw exiting Giants Stadium with a draw is not the team we will see in Gilette. Thanks, once again, to the horrible playoff rules of this league, the first leg of the home and home is render meaningless, since all the visiting squad has to do is pack the box, play defensive football, and hope for the best. New England did that. And they escaped our home turf in excellent position to strike. Escaped is the key word. And Reis was wiping his brow all night long . . .

Hey, Steve Nicol did say he could neutralize our midfield. I am guessing he was right.

THE LINEUP

Though we looked strong out there, I would be less enthusiastic than mlsnet was in their description of last game – RBNY DOMINATE IN TIE. Lets relax a bit shall we?

Though we once again were playing some variation of a 4-4-2 meets a 4-3-3, I think something more traditional would do the trick.

A clean and even 4-4-2, something where Reyna and Dema could run the middle a bit if necessary.

=========JPA=======ALTIDORE=========
MATHIS===DEMA=====REYNA=====RICHARDS
DVB=====PARKE======STAMMLER==FREEMAN
===========CONWAY=================

Mathis needs to start. It takes a good 10 minutes to get his motors going. He can be subbed if he isnt efficient by the second half. he can drift middle, as always.

DVB can have more room for an open attack.

Stammler in, because of his strong play against New England. I know I have been a Mendes mark all season, but Stammler has earned the spot at this point. After a strong showing, the defense should not be tampered with.

And all in all, look at the balance on either half of the field. I think its a threat on either end.

KEEP YOUR EYES OPEN

Conway barely faced any shots last game. An early bombardment by the home team may be enough surprise to throw us off and take an early advantage.

And what if Waterreus is healthy? Then whom starts?

New England will be much more fluid in attack, and daring in their chances. This will not be a reply of Saturday for damn sure.

Our guys are in a situation where they may have been put to sleep by the opposition. Its like Brazilian football – they lure you in, let you believe you are doing well, . . . . meanwhile, they plot and scheme on the next counter attack, and the minute your guards are down and you are bored out of your mind . . . . BAM! Jogo Bonito.

We cant think we will face the same defensive minded Revolosers this weekend.

We have to be better than that. And we have to be on our toes. Constantly.

KEEP UP THE EMOTION

Did you see Coach Arena jumping out of his seat? Must have been the first time ever for most of us. We need that from our leaders, both on and off the field. Play with passion, but play smart.

==============================================

I will have more as the week goes on, but after 48 hours or so of sulking, its time to move on, and find solutions.

So much for pouring on the pressure.

That lasted one half. The first one.

And clearly, the second belonged to New England (at least, quality goal scoring opportunity wise).

Now, with a tie heading into Gilette, our backs are truly against the wall.

What is it about us playing against the Revolosers?!??!

Jeckyl and Hidden

So, who are we is my question?

Are we the first half juggernauts?

Or are we the second half clueless, grasping at straws, desperation in our eyes football squad?

Before the game, I really tried to drive home the point that TONITE was a night for GOALS! And the first half really drove home the point – Me and Bruce Arena, seamingly, eye to eye on strategy! But then the second half? Oof.

2 Big goose eggs.

Jozy put it best. At halftime, he was asked for his impression on their strong play. He simply said, and I am paraphrasing, “We didnt score so it was all for nothing.”

BRUCE ARENA

BRAVO on the gameplan

BOOS all around for the substitutions.

Sinisa in for Doe? What happened with Mathis?

DVB for Leitch – well . . . what can ya do . . .

But then . . . Mathis for Reyna? In the 85th minute?

Mathis needs some ball time to get something done. He should have been in for Doe. And Reyna could have been subbed for Vide, Drop Kovi in the dominant central mid position.

EDIT: Got another idea for a change at this point. Mathis in for Doe. DVB for Leitch is an unfortunate given. But then, why not Mendes in for Reyna, move Stammler up to Dema’s spot, Dema to Reynas. I dont know. Just did not like the change sequence.

We need the same spirit of the 1st half, in BOTH halves of the next game. If not, we are looking at another early exit.

And if we are in need of a goal yet again, PLEASE do not hesitate to press the CLINT MATHIS button. Because throwing a rookie into a match and expecting a win just isnt logical (unless that rookie is Dane Richards).

SO NOW WHAT?!

We are off to Gilette folks. And we have a week to think about it.

===================================================

PLAYER OF THE GAME: Claudio Reyna held down the middle of the field, and contributed to key defensive stops / step ins.
GAME GOAT: The Substitutes. Sorry. What else can I point at as a negative besides this? Substitutions were not what we needed at the times they were executed. I cant name Arena goat since, besides these subs, he was on the ball.
PLAY OF THE GAME: Matt Reis robs Francis Doe. That was the game.

HERE WE GO AGAIN

FSC: 7:30pm. YOU GOTTA GET IN THE GAME!

For the third time in five years, we face off, in the postseason, against another strong New England team.

For the fourth time this year, these two teams will collide. And the Revodouchers have the season advantage, with 2 wins and 1 tie.

So, as I always love to say, THROW HISTORY OUT THE WINDOW.

The Bulls have an excellent chance at an upset.

Don’t believe me?

Check it . . . booyakasha.

=========================================

EXORCISE THE GHOSTS OF GILLETTE!

There is something about playing in that Northern stinkhole that really does us in.

Clear example? Look no further than last game. We more than held our own, in fact, dare I say, we dominated many periods of that game. But an innocent 40 yard back pass catches Conway sleeping, game over.

Luckily tonites game is in our house. And I hope to see a bunch of you there tonite, nasty weather and all!

We need an explosive effort for the win tonite. A dynamic assembly of defensive smarts coupled with opportunistic offensive play. Watching the DC/FIRE game last night, it seemed that this is what they were missing. If Chicago loses that series, its all their fault. With a one goal lead, they decided to sit back and take the win. But what will happen at DC, with a healthy Emilio and friends heading their attack?

My point is simple – we have to score first, and continue to put on the pressure, but not at the cost of our defense. We need to be DYNAMIC out there.

And this will be the only way to exorcise our Gillette Demons. A multi goal effort tonite, coupled with smart defensive play, will make a trip to New England a little less daunting.

I know. Its so easy for me to say “I want a perfect performance.” But this is New England. And we have the fire power.

BRING OUT THE GUNS

Sure, they have Twellman, Joseph, Noonan and company. But our attack is nothing to sneeze at!

The Incomperable, Every Award Holding, Greatest Acquisition in our clubs history, Juan Pablo Angel. Rising star in the US and Beyond, Jozy Altidore. We have the speed and attack of a Francis Doe and a Dane Richards. And off the bench? Our miracle man, Clint Mathis, and fan fave, John Wolyniec.

Of course, Michael Parkhurst, John Avery, James Riley, Shalrie Joseph, Matt Reis and the rest of their squad will be guarding the gates. Tenaciously. But we have the tools, more so than any other year, to find the seams in their attack and create opportunities.

The last game killed me. We played so well. Hell, we OUT PLAYED THEM.

In that game, we saw that this team is more than capable of taking on New England IN New England. Tonite, our attack needs to make a statement so we nullify their suppossed “home field advantage.”

MY PROJECTED LINEUP

==========ANGEL======ALTIDORE==========
DOE===========================RICHARDS
==========DEMA=======REYNA============
DVB=======PARKE=======MENDES=====FREEMAN
=============CONWAY==================

With everyone being healthy, and having a core here that has played together for longer stretches in the season, I think this would be our best option.

Doe will add a difficult element for New England to cover. He can be the difference between a blowout and a horserace. If Does on fire, Angel and Altidore open up. If not, well, we make the Revs lives easier.

Of course, the other option would be Dema at the Left flank, and either Stammler or Vide by Reyna. But, I think offense is important this game. Give Doe a Go! (ooh . . . . time to make t-shirts!)

===========================================

PREDICTION:
You want optimism? RBNY 3 – 1 REVOLUTION. Come on boys. We need a big win tonite.

1 – Altidore
1 – Angel
1 – Richards

. . . . and an own goal. hahahaa