Random Thoughts On Red Bulls Opening Win V. Santos

By: Dave Martinez | March 22nd, 2010

esc Sometimes, even a thorough post game summary needs elaboration. And that is how I feel this morning folks. There is just so much to say about the stadium, and so little room to do it. It was a magical evening in every sense of the word. And to leave anything out would be a crime.

So without further ado, here are some Random Thoughts on the game:

- TIM REAM AND MIKE PETKE have an understanding. And it seems that it is an understanding that goes both ways. Ream was so confident and composed on the ball, even when Santos was attacking. His ability to find that elusive first pass, especially under pressure, was impressive. Ream has a natural confidence on the ball that is just difficult to teach. Likewise, Petke had an inspired game, spear headed by an impressive and well deserved goal. Perhaps the veterans words of wisdom are unlocking doors with the youngin’. Perhaps Reams youthful enthusiasm is bringing Petke back from his younger days. Whatever the winning formula is, the organization between them was breathtaking, and it set the tone for the entire backline.
- DANE RICHARDS. When I interviewed the Jamaican speed demon for ASN, there was a different vibe there, and I told him so. Dane has his business face on folks. And hopefully, barring any severe injuries, he will be able to play up to his potential under Hans Backe (more on this topic can be heard on the next Seeing Red! podcast. Count on it.)
- IBRAHIM SALOU . . . is a player. For those that felt he was on the ground alot, think about it; he was being hacked by the defenders every chance he made for the net. He made the defense squirm, and made a positive impression in my book.
- SANTOS underestimated the Bulls.
- BOUNA COUNDOUL . . . has secured his starting spot moving forward.
- THE URINALS . . . in the mens bathroom stink. I am sorry. When the new Yankees Stadium opened, one of the most welcoming sights was the bathroom (believe it or not). I hate having to rub elbows with the guy peeing next to me. I hate the idea of someone elses pee splash hitting my foot while trying to aim into a tiny porcelain basket with no barriers between to protect us. Sorry. Too Euro for my tastes.
- BUT ON THE POSITIVE SIDE . . . at least it didn’t stink of pee a la Giants Stadium sink holes.
- JOEL LINDPERE is the central attacking midfielder this team has been looking for. He is tenacious on the ball, and you need not look at a better example than his effort after his kick was met with a Santos wall, only to find the rebound and the goal for the Arena’s first ever tally. The Estonian is the real deal.
- 4-4-2 is greater than 4-5-1
- CHEMISTRY was the name of the game yesterday, as the Bulls completed long passes, short passes, blind passes, passes into open space, passes in confined space, passes that left people breathless and passes that ultimately made Santos FC look Bush League.
- PARKING sucked. But we were warned. But it sucked. But we were warned many times. But it REALLLLLLLY sucked.
- ROY MILLER is a true left back. Those overlapping runs were delicious. And when the team really begins to read each other, that weapon will be critical in dismantling the opposition.
- BIG MAC KANDJI didn’t look like a guy coming out of a long layoff, did he? He was threatening up top, smooth in his transitions, easy on the pass and effective with the ball at his feet. Kudos to the big man who is expecting big things this season.
- FIREWORKS rule.
- CARL ROBINSON fits into this system like a glove. He is the bite this team has been missing since Dema Kovalenko.
- CBA. There is a deal. Did you hear?!
- SINISA . . . has also come in as a dark horse favorite this season. Many of the best breakout passes came off of his foot. Yet, somehow, he is always good for one or two brainfarts a game. Either way, a much improved performance over last season already!
- LINDSEY VONNwears a pair of black plether pants very well. Did anyone else notice that the Red Bull Racing car was carrying junk in the trunk?