The Bulls Limp Into Washington (or Herniated Discs 3 – Red Bulls 0)

By: Dave Martinez | June 13th, 2008

The derby is back!

Red Bulls face DC United this week, in what is always a highly contested and battled game (Saturday 7:30 on MSG and HDnet).

Unfortunately, we are limping into the Lions Den, and the scent of blood is definitely in the air. Claudio Reyna is still injured. According to BAS, he received an epidorel shot to his hamstring, and was pain free for the first time in forever. But he is still expected to miss the next two games with his herniated disc either way.

One DP. Down.

Juan Pablo Angel is also expected to miss two games with his herniated disc. The difference? Juan has two discs that are giving him problems.

Two DP’s. Down.

Seth Stammler has been a beast, filling in Dema Kovalenko’s old slot with the team nicely. But guess what? The Herniated Disc Monster has taken him down as well.

Three excellent players? Down.

Oh and Jozy is gone to.

Four.

Now DC United is knocking on the door, showing signs of life after two consecutive and decisive wins against Chicago away and TFC at home. Luciano Emilio is beginning to awaken from a seasons long slumber. And they are starting to show signs of cohesion again.

Meanwhile, the Red Bulls continue to ride a wave of mediocrity, with a record just over .500. An ugly win last week against Chivas can be a start of something good, but it will take more than just solid defense and counterattack to match DC.

An injury plagued Red Bulls squad has stayed in games nearly all season by the skin of their teeth, waiting for the right moment to strike, and hope that would be enough for a win. DC has been underachieving most all season, struggling to find chemistry with their newest pieces. If ever there was a statement game for either team, this would be it.