US Open Cup: RBNY Seeks Revenge In DC

By: Dave Martinez | May 20th, 2009

Revenge. It is a word that envelopes tonights clash between DC United and the Red Bulls in this next round of US Open Cup Competition. The long time rivals have a lot to play for. DC United comes in defending Cup champions. Red Bulls come in angry and hungry, giving up two goals in extra time to lose the lead and the game against DC only a few weeks ago.

Though the Bulls have traditionally taken this competition for granted, this particular game promises to provide a competitive battle. Osorio entered the season with the specific goal of having a deep enough team that can be competitive on all fronts in this congested schedule. With a win against San Jose only a few weeks ago, his theory has passed its first test. Now, with tempers flaring, it will be interesting to see just how relentless the Bulls attack can be, especially on the road.

Here is my stab at a lineup:

======Wolyniec===Oduro============
Rojas=======================Mbuta
=======Pietravallo=Sassano==========
Borman====Boyens=Mendes=======Hall
==========Cepero=================

Rojas is eligible for US Open Cup competition despite his red card in league play. I wouldn’t expect to see the regular defensive unit for this one, as I am sure they are being rested for this weekends Chicago Fire game. Besides, Borman has done an excellent job filling in for Pacheco, and Boyens has been interchangable as a starter and a bench option, as have Mendes and Hall. If anything, the Bulls would probably use Kandji to give the offense a bit of a kick.

Time has been short, and the Bulls are still licking their wounds. To be perfectly honest, I wouldn’t be surprised to see a few more starters out there. It just depends on how bad New York wants it.

On a side note, I’ll be trying to dig up some info on a livecast (so we all don’t have to sit in front of a computer and read the game), if one exists, so stay tuned.

(Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images North America)