Dallas, Here We Come

Despite playing them just days ago during the Great Monsoon of 2007, RBNY are headed to Dallas tomorrow night to wrap up heir season series with the team I will continue to call the Burn, only because that name is so terrible that I sort of miss it. (You know, like “MetroStars,” except not really.)

The Red Bulls will face Dallas without the suspended Clint Mathis, and all sign point to a 4-5-1 formation with Stammler sliding in alongside Dema to protect Reyna, who will push a bit further forward to support Jozy and play distributor. A fit (fingers crossed) Reyna will be facing Dallas for the first time, and Dane Richards, who limped off in the second half of the Houston game, is absent from the injury list that came out today, so it looks like he’s ready to go as well. I’m no authority on things, but I’m glad Bruce opted for the 4-5-1 rather than putting Woly up top with Jozy. The team played 4-5-1 all through training camp and are very comfortable with system, Stammler has played well wherever he’s been so far (be it at back or midfielder), and Woly was so awful on Saturday he doesn’t deserve the start. Ahem. No, I’m not bitter.

Going into the game, RBNY are the only team in the league not to conceded a goal; if they can keep Dallas out for more than 75 minutes tomorrow, they’ll set a new league record for shutout minutes to open a season. Woo hoo! The previously suspect backline has looked solid together, and the impact of Waterreus on them can’t be overstated — watch only a half in person and you’ll see what I mean: He’s vocal, confident and totally in charge, not to mention really, really good. Having someone who trust them (and who they can trust) behind them has got to be a dream for these guys after listening to Meola whine and distribute blame for most of last season. Dammit, that bitter thing happened again! Sorry.

Anyway, since my prediction of a win didn’t torpedo the team last weekend, I’ll give it another shot: 2-1 RBNY, goals by Jozy and Dema, with one of his long-range blasts. (Hey one of those shot has to go on goal someday, right?) Either that or 2-2. Or something else entirely. Either way, I’m more excited then I ever imagined I’d be for this national TV showcase — hopefully it won’t all come crumbling down on us.

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Category: Red Bulls, Team News