The New York Red Bulls have continued their mediocre run of form. The Red Bulls ended with a 3-3 draw against D.C. United, despite leading on two occasions during the match. While New York got favorable results elsewhere, they really are putting their playoff hopes in jeopardy with the inability to get three points. They have not won a league match since August 12th against Orlando City SC.
New York Red Bulls Player Grades vs. D.C. United
Player Grades
Tyler Adams: A
The 18-year-old had quite a night for himself against D.C. United. On top of dominating the midfield, the youngster recorded his first two career goals in MLS. Adams is showing he is more then capable to be a star in the coming years in this league In a match filled with disappointments, Adams did everything he could to try and give this side the victory.
Gonzalo Veron: A
Veron has managed quite an incredible feat. He has gone from having a fan base wanting him gone, to almost pleading to have this man get more minutes for this team. Once again, when Veron entered the match everything had changed for the Red Bulls. The width play improved tremendously and his pace caused headaches for the D.C. back line. Veron drew the penalty and converted which put the Red Bulls ahead 3-2 towards the latter end of the match. He could have also easily had an assist, however Bradley Wright-Phillips botched what looked like a tap in effort.
Kemar Lawrence: B
Kemar Lawrence continues to be one of the few bright spots in the Red Bulls back line. Making quite a few vital tackles, Lawrence does a great job of being able to push forward and still track back to recover. The Red Bulls will need to find Lawrence some help and fast if they are going to have any chance of making the playoffs.
Bradley Wright-Phillips: C
BWP has seemingly lost the confidence to hit first time balls. Off a beautifully set up pass by Veron, BWP looked to have a mere tap in from about 12 yards out from goal. Instead of a first time strike, BWP choose to try and control the ball and then follow it up with the shot. However, by that time the goalkeeper was able to recover and make a save on what should have been an easy goal for the Red Bulls. A goal looking back on it now could have given the Red Bulls three points as supposed to one.
Fidel Escobar: D
An own goal well into stoppage time will certainly earn anyone poor marks in this one. Rather then a normal clearence, Escobar tried to be to cute and clear it with the outside of his right foot. The ball deflected almost too perfectly into the back of the net. A play which should have been simple cost the Red Bulls three points at home against the last place team in the Eastern Conference. The Red Bulls will certainly need to address the issues of this back line and quickly.
