ANALYSIS – The New York Red Bulls, now at the bottom of the Eastern Conference, faced the 2022 Eastern Conference Champions Philadelphia Union on Star Wars Night. Coming off Champions League disappointment, Alejandro Bedoya and the Philly Union came prepared to repair their MLS form. There was also a controversial foul that was called in this game.
Three Takeaways: New York Red Bulls Vs Philadelphia With a Controversial Foul
Got to Get Back to the Land
Before the match, Red Bull supporter groups made a conscious decision to return to the South Ward. The choice was not made lightly, and supporters are still voicing their disdain for RBNY manager Gerhard Struber’s inaction in the match against the San Jose Earthquakes.
While supporters in the South Ward are supporting, they are not holding back on criticism. #RBNY #RBNYvPHI pic.twitter.com/aDphFNoLqK
— Sylvana B likes the football ⚽️ (@WhiteZinWench) May 7, 2023
On the Monday following the match, the club announced the Austrian manager’s departure. Former New Mexico United coach and technical director Troy Lesesne will lead the team into their opening round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup against DC United and beyond.
READ MORE: Supporters Walk Out Of RBNY Home Match
We Are Stardust
Players put on display a fair amount of magic, more than has been seen on the Harrison pitch in recent weeks. John Tolkin and Omir Fernandez brought the ball wide up the outside channels, giving Cory Burke and Elias Manoel the chance to Dru Yearwood returned to the starting XI and went the full 90, Late in the first half, Tolkin also recovered his own blocked free kick to threaten the goal. Philly goalkeeper Andre Blake punched away that second attempt. Cameron Harper’s footwork in both offense and defense contributed to New York’s uncharacteristically high possession.
We’ve Got to Get Ourselves Back
A penalty, confirmed by VAR, put Union striker Daniel Gazdag on the spot. His conversion put the visitors ahead. The controversial call was the subject of discussion in the following days.
😳😳😳😳😳 https://t.co/2w0U3jZPK0
— Taylor Twellman (@TaylorTwellman) May 7, 2023
For several games this season the Red Bulls were at least able to salvage a point late in the match. The opportunity never came. Despite a relatively lively atmosphere, between the Star Wars-related festivities and both home and away supporters in attendance, the clouds loomed over Red Bull Arena as the final whistle blew. Perhaps the change at the helm will set the team’s souls free.
Photo Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports on May 6, 2023, of the Philadelphia Union Headshot.
