Major League Soccer and Liga MX join forces for the first-ever Leagues Cup. This mid-season tournament comes on the heels of the MLS All-Star Game, extending the break. With a spot in the Concacaf Champions League on the line, the New York Red Bulls opened the book on a new chance at glory. Currently in 11th place in the Eastern Conference, and already out of Open Cup contention, New York could use a boost. The messy and controversial win against the Revolution earlier this month added to the drama of the match. Although it took a penalty shootout, the Red Bulls quashed the Revolution again.
Leagues Cup: Red Bulls Quash Revolution
Tell Me Why
A fan recommended the title of this article as, “Why?” It was a joke, of course, but there is some truth: a congested schedule coming off three years of COVID-related turmoil in order to face off against teams in another league can seem strange and unnecessary. Love it or hate it, though, this competition has already created some magic. This pretty much means the Leagues Cup is here to stay.
Nothing But A Heartache
New York can be a serious threat on most of the pitch. John Tolkin, Daniel Edelman, and Cameron Harper combined in the central third to keep up the attack. Manager Troy Lesesne has a strong affinity for the young trio: “These three, every day, keep me on my toes…[they] bring a lot of energy to our team.”
The difficulty, as has been seen in previous games and seasons, is the inability to finish chances. Their pressing results in offside calls, as happened with a Tom Barlow goal near the end of the first half. Relentlessness on and off the ball necessitates fresh legs, but even the most clever of plays end with the ball anywhere but in the net. Lesesne reminds the players that composure is the key to resolving chances, which is difficult when the pace is so high.
READ MORE: Latif Blessing sent off in last league meeting between New York and New England
I Want It That Way
The game ended in a scoreless draw, which necessitated a penalty shootout. The winner would gain an additional point in the group standings. With the South Ward for a backdrop, players from both teams stepped to the spot. Between a shot that hit the post and another saved by Carlos Coronel, John Tolkin’s shot sealed the victory for the Red Bulls. The Revolution will host Liga MX squad Atlético de San Luis Wednesday. Los Atléticos will then make the trip to Red Bull Arena next Sunday to complete the group stage.
The "fake pulled hammy into the twerk" is the celly of a new generation. https://t.co/kDA9dxLyFp
— Sylvana B likes the football ⚽️ (@WhiteZinWench) July 23, 2023
Photo Credit: Mark Smith-USA TODAY Sports, of a New York Red Bulls and a New England Revolution Headshot, on July 22, 2023.
