(Photo Credit: Rob Tringali/New York Red Bulls)
Robles 7.5
The Red Bulls keeper answered confidently the few times he was called upon in this game, but it was his distribution that was so impressive on the night. Specifically, the half field throw Robles launched to spring Felipe on the counter descended perfectly onto the path of the streaking Brazilian, forcing RLS’s last defender, Morales, to make a desperate challenge that saw him collect a red card, in what was a game changing moment for the Red Bulls.
Perrinelle 7
Even before the second red card rendered the RSL attack completely impotent, Perrinelle had a commanding game. The big Frenchman dominated in the air, winning virtually ever aerial battle he engaged in.
Miazga 7
The young polish-American center back had another fine performance, exhibiting the composure and maturity that’s attracted the envy of the Polish FA in recent weeks. Almost scored a great header off a cross in the 86th minute that would have capped his fine performance, but was unfortunately directed right at a very busy Nick Rimando.
Lade- 6
Was solid defending the right side, and did well to provide an outlet for Grella on the right side of RSL’s attacking third. Though a lack of concentration led to a few errant passes, Lade had a good game, and was unfortunate to have to come off in the 67′ minute with an injury.
Lawrence- 7.5
While defensively solid, Lawrence was eager to join in the attack from the start, and was a menace on the left hand side throughout the game. It was Lawrence’s great run and cross that led to Grella’s goal in only the third minute of play. Were it not for a comical lack of finishing in the last half hour of the game, Lawrence could have had 3 or 4 assists on the night.
McCarty- 6.5
McCarty did his job well, as usual, pressuring RSL’s midfielders well and distributing the ball quickly when it came to his feet. Admittedly, McCarty’s day got a bit easier without having to deal with Morales in the midfield after the RSL playmaker’s red card, but he still did well to put his boot on RSL’s neck and maintain a cycle of constant pressure on RSL in the last 30 minutes of the game
Felipe- 7.5
Really good game from the Felipe in the midfield, as the Brazilian pressured well with McCarty in front of the back four, and was tidy in possession. Most impressive was his understanding with Grella. On more than a few occasions, Grella would start a curling run behind the defensive as soon as Felipe received the ball in the midfield, who would then immediately deliver a terrific leading ball over the top onto the streaking Grella into the opponents attacking third.
Davis- 6.5
Another strong performer in the Red Bulls midfield, Davis was sharp in his passing, and was involved with the majority of the Red Bulls attacking moves. Should have had an assist in the 80th minute with a great square ball across the 6 yard box, but neither Lawrence nor Abang were cognizant enough to hold their runs and keep onside.
Grella- 8 (MOTM)
Though it was only a simple tap in, a goal is exactly what Grella’s play has deserved. The native New Yorker has been in great form for the past few weeks, and shows no signs of slowing down. Once again, Grella was sharp, creative, skillful, and did well to keep himself involved in most the Red Bulls attacking play. The Red Bull faithful will be delighted that Grella’s form is peaking right before their showdown with cross town rivals, NYCFC.
BWP- 7
It hasn’t been the greatest run of form for Bradley Wright-Phillips over the past few games, and it led coach Marsch to shift him to the left side in favor of starting the younger, more physical Abang at center-forward. Phillips responded well, delivering a high work rate in defense as well in attack. It was BWP’s great through ball to Lawrence after Perrinelle’s failed long pass that resuscitated the attacking move which led to the goal, so there is some credit where its due. In truth, BWP looked well comfortable on the left wing, where he had more space to receive the ball and turn at his attackers and use his pace. Subbed off in the 63’rd minute with the game relatively secured, likely in a move to save BWP for Sunday’s game at NYCFC
Abang- 6.5
Playing as the center forward, Abang had a pretty good game overall, where he showed the strength, speed, and ball skills the make him such an exciting prospect. Of course, there were also plenty of simple mistakes that reminded us all that Abang is still a young kid with some raw talent. Overall, coach Marsch will be encouraged with Abang’s performance, enough to feed the 18-year-old some more starting minutes.
Subs
Zizzo (63′)- 6.5
Zizzo relieved BWP of his service with nearly a half hour to go, and merrily joined in the vehement assault on the RSL goal and the nine maroon-shirted men who defended it. Nearly had a goal, to the point where his shot lashed the ball into the back of the net to the cheering of the Red Bull faithful, but it was called back from an earlier offside call in the play.
Duvall (67′)- 6
Came in as a replacement for the injured Lade, Duvall was solid, though without much to do given RSL were already down to 9 men at this point.
Sanchez (86)- N/A
Another cameo for Sanchez late in the game was just that. Got a few touches on the ball but with the game virtually over, his appearance with inconsequential.
