After two group matches in the USDA Finals, the New York Red Bulls’ U-18 side has combined for a 1-0-1 record over this past week’s play.
On Sunday, July 14, the Red Bulls tied Albertson 3-3 in a heavy back-and-forth battle between the two sides. Each of the teams held a one-goal lead at certain points in the contest, but entered the half tied at 2-2 thanks to two goals from the Red Bulls’ Alex Muyl. Coming out of the break, Albertson’s Jeongho Ahn put his side up 3-2 in what looked like a sure advantage over the Red Bulls. But the resilient New York squad continued to attack and maintain a strong defensive back, as the combination paid off in the 85th minute when Jhon Estama buried the equalizer the finish the match in a 3-3 draw.
While the Red Bulls played host to French Ligue 1 side Lyon Tuesday night, the U-18 squad came out on top in a hard fought outing against the Vancouver Whitecaps. Ethan Decker scored the lone goal in the match as the Red Bulls posted a 1-0, clean sheet victory. Earlier in the match, New York watched a penalty-kick attempt from Muyl stopped by Whitecaps goalkeeper Sean Melvin to keep it scoreless, but ultimately escaped with the ‘W’ thanks to strong defending that ensured the 1-0 victory.
The U-18s are back in action Thursday when they face off against the Seattle Sounders. A win, coupled with an Albertson loss or tie, will allow the U-18 Red Bulls to advance to the National Championship, scheduled for Saturday, July 20.
