Below is a previous submission that was inadvertently “saved for a later date.” Well, the later date is now, and while portions of the following material might be dated, it is still pertinent. Having said all of that, I do want to reflect on more recent events, before we jump “backward” . . .

The RSL match was the next match after I had written the following BULLog installment. As T5O had alluded in his blog, the fantasy of a clean sheet, beginning with the first 4 MLS matches of the regular season, has been shattered. Of course, following the match on MatchTracker, instead of live audio and video, eased the emotional blow a bit. Thanks, HDNet! Indeed, I think the collective heart of the Red Bull fan base sank on that irreproducible shot. Ditto for the tying “Hail Mary” shot in extra time.

OK, let’s shake off the funk by beating the Galaxy in their cosmic playground . . . . NOT! JPA’s debut was admirable, contributing the greatest % of the 15 shots ON GOAL after relieving Jozy in the 62nd minute. Unfortunately, it was not enough. Looking at the box score statistics, the Galaxy should have spun out of orbit, but the Red Bulls just could not finish a shot. Ironically, ALL the goals for this match came in extra time.

Is it me, or does it seem that teams play HARDER during the US Open Cup (presumably because of the knockout format) than during the MLS regular season? . . . .Hmmmmm . . . The oxymoron is that often times, it also seems that coaches use this tournament as a sort of “proving ground” for players on “the bubble” for pivotal roles with their respective teams. Maybe it is the desire to justify oneself that seems to intensify the atmosphere around US Open Cup matches? Regardless, I enjoy watching them as much as MLS regular season matches.

So, what are MY initial impressions from these first few matches, including the US Open Cup? Eh! Seal the deal in the FIRST 90!  If we hope to bring home MLS hardware this season, this must be the mantra!

I am looking forward to more action this season, and seeing my fellow Nationals at the Meadowlands soon!

YIRB,
Chief Toro

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After the first three matches of the season, the New York Red Bulls have failed . . . to disappoint. Indeed, even the scoreless draw in the season-opener in Columbus revealed signs of a completely revamped team with a different mentality and untapped potential. After shaking off the first-match jitters, the Red Bulls are arguably poised to exceed all expectations this season, especially after an outstanding initial two-game home stand. In retrospect, this is not necessarily hard to do, as the bar was not set very high.

Back to the present . . . Whether I travel 6 hours from Virginia Beach, or 6 minutes to Shorebreak Sports Bar near my home to watch our “Boys of the Bull,” I can honestly say that I am most excited about this season. I believe this season promises to be a “breakout” season for the franchise and for soccer in the Tri-State area, and why not?

The Red Bull organization has had a full year’s tenure in MLS to get settled in. While there are likely still some growing pains to go through, there has been a noticeable difference in their communications to ticket-holders; pre-season and in-season publications; match-day ambience, etc. Furthermore, it takes some big bucks to back up its “big talk.” Thanks to MLS’ new Designated Player ruling, Bruce Arena has lured Claudio and Juan Pablo to Red Bull pastures. It would seem now that the pre-season and early season wheeling and dealing is paying some dividends now.

Followers of my BULLog are probably now rolling their eyes and shaking their heads, as they have heard the delusional ramblings of a pathologically optimistic Red Bull fan before. However, to my defense, my rantings from previous MLS Cup campaigns were not associated with such a strong start as the current season. I lay the gauntlet down again, only with more emphasis this season.

This season’s Red Bull squad has already put forth a more entertaining brand of soccer on the pitch. Add to that the second-best goal-differential in MLS and being the only team that has not given up a goal after the first three matches of the season, should speak volumes to a loyal fan base, and even those “on the fence” about following Red Bull soccer. Let us also not forget the spirited and shorthanded thwarting of the reigning MLS Cup champions, either!

When I was at the helm of our incredible supporters club, making a good first impression was my primary focus. I had TWO chances to do it, too; first, as MetroNation, then as RagingBullNation. The opportunity to make two first impressions is quite rare, but the Red Bulls have a unique opportunity to make THOUSANDS of first impressions each and every match day, when a new visitor to Giants Stadium gets their match ticket scanned or television viewer flicks the remote “Power ON” button.

So, Bruce and “Captain America,” please tell the boys to wash their uniforms, comb their hair, tuck in their shirt, and watch their language. You never know who might be watching or listening . . .

YIRB,
Chief Toro