In season’s past, I have tried to BULLog after every few matches.  However, I have found that my posts take on the same unpredictable emotions that reflect each consecutive match of the Red Bulls.  So, I have decided to post monthly and offer my composite retrospective for each month, beginning with April 2009 . . .

Despite the hype from year to year with extended contracts and new player signings, the Red Bulls still underperform sporadically, just enough to make you go . . . Hmmmmm.  However, there were promising flashes of resilience, but the net result? . . . April was a “blah month,” seeing the Red Bulls earn just 5 points in MLS league play, with a 1-4-2 record.  This is quite possibly the worst start the RedMetroBullStars have ever had in league play, but let us not forget the 2-1 rebound victory against the ‘Quakes in a US Open Cup qualifier to end the April Fools prank.  This is perhaps more symbolic than it is significant.  Only, time will tell.  But, hey!  It is only April!

What bothers me the most, besides the shock of losing to DC United at home (again) when we outplayed them for about 75 minutes, is that the skeptics’ noise is becoming louder.  In other words, after last season, in which I traveled to ALL the playoff matches from Virginia Beach VA, I really thought the club was turning a new page.  Now, all the folks who viewed or read about that unprecedented rise to greatness as a fluke may be on the verge of validation, and this bothers me . . . A LOT!

The future soccer-specific jewel know as “Red Bull Arena” I hope not only symbolizes a new beginning of soccer greatness in the Tri-State area, but actually heralds it in reality.  This market deserves a team that plays an attractive brand of soccer that engages the diverse communities that will surround Red Bull Arena.  I know Red Bull Arena will go along way in facilitating this objective.

Coach Osorio may be criticized for starting with a new lineup for every single match in April, but let us thank injuries and insanity (i.e., “Crazy” Carlos Johnson) for forcing Coach Osorio to respond.  I guess Juan Pietravallo has competition!  Although, two send offs in two consecutive appearances takes the cake in my book!  Also, what was the deal with Alfredo Pacheco?!  He looked impressive in the preceding two matches, but seemed to fall asleep against DC!???  Argh!  I am getting a headache bemoaning the obvious . . . I digress . . .

While Cepero is a fan favorite, I think his inexperience was beginning to get the best of him at the beginning of this season.  However, I think he performed admirably, from the day he scored the first goal in MLS by a goalkeeper to when he got his clock cleaned by Houston’s Kamara.  I am certainly glad he is OK, but that paved the way for 3rd ‘keeper, Alec Dufty, who also performed admirably.  Then, he was summarily waived, presumably to make way for Pacheco.  Hmmmmm . . . .

Then, Jon Conway returned, and we all held our breath.  How will he do?  Is his fitness up to par?  What will he say to the Red Bull fans about his suspension?  Jon made his statement against RSL, earning his first shutout and the Red Bulls’ first victory of the season.  Congrats, Jon!

I want to draw special attention to Kevin Goldthwaite, who has been nothing short of spectacular in the back for the Red Bulls.  How about the goal-line clearance against RSL?!!!  Yes, Petke is a fan [carryover] favorite from the MetroStars to the Red Bull era, but “Goldie” has more been solid and consistent, in my opinion.  Maybe the goal Petke scored against San Jose will snap him back into form and both he and Kevin can compete and make each other better.

For as long as I have been a season-ticket holder (i.e., 2001), this franchise (MetroStars/Red Bulls) has always seemed to scrape and claw for respect in a market that normally garners awe in the sporting world.  It has never been pretty, but it has been pretty “ugly,” even the manner in which we qualified for the playoffs last season.  Our Red Bulls continue to struggle and with the economy on egg shells, fan attendance and support may be struggling, too . . . all things considered.

Regardless, of the ups and downs, one thing that will never waver is RagingBullNation’s support of the Red Bulls.  Personally, I am still subscribing to Direct Kick and buying full-season tickets, along with many of the Nationals of RagingBullNation.  Yes, I drive many, many miles to either watch a match live or sit in my hotel room in cities like Miami, New Orleans, and San Diego and stress in front of my laptop with MLSLive.tv.

No matter what the result, “WE LOVE YOU RED BULLS, WE DO! . . . WE LOVE YOU RED BULLS, WE DO! . . . WE LOVE YOU RED BULLS, WE DO! . . . HEY! . . . RED BULLS WE LOVE YOU!”  Do you hear us, Boys?!  Do you HEAR US!!?

Now, show us a little love back, and redeem yourselves in May, beginning with LAndon Galaxy tomorrow night!

YIRB

CT