Philadelphia were the better team in the first half, but saw themselves 1-3 down at half-time against the efficient Red Bulls. Their attacks became even more direct in the second half, which helped them to dominate the game and prevented New York’s counters to tie the game. The game was finally decided by a deflected […]

The New York Red Bulls’ intense approach made this game a battle of attrition at times. New York City FC were able to take the lead early on, yet the pressing of the Red Bulls subdued the City attack for much of the proceedings, and the Red Bulls were able to fight their way back […]

Amidst a calamitous ninety minutes of nearly non-stop injuries, Atlanta and New York tussled until the end in what was as much an interesting tactical battle – featuring intense pressing formations and direct plays – as it was a toss-up between two MLS rivals.  Tactical analysis and match report by Peter M.  Atlanta have failed […]

In one of the wildest matches in Major League Soccer this season, Philadelphia Union came from behind to beat fellow Eastern Conference foe New York Red Bulls. Thanks to halftime changes from manager Jim Curtin and the introduction of Brazilian midfielder Ilsinho, the Union blew apart the Red Bulls in the second half, after a […]

The game was relatively chaotic in the early stages as Atlanta struggled against New York’s pressing. A sending off for New York changed the pattern of the game as Atlanta were now presented with the challenge of breaking down the ten men of New York. They were unable to do so, and New York took […]