At the end of the first 45, New York Red Bulls lead San Jose Earthquakes, 2-0. The first Red Bulls goal came from Sacha Kljestan in the 29th minute, his first career goal for the Red Bulls. Mike Grella added the second tally six minutes later to double the Red Bulls advantage.
The Red Bulls started the game fast, pressuring San Jose early. Felipe’s corner in the sixth minute found the head of a leaping Matt Miazga, but his chance fell comfortably into the arms of goalkeeper David Bingham.
But the Red Bulls would soon find the back of the net.
A low cross from Felipe was swung into the box towards the direction of Bradley Wright-Phillips in the 29th minute. Wright-Phillips got a touch to the ball which rolled to the vulnerable back post where Sacha Kljestan buried his first goal as a New York Red Bull into an empty net.
In the 35th minute, Lloyd Sam found himself with the ball on the right side of the box. He patiently waited and for numbers to help out. He spotted Mike Grella at the back post in space, created separation between himself and the defender and delivered a cross which Grella buried. The goal is Grella’s second of the season.
Kemar Lawrence would also have a chance in the 40th minute. He received a clearance from approximately 30 yards outside the San Jose penalty box which he struck on the volley. The attempt was headed for the top left corner, but Bingham, in a diving effort, pushed the ball just over the crossbar for a corner.
Damien Perrinelle also picked up a yellow card in the 11th minute for a challenge on Innocent.
