Red Bulls Defense Holding Up, Know Goals Need To Come

The New York Red Bulls are expecting a bit of the same from the Matchweek 2 game against Nashville SC for Matchweek 3 vs. Minnesota United FC. 

"I think this will be a game with a little bit similarities to the Nashville SC game, many second ball fights and many long balls from them also and I think in this direction we need to be ready," Head Coach Struber said. "I think [it's] a big challenge, a tough game again. Every game in the league is always a challenge that in the end that you create points, but in Minnesota it is a big one."

The Red Bulls will head to Allianz Field for the first time in franchise history this weekend and only the second time they have played in Minnesota, holding a 1-0-0 mark there.

"We have, right now, a great training week behind us, the mood is very good in the group and we will realize there a big performance and this first of all the most important thing on the weekend," Struber said.

Carlos Coronel recorded his 22nd career shutout in his time with the Red Bulls, which ranks third all-time in franchise history and he is only four shy of passing Tony Meola for second place.
 
"We have not given up many shots, but we have created some decent chances, it is just about putting them away, so that is what we need to do this week against Minnesota and to get the three points," Tom Barlow said.

New York’s defense has only allowed 10 shots through the first two matches of the season, which leads MLS. None of the shots from open play have been on target.

"They have a strong defensive team and it is their home opener, so it should be a great challenge for us, but we love that," Barlow said. "We love going into other people’s places and hopefully ruining their home opener for them." 

Defenders Sean Nealis and Andrés Reyes lead MLS through the first two matches of the season in challenges won. Reyes leads MLS with 32 and Nealis is in second with 27.

"We have had a great couple defensive games, but we are looking to get on the scoresheet," Barlow said. "We are hungry to score goals and that is what we are going to do this weekend."