After their 1-0 loss to Philadelphia Union, the New York Red Bulls had a small window to prepare for their upcoming visit to the New England Revolution on Saturday. Head Coach Chris Armas and Captain Sean Davis shared their thoughts ahead of their eight 2020 regular season match.
“What we can expect from them for sure is a team that's built for transition going forward with pace, and they attack the wide areas,” said Armas. “They're very good on crosses, they’re one of the best teams in the league in terms of duels and being combative, that's very obvious to us. We think they're an improved team that’s able to play anyone in the league, so we will have our hands full but we're up for the challenge.”
Armas highlighted the importance of starting strong and showing the same energy and intensity as they showed in the last 45 minutes against the Union. Against the Revolution, they can’t afford bad giveaways and will have to take care of transition moments.
“Look, we are trying to balance out lots of things every time, thinking about what's the best team to put out to get the results,” said Armas. “Turf is a consideration because it does play a factor and stepping on the field with fresh legs, hungry guys, there's something to be said about that. We will rotate in certain positions, but I can assure you that the team that steps on is going after three points.”
The input of athletic trainers, medical staff and coaches has been critical in the last hours in assessing which players to put on the field and which players to rest after an atypical season, that has included three beginnings and a mini tournament down in Orlando.
“Without a doubt, it's no secret it's a difficult place to play, but I remember a few years ago we did pick up a result there, and it was a great feeling just because we know that it has its challenges,” said Davis. “I think heading into this game, again it's going to come down to being sharp in both boxes. I say that a lot, but that's especially important on the road, and so if we can keep them off the board, if we can be strong defensively, limit their looks on goals I think that always gives us a chance going forward and grabbing a goal because if we can put the game on our turns, if we can score that first goal, it gives us a lot of momentum.
“It forces the opponent to step out a little bit more, to be a little bit more aggressive, especially when they're playing at home, obviously, and so I think that having a strong start, having a strong first half, gives us good momentum, and ultimately gives us the best chance to win this game.”
