New York Red Bulls vs Chicago Fire Match Preview
The Red Bulls were simply awful in 2009. Fortunately for them they enter 2010 with a new coach, new players, and a new stadium. New head coach Hans Backe has already had a positive influence on the team. The selection of University of Virginia midfielder Tony Tchani with the second overall selection in the 2010 SuperDraft should pay huge dividends this year for the Red Bulls.
Central defender Tim Ream, who was selected 18th overall, is another rookie who should play a big role this year. If both Tchani and Ream can become solid starters the Red Bulls should contend for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.
Up front the Red Bulls have striker Juan Pablo Angel, possibly the best forward in the league. Last year he was relegated to being the best player on the worst team. If Angel can see quality service this year he will score goals in bunches and would surprise nobody if he led the league in scoring.
The Red Bulls lack a second “designated player” roster spot but they may be holding off until 2011 to acquire one. Rumors are swirling that Barcelona’s Thierry Henry and Real Madrid’s Raul are considering a move to the Red Bulls. If either of those were to happen it would be a great day for MLS.
The Chicago Fire were a penalty shoot-out away from a spot in the MLS Cup finals last season. Despite the successful season there were a host of changes this past offseason. Coach Denis Hamlett was fired, Gonzalo Segares and Chris Rolfe took their game overseas, superstar Cuauhtemoc Blanco went back to Mexico, and goalkeeper Jon Busch was released just before the season.
Despite all the changes, the Fire still have a solid core to build around. “Captain America” Brian McBride will return at forward and this year will be partnered with former Fulham teammate Collins John. These two have the potential of becoming a solid scoring duo. Marco Pappa also adds a scoring threat from the midfield.
Besides bringing in John, new coach Carlos de los Cobos also brought in Krzysztof Krol, who should take over the left back duties. The biggest question for this team will be how well Andrew Dykstra performs as the first string goalkeeper.
If Dykstra succeeds then the Fire will be right back in the playoffs, if he fails it could be a long season in Chicago.
