Armas Happy That Red Bulls Controlled First Game

photo by Matt Kremkau

New York Red Bulls begin their long and difficult road trip in Utah on Saturday but head coach Chris Armas is happy about the control his team had against their week one opponent FC Cincinnati. Despite a last surge in the second half, the Red Bulls were able to win the key battles and implement their style to gain the win.

"We liked the intensity we brought on the day," said Armas. "There's lots of talk out there sometimes about who will score the goals. We believe that many guys can score goals on our team. So we're happy that we scored three goals."

New York went into the year with question marks around key areas. The loss of Bradley Wright-Phillips in particular had many scratching their heads to find where the productivity would come from. Armas showed little worry and proclaimed that the team as a whole could bear the load. So far, in a small sample size, he has been right."

Kaku, Kyle Duncan and Daniel Royer produced the magic last week but the pressure won't be on them to for the entirety of the year. Instead it will be spread out among others and could be their key to remaining a playoff contender despite what many think of their chances.

"We want to make sure we tidy things up defensively," said Armas. "We don't think that goals you concede are random and there's little things in all the plays and chances that we give up that we can be better. For a first outing, lots of positives. Big three points, home victory and we're off to a good start."

That good start will be put to the test on the road where most top level MLS teams are defined. Their opponents, Real Salt Lake, are a team that also is shrouded in mystery as they look to rebound following the departure of former Red Bulls skipper Mike Petke. The team has also seen key departures in Jefferson Savarino and Nick Rimando. The team was able to grab a goalless draw against Orlando and hope that a trip home can lead to their first win of the season.

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