New York Red Bulls Buzz, 6/30/17: New Contracts and US Open Cup Hopes
Jun 28, 2017; Harrison, NJ, USA; New York Red Bulls goalkeeper Ryan Meara (18) celebrates with teammates after defeating the Philadelphia Union at Red Bull Arena. Mandatory Credit: Noah K. Murray-USA TODAY Sports

The New York Red Bulls are looking forward to MLS, US Open Cup play against New England.

T The New York Red Bulls finally reached the quarterfinals of the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup. In a heated Wednesday night match, RBNY defeated Philadelphia 5-4 in penalty kicks. Even sweeter, the win knocked out Philly, who two years in a row ended RBNY’s journey just before this stage of the tournament.

On July 5th, RBNY will face New England in MLS regular season play. Similar to the previous two weeks, RBNY will play the same opponent within ten days. This time, RBNY will play for a spot in the Semi-Finals of North America’s oldest soccer tournament.



See the RBNY v PHI USOC game highlights here.

Also, this past week RBNY signed both Luis Robles and Felipe to new contracts. Both players have played invaluable roles in previous years as well as the current season. Robles started all 2017 season games and tallied 1530 minutes. He also recorded five shutouts, a crucial statistic as he has kept RBNY in the MLS Cup Playoff race.

Felipe added to his resume a game-winning penalty kick against Philadelphia on Wednesday. A crucial central midfielder for RBNY, Felipe contributes both in the attack and defense. His physical play and ability to distribute the ball helped RBNY win many games this year.

Luis Robles All Time RBNY Stats:

    • 157 Games Played
    • 157 Games Started
    • 14,130 minutes played
    • 44 shutouts
    • 73 wins

Felipe All Time RBNY Stats:

  • 84 Games Played
  • 84 Games Started
  • 7,341 minutes played
  • 8 goals
  • 15 assists

New York Red Bulls vs. New England

The New York Red Bulls will play New England on July 5th (MLS) and July 13th (USOC). The New York Red Bulls are in a position in which they can make a strong run in the US Open Cup later stages. To reach the semifinals or finals, they have to get through New England.

On May 27th RBNY faced New England at Red Bull Arena. RBNY won 2-1 and counted as their sixth win of the season. In terms of a path to the US Open Cup, RBNY is sitting in a prime position.

If RBNY defeats New England on the 13th, then they will advance to the semi-finals. New England currently sits in eighth place in the MLS. One place behind RBNY.

With previous success against New England this season it is not unreasonable to see RBNY advance to the next stage of the tournament.

In the semi-finals, they would then face the winner of Miami FC of the NASL and FC Cincinnati of the USL. Either of these match ups would be welcomed, while no doubt will be competitive. However, compared to the alternative an MLS opponent, RBNY’s chances look good.

Who do you have winning the US Open Cup?

Chris Sudol is a former college soccer player who now avidly supports the New York Red Bulls, Arsenal, and Barcelona, among many other soccer teams.