MLS 2015 Standings & Power Rankings: New York Red Bulls Close To Top Spot With 3-0 Win Over DC United
One of the biggest rivalries in the Eastern Conference of the Major League Soccer proved to be a very entertaining match as New York Red Bulls blank their opponent D.C. United in their game last Sunday. The victory saw the Red Bulls close its gap and near to toppling United from its current top spot.
The New York Red Bulls trails closely behind D.C. United in terms of points, but that didn't stop the New Jersey-based soccer team from demolishing its opponent and denying it to score.
The home game at the Red Bull Arena was packed as fans of both teams are looking to see if the Bulls will close the gap between the two teams or if United will further its lead against its opponent.
According to MLS Soccer, Sacha Kljestan played a pivotal role in the team's midfield area, supplying assists and shots toward the goals for the match. The 29-year-old was vital in the team's early pressing of United as soon as the match started.
The Bulls' onslaught of pressure resulted to a 33rd goal for Lloyd Sam, who received the ball from Bradley Wright-Phillips at the top of the box just as United defender Kemar Lawrence was about to intercept the striker, reported Pro Soccer Talk.
But Wright-Phillips did not only shine as a support player. The 30-year-old English player continued his goal streak as he capped the night with a brace that secured his team's victory against its rival.
With the striker all over the pitch, it was easy for Mike Grella to see Wright-Phillips opening to lob across at the top of the box, which was met with an accurate volley from the striker. The goal brought the Red Bulls lead to two points at the 42nd minute.
The former Manchester City player fired another shot at the goal at the 64th minute as a defender from United pleaded for an offside call, which was denied. That moment left the striker alone and ready to take a shot easily, which secured his team's victory in the end.
The Bulls will return to the pitch on Sept. 11 to play a home game against the Chicago Fire and it remains to be seen if the team can continue their momentum to finally see itself on the top spot for the Eastern Conference.
Meanwhile, D.C. United will face an away game against the Colorado Rapids as it tries its best to rebound and maintain its claim on the top before the playoffs season ends.
For a complete list of current team standings in the MLS, click on this link.
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