
With the final game of the regular MLS season upon us, we’ll witness a struggle for playoff life, and more importantly respect for the victor who takes the win in the final soccer match to be played at Giants Stadium.
Road-bound Toronto FC will likely attempt to mug the home side New York Red Bulls with a slash and grab style offence. Honduran captain Amado Guevara should see a starting place on the field, along with Julian de Guzman, Dwayne de Rosario, rookie Sam Cronin, and Jim Brennan all crowding the midfield. This forward-minded midfield attack will attempt to service the chronically weak strike force. Whether or not Barrett and White get the start, Toronto FC fans will watch with bated breath.
The Red Bulls have been one of the most shocking teams in MLS history. Their road winless streak has now reached 26 games. Although this can’t be addressed in the remaining game, a win would certainly lift the spirits of a dejected team who next year find a new home in the palatial Red Bull Arena. Dane Richards and Macoumba Kandji will likely see action tonight, as Juan Pablo Angel is probably still not one hundred percent.
Following the match, Angel will be recognized for his achievement of eclipsing the all-time scoring leader for the Red Bull franchise. Scoring 46 goals in all competitions was enough to secure his place in team folklore. Tonight’s match will put an end to a bittersweet history with the venue which has seen many triumphant highs, including Pele’s Final match October 1, 1977.