Blue Bulls

(I'll start writing about the Yankees again soon. But there are a few Yankee and baseball references today.)

On a frigid night at Giants Stadium, the Red Bulls played their first home game of the season against the New England Revolution. The game ended in a scoreless draw, which may seem disappointing to some, but the Revs are one of the best teams in the league. Aside from a couple close plays, the Bulls' defense really stepped up. For the second game in a row, the Bulls started rookie Marvell Wynne, their number 1 pick in this year's SuperDraft. (baseball reference ahead) Marvell's father (also named Marvell) played 8 seasons in the majors. The Bulls had a few scoring chances of their own with several free kicks in the second half, but failed to convert. Amado Guevera had the best opportunity of the night for New York, sending a shot that looked to be heading for upper net, but it was deflected over by Revs keeper Matt Reis.

There was a fairly elaborate pre-game ceremony. It started when the current team stripped off their old Metrostars jerseys and presented them to long-standing season ticket holders. Then the Bulls paid tribute to New York's soccer history by honoring stars of the Cosmos and Metrostars. And I say New York begrudgingly. I can see it in the Cosmos case, because they spent 6 seasons at various New York stadiums (including 2 at Yankee Stadium. See, I mentioned the Yankees) and 7 at Giants Stadium. But it always bothered me that New York was always in the Metrostars moniker. They never played anywhere besides the Meadowlands. And now, with their new stadium set to be built in Harrison, NJ, they still insist on calling themselves the New York Red Bulls. Is it somehow shameful have a team named after the Garden State? After all, Jersey has a rich history of soccer as well.

Sorry for the rant.

So the night proceeded with the introduction of these past stars. The last player to be introduced was Pele, who, of course, received the loudest ovation. He came trotting out, waving and blowing kisses to the crowd. After the national anthem, Challenger the eagle, known for his flights into Yankee Stadium during the World Series, flew on to the field from the upper deck. (look, another Yankees reference). The game ball was then delivered by the Red Bulls Air Force skydiving team.

Half-time entertainment was provided by Wyclef Jean and Shakira. A portion of the 35,000 in attendance left shortly after the break. Don't know if there were only there to see the Shakira or they were just too damned cold or both. It was a pretty lively crowd though. I don't think they'll draw that many for all of their home games, but I have a feeling that attendance will be better than last year. Especially if the Red Bull company puts on more events like this one. Unlike in baseball, having a rich owner won't help roster-wise in the MLS due to a salary cap. But they can throw their money into other aspects of the team. It might not help the on-field performance, but it will help draw more fans in, which can be nothing but good for the team and the league.