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In the biggest game of the year in MLS, New York Red Bulls suffocated Atlanta United on the way to a 2-0 win that brings the Supporters’ Shield race to nearly a dead heat with three games remaining.
It took seven minutes for Atlanta United to move the ball past midfield. Red Bulls pressed the Five Stripes into submission and found themselves with multiple chances. A potential penalty on a Brad Guzan tackle went to VAR and was overturned, and a Tim Parker goal was ruled just offside. Atlanta touched the ball in the 18-yard-box maybe twice.
Eventually, the pressing paid off. A New York corner redirected goalward and Chris McCann slapped the ball for a Red Bulls penalty. This one would not be overturned.
Daniel Royer stepped to the spot and converted.
Now #RBNY are given a penalty! Clear handball by McCann in the box.#RBNYvATL #MLS pic.twitter.com/k8e8MHpjXj
— #ThankYouDeuce (@JogaBonito_USA) September 30, 2018
GOAL NUMBER 1️⃣1️⃣ for 7️⃣7️⃣!
— New York Red Bulls (@NewYorkRedBulls) September 30, 2018
1-0 #RBNYvATL | #RBNY pic.twitter.com/bPb7EMoLjP
The Red Bulls press softened a bit in the second half. Not much changed.
Atlanta struggled to find decent chances and, mercifully, New York closed the door in the 75th minute.
.@Tim_Parker26 with his first goal of the season to extend the lead!#RBNYvATL | #RBNY pic.twitter.com/j54EHSerXf
— New York Red Bulls (@NewYorkRedBulls) September 30, 2018
Atlanta United returns home up one point in the Supporters’ Shield standings. With three games remaining, Red Bulls will face San Jose, Philadelphia and Orlando City. Atlanta United will likely need to win all three of their remaining games to earn their first trophy in club history.
The Five Stripes face New England on Saturday in Atlanta. Kickoff is set for 3:30 p.m.