RBNY Open Cup Scouting Report: New York Cosmos

The New York Red Bulls will seek to advance their US Open Cup journey against the New York Cosmos on Wednesday, July 1st in the Round of 16 after taking down the other NASL side Atlanta Silverbacks 3-0.  The Cosmos can currently claim they are the kings of New York, having beaten RBNY in last year's Open Cup, then defeating New York City FC on penalty kicks last round.  The Red Bulls look to reclaim their throne by knocking off the Cosmos, but they'll have a tough challenge ahead of them.

The New York Cosmos won Soccer Bowl (the NASL championship) during their first year in 2013 and will compete for it again in 2015 after going undefeated (5-0-5) during the spring season.  Here are who the Red Bulls will need to watch out for:

Jimmy Maurer (GK): Maurer was selected by the Red Bulls in the 2011 MLS Supplemental Draft, but didn't play in any games.  He went down to NASL for playing time.  He has appeared in 34 games since 2013 with the Cosmos, making the NASL Best XI in 2014.  In 10 total games so far this year, he has only let up eight goals.  He made three saves during the penalty kicks that decided the Cosmos' last USOC match, against NYCFC.

Adam Moffat (MID): The MLS journeyman (five teams in seven seasons) is still dangerous.  He excels in carrying the ball in traffic and distribution to his wingers.

Lucky Mkosana (FWD): Lucky scored in the 90th minute to send the NYCFC game into extra time.  He also hit the post during the extra 30 minute session.  He does a great job at finding space in the 18 to set himself up for goal scoring opportunities.

Leonardo Fernandes (FWD): Fernandes started the Cosmos' comeback after scoring in the 65th minute of the NYCFC game.  He is quick in the open field, so he could give the back line some issues.

Honorable mention: Ruben Bover (MID): Bover was cut by the Red Bulls early this season and looks to exact his revenge.  But he didn't play during the NYCFC game.  Maybe he'll convince Giovanni Savarese to get him in.