The New York Red Bulls U23s are heading to their second consecutive national final four after defeating the Jersey Express, 2-1, in extra time at NJIT Stadium in Newark, New Jersey. Last year, they won the NPSL Championship, this year they're gunning for the PDL crown.
Left back Scott Thomsen (Red Bulls Academy/Virginia) put the Baby Bulls up in the 61st minute via a free kick. However, William Da Silva tied the match up in the 69th minute with a free kick of his own. Both teams (particularly Zach Knudson for the Red Bulls) had multiple attempts on goal, but regulation ended in a tie sending the match to extra time.
Both teams continued to threaten during the extra time periods, but it was Joe Farrell (FC Delco/La Salle) who was able to step up and clinch the match for the Baby Bulls in the 115th minute.
Joe Ohaus (PDA/Duke) got the start in net and held off furious attacking all match from the Express.
With this win in hand, the New York Red Bulls U23s are officially the Eastern Conference Champions of the 2015 Premier Development League season. The Baby Bulls now advance to the PDL final four. They take on Southern Conference Champions Ocala Stampede on Friday, July 31st. The other semifinal is K.-W. United FC versus the Seattle Sounders U23s, with the final being on Sunday, August 2nd.
The final four host has yet to be announced, but we'll keep you posted.
