NYRB II getting into the playoffs "a success"

New York Red Bulls II head coach John Wolyniec tells Once a Metro that getting into the 2015 USL playoffs is only one benefit from this season.

"For us to be able to get results and at the same time rotate players in and do a good job of using different players at different times, it's certainly a success getting into the playoffs," Wolyniec said to OaM.

"It has been a challenge managing all the players. They've handled it very well and it's not easy when the squad rotates even when you're winning."

In the team's debut season in USL, NYRB II currently sits in fourth place in the Eastern Conference, clinching a playoff spot this past Saturday. The team heads to Rochester for their final regular season match of the season, before prepping for their first round matchup.

Wolyniec said that the integration of MLS and academy players may have disrupted squad harmony and may have led to excessive rotation, but the team found a way to sustain season-long success.

"I would definitely look to some other successes that we got out of the year as well, but it's nice to know that you were able to compete while focusing on some other things," Wolyniec added.

For General Manager Shaun Oliver, making the playoffs is a "tribute" to the coaching staff, and the players on the field.

"We are very proud of what New York Red Bulls II has been able to accomplish in the team's inaugural season," Oliver said.

"Being able to get the guys to play in more competitive matches and further their development in the New York Red Bulls system can only benefit the organization as a whole moving forward.

"It's a tribute to John Wolyniec and his staff being able to get these guys ready to compete on a week in and week out basis."

The first round of the USL playoffs begin on Sept. 26-27.