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When New York Red Bulls II meets the Charlotte Independence this Sunday afternoon in likely a rather empty Red Bull Arena, the question will remain how long can this go on?
How long can NYBRII remain undefeated?
How long can Derrick Etienne, Junior Flemmings, and 'Speedy' Williams continue to impress before being given a shot with the first team? Could it happen this year?
How long can NYRBII afford to play in Red Bull Arena?
How long can NYRBII continue to not draw any crowd whatsoever despite playing the most exciting soccer in the USL?
How long until Noah Powder earns himself a professional contract?
How long until Simpara and M'baye are fully integrated into the team?
How long until the New York Red Bulls feel the full effect of NYRBII and their success?
New York Red Bulls II is a narrative machine, pumping out many more questions than answers. In part, that's what makes this team interesting. The fan gets to watch this team develop in multiple facets answering the questions and forming their own narratives. Unlike the highly stylized, heavily shaped narratives of MLS, New York Red Bulls II offers a freedom to enjoy the game and analyze it to one's heart's content, however great or little that may be.
When:
4 pm Sunday the 1st.
Where:
Red Bull Arena, Harrison, New Jersey.
How to watch:
As per usual, the game will be available to watch for free on Youtube. Link
Predicted starting XI's:
NYRBII- Offseason signing Gideon Baah will get a rehab start according to head coach Jesse Marsch, playing the first 45 minutes in order to regain match fitness. A plethora of first team loanee players will likely make up the roster since it's a home game and the first team already played Friday.
Rafa Diaz; Noah Powder, Gideon Baah, Zach Carroll, Konrad Plewa; Tyler Adams, Dan Metzger; Derrick Etienne, Sean Davis, Junior Flemmings; Brandon Allen
Charlotte Independence- Again, I am not going to claim I know a ton here. However, one note is that the Colorado Rapids' loanees are likely to see time.
Mizell; Slogic, Kalungi, Duckett, Johnson; Davidson, Ekra, Pfeffer; Calvert, Estrada, Brown
Predicted scoreline:
3-0 with goals from Allen, Flemmings, and Davis