2012 has been a memorable year in the world of football, especially in Major League Soccer. During these last five days of the year we will be counting down the top five games of the year. Today we bring you the number 2 game, where a rivalry added an incredible new chapter.
#2 -New York Red Bulls 0-1 DC United – November 8
DC United and the New York Red Bulls have a rivalry that dates back to the early days of MLS. In the 2012 playoffs they added a new chapter to that rivalry that fans of both teams won't soon forget. After the teams drew 1-1 in the first leg of their Eastern Conference semifinal the tie moved to Red Bull Arena. A huge blizzard also moved to Red Bull Arena, delaying the match a day and adding to the intrigue.
New York seemed poised to win the match and the series after DC keeper Bill Hamid was sent off for a foul in the box on Kenny Cooper. Cooper initially beat backup keeper Joe Willis with his penalty but referee Mark Geiger ordered it retaken after several Red Bull players entered the box prematurely. Willis then saved Cooper's second attempt and the team's were level at 10 players when RBNY villain Rafa Marquez saw red.
Rookie Nick DeLeon played the part of the hero, scoring the goal that sent United to the East final. New York would have one last chance to equalize at the death but Roy Miller sent the free kick attempt from the edge of the box in orbit. Thierry Henry's reaction to Miller's shot sums up the Red Bulls season.
You can see full highlights of this match below.
http://youtube.com/watch?v=
r1RG6O4tHZg[/youtube]
Stay tuned later today for our number one game of the year.
(image courtesy of ISIPhotos.com)
