Posted on July 8, 2012
UPPER MONTCLAIR, N.J. — The last time the Red Bulls won a game at Gillette Stadium, midfielder Dane Richards had not yet come to the United States to play college soccer.
That’s how long ago they were able to emerge with three points — July, 2002. Since then, the Red Bulls have endured a 17-game winless streak (0-12-5) in the regular season and playoffs against the New England Revolution in Foxborough, Mass.
Richards, 29, joined San Jacinto College,a two-year school in Houston a year later.
Asked why it was difficult to play at New England, the Jamaican international replied, “A rivalry is always challenging. Hopefully, we can match the intensity at home and try to get a result.”
The Red Bulls play at the Revolution at 7 p.m. on Sunday.
They are undefeated at home at 5-0-2 and have broken even on the road at 4-4-2.
In last year’s encounter at Gillette Stadium, Richards scored a brace, including the equalizer in the 87th minute to help New York salvage a 2-2 draw with the Revs.
Richards called his performance “a huge game. We didn’t win. We only tied, so hopefully we can go there and get three points this time.”
He later added: “I’m always dangerous against New England. Hopefully I can go there and help my team to win, whether I score or assist on some goals.”
Assuming he plays, Richards will move into sole possession of second place on the team’s career games list. It would be his 147th regular-season appearance as he would move past former defender Carlos Mendes (now with the Columbus Crew). Assistant coach Mike Petke is the all-time leader with 169 matches. Richards also is second in starts and minutes played (131 and 11,609), trailing only Petke (158, 14,060).
Richards also is the senior player on the team, having played with the Red Bulls for six seasons since he was drafted out of Clemson in 2007.
“Oh, that’s unbelievable,” Richards said. “Hopefully I can finish off with a championship this season.”
Photo: Dane Richards scored a brace in a 2-2 draw at New England last season. Andy Mead/YCJ
Categories: Caribbean, Jamaica
Tags: Carlos Mendes, Dane Richards, Gillette Stadium, Major League Soccer, Mike Petke, New England Revolution, New York Red Bulls
Loading ...
