Henry: Hat-trick Hero

In your head, try to replay the game on Saturday without Henry on the Red Bull's Squad. It doesn't look too pretty. Most likely it would have been two weak goals by Montreal and a third loss for the Red Bulls. Luckily, we don't really need to worry much about that... for now. As incredible and entertaining as this showcase of Henry's skill was, it makes you wonder where NY would be without him. What I'm talking about is the depth of their offense, or the lack there of. Rodgers having his visa denied and Agudelo with an injured knee leaves practically a non-existent attacking bench. The last full on striker on the bench is Corey Hertzog, who has had only 5 appearences and 0 goals in his two-year career with the Red Bulls. In the event that either Henry or Cooper is out, I would accept a move of either Dane Richards or Mehdi Ballouchy to join whoever can still play. But it is not unreasonable to imagine that at least one game Henry and Cooper might both be unavailable, and then who would be up top? Just another thing to think about for Hans Backe.

The midfield played pretty well, with Richards causing the most havoc for Montreal. Marquez still has yet to show me improvement. He did show his potential however when he assisted the Red Bull's and Henry's first goal of the night, but still, too many turnovers and panicky passes for the calm and collected play-making midfielder he is expected to be.

Now to the defense. Holgersson. How many times have I pointed to his inconsistency, lack of leadership, weakness, and lack of all around skill. The first goal was, no doubt, his fault, (the ball slipped through his legs while he was trying to clear it from the box). The second goal was bad defending by Solli to let Mapp cut in, (all though in his defense, it is the full back's job to prevent the cross, so letting him cut inside wasn't a complete fluke), but seriously, Holgersson could have stepped up quicker and provided a more aggressive and physical tackle on Mapp rather than just turning his body to block the shot. I want to see Keel in and Holgersson out.

Meara had a rough game, conceding two goals both scored on his near post. He has been better before so he should be better in games to come as well.

Players who excelled in this game: Henry-3 goals, 1 assist. Solli/Richards-left Montreal's left defense begging for mercy. Conde-organization, physicality