The New York Red Bulls are running out of time to do something -- anything -- in hopes of making the 2011 MLS Playoffs. New York (6-6-15) has not won an MLS match since defeating New England, 2-1, on June 10 and things won't get easier when they face FC Dallas (13-8-7) in Dallas at 8:30 p.m. Et on Saturday.
The Red Bulls will be without left fullback Roy Miller and midfielder Carl Robinson due to injuries Miller has a right Adductor strain and Robinson has a right knee contusion. Brian Nielsen (knee surgery recovery), defender Tim Ream (lower leg contusion), striker Luke Rodgers (plantar fasciitis) and goalkeeper Frank Rost (right quadriceps tear) are all listed as questionable.
The Red Bulls will also be without the services of two key players due to disciplinary issues. Jan Gunnar Solli was given a red card in first half stoppage time on Saturday in the team's 1-1 draw with Vancouver Whitecaps FC. The Norwegian will thus be unavailable for selection for the Red Bulls' match on Saturday, Sept. 17 against FC Dallas. Defender Rafa Marquez is also suspended after earning his fifth yellow card of the season against Vancouver.
The Red Bulls' chief issue this season has been on the defensive end. They have given up 38 goals in 27 games, after giving up only 29 goals in 30 games last season.
"[We're] giving away too many unforced errors," head coach Hans Backe said of what he wants - and doesn't want - to see from his squad. "We get breaks against us too much, at the end of the day, a team will score."