MLS expert Luke Beaumont (@_LukeBeaumont) unpicks the action from the Hudson River Derby between NYCFC and the Red Bulls on Wednesday night.
New York City v New York Red Bulls | Thursday 23rd August 2018, 00:00
Week 26 in Major League Soccer is Rivalry Week and the action gets underway on Wednesday night as NYCFC host the New York Red Bulls in what should be another classic Hudson River Derby.
The two New York clubs are enjoying a successful year as both are well-placed in the Eastern Conference and in a position to challenge Atlanta United for the Supporters’ Shield.
Both sides have reacted positively to losing their managers midseason after Jesse Marsch left the Red Bulls to become the assistant manager of RB Leipzig, and Patrick Vieira opted to leave NYCFC and return to France as manager of Nice.
Last time out
NYCFC were beaten by Philadelphia Union on the road last weekend and it was a performance to forget for Domènec Torrent’s side.
The Spaniard will be hoping for a reaction from his players as they look to make it two wins in succession against the Red Bulls.
The Red Bulls experienced different fortune as they sneaked a point in Vancouver after Daniel Royer netted a stoppage time equaliser to frustrate the Whitecaps.
They are now unbeaten in their last three outings.
The last Hudson River Derby:
New York City FC currently possess derby day bragging rights after a 1-0 victory over the Red Bulls last month at Yankee Stadium. Maxi Moralez scored the only goal of the game, securing a much-needed victory after NYCFC had previously suffered back-to-back 4-0 defeats at Red Bull Arena.
NYCFC have home advantage in Wednesday’s meeting and that seems to be a pivotal factor in how Hudson River Derby’s are decided. Four out of the last five meetings have been won by the home side and I fancy that to be the case again on Wednesday night.
11/10 (Bet365) is an attractive price for a team who haven’t lost at home in MLS this season and have won 10 out of 12 outings at Yankee Stadium.
Best Bets
New York City FC v New York Red Bulls – New York City to win (11/10 Bet365)
