IN FOUR SHORT MONTHS, the rivalry between New York City FC and the New York Red Bulls has become one of the most heated in the sport.
Sunday’s derby was marred by violence as supporters of both MLS sides clashed before kick-off in New Jersey. There were tweets, bragging rights, chants and all the other things you’d expect from a more longstanding football feud.
The Red Bull fans seem to particularly take issue with their rivals’ signing of David Villa, Frank Lampard and Andrea Pirlo. Some sections of the crowd decided to remind Lampard and Pirlo, in particular, that their best days are well behind them. One banner, hanging from the top tier behind one of the goals, depicted the two legends with the words ‘City Retirement Home’ above their heads.
The Red Bull fans seem to have short memories. Their club has previously signed the likes of Thierry Henry, Youri Djorkaeff, Tim Cahill and Juan Pablo Angel — who were all well into their 30s when they made the move to America.
It was the New York Red Bull’s that were victorious on this occasion. Goals from Felipe Martins and former Premiership striker Bradley Wright-Phillips, who scored his tenth of the season, sealed a comfortable 2-0 win.
It’s been a turbulent first season for City. They now sit in eighth place, four points behind Didier Drogba’s Montreal Impact, who occupy the final play-off sport and have two games in hand.