New York Red Bulls lost in penalty kicks over FC Cincinnati
HARRISON, N.J. — FC Cincinnati is advancing in the MLS Cup Playoffs after beating the New York Red Bulls in penalty kicks.
FCC heads to the Eastern Conference Semifinals, where the MLS Cup Playoffs become single-elimination. The Orange and Blue will face the winner of the first-round series between the fourth-seeded Philadelphia Union and fifth-seeded New0 England Revolution.
New York set the tone with their breakneck pressing and rugged, occasionally brutal physicality, and Tom Barlow’s 45th-minute opener arose out of the chaotic tempo that can incite. But after a rough start to the night, Cincy found another gear after halftime, inspired as usual by the excellence of playmaker Luciano Acosta, who played a game-high seven key passes, none more vital than his precise delivery on the run to assist Aaron Boupendza’s 75th-minute equalizer.
John Tolkin had an opportunity to give New York the victory in the fifth round of the shootout, but his left-footed shot caromed off the right goal post. The net was wide open as Celetano had gone in the other direction.
FCC will however be without a key player. Matt Miazga will miss the Eastern Conference semi-finals after getting a second yellow card in the match against RBNY. With Nick Hagglund out for surgery, FCC is now down two centerbacks.
