Bradley Wright-Phillips
Friday, May 17, 2024, at 03:40 PM
In the early days of the Hudson River Derby, my focus was always on outshining David Villa. While our career accolades differed greatly, I knew the New York Red Bulls’ success against New York City FC depended on my performance. My goal was simple: if our defense could keep Villa quiet and I managed to score, we stood a good chance of winning. This rivalry thrived on the presence of standout players who could change the game’s outcome. However, recent years have seen a decline in this excitement, especially during the pandemic when fan attendance was limited and the atmosphere subdued.
As we look to 2024, there’s a renewed sense of anticipation surrounding the Hudson River Derby, starting with the match at Citi Field this Saturday as part of Rivalry Week. The Red Bulls are playing their best soccer in years, and NYCFC is also on an upward trajectory. Both teams are in the top four of the Eastern Conference, separated by just three points. Red Bulls’ captain Emil Forsberg stands out as a key player who can make a difference with his skill and talent. Players like Lewis Morgan, with his impressive goalscoring form, provide additional firepower. On the NYCFC side, Santi Rodríguez shows promise, though he’s yet to reach the same level of impact. The local players, who understand the derby’s intensity, add to the fierce competition, making each match a battle for pride.
Reflecting on the past, I remember the intensity of the derby matches when NYCFC first joined MLS in 2015. Growing up in England, derbies were like cup finals to me, and I brought that same passion to every Red Bulls vs. NYCFC game. The pressure was immense, knowing that a loss meant endless taunts from rivals and fans on social media. Winning wasn’t just a celebration; it was a relief. The nerves before these matches were unlike any other, driving me to perform at my best. The memories of scoring crucial goals, such as the first goal on an assist from Lloyd Sam and the 7-0 “Red Wedding” victory, are moments I cherish. These games were about more than tactics—they were about heart, determination, and the desire to win at all costs.
Derby matches are unique because they transcend regular gameplay, focusing on individual moments of brilliance and relentless effort. As the derby approaches, the excitement builds around training grounds and social media, with fans trash-talking and players feeling the pressure to perform. The anticipation and rivalry fuel the players, making each game a highly charged event. It’s not just about winning three points; it’s about claiming bragging rights and asserting dominance.
This year, the Hudson River Derby promises to bring back the magic. NYCFC’s young, talented squad is on the rise, while the Red Bulls’ system and quality players ensure they remain formidable opponents. With stars like Morgan, Forsberg, and Rodríguez, the stage is set for thrilling performances. The ingredients are all there for an exciting match that recaptures the derby’s former glory. By the end of the 90 minutes, one thing is certain: New York will be passionately divided between red and blue, but for me, it will always be… RED!