Atlanta United vs NY Red Bulls

Atlanta Ties Red Bulls 3-3

Martinez Marks Return with Two Goals

Atlanta, GA – Atlanta United had never beaten the New York Red Bulls.  On Sunday at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, that did not change.  United tied New York 3-3.

The match marked the return of the league’s reigning MVP, Josef Martinez, who had been away for over a month due to international team duties.  Josef made his presence felt, recording two goals on the day.  His first goal was on a penalty kick in the 79^th minute.  His second was a beautiful header that went over the goalkeeper and bounced off the top beam in stoppage time, giving Atlanta a 3-2 lead and an apparent win.

But the Red Bulls responded in the third minute of stoppage.  United nemesis Bradley Wright-Phillips converted a cross into a goal that ultimately led to the tie.

The match was fast-paced and exciting.  However, it was marred by rough play.  A total of 38 fouls were conceded, with 19 by each side.  There were four yellow cards awarded.  The lone red card was issued to Jeff Larentowicz after the match had been completed.  Larentowicz will miss the next MLS game.

Atlanta temporarily moves to third place in the Eastern Conference.  Its next match is a US Open Cup affair against St Louis FC on Wednesday.  United’s next MLS match is at Seattle on Sunday, July 14^th.

Notes…Justin Meram scored his third goal of the season on Sunday and his third in the last two home matches…Josef Martinez now has 12 goals on the season, earning him sole possession of third place in goals scored in the league…attendance was announced as 68,077.