Atlanta United played to a scoreless draw against New York Red Bulls Wednesday night at Red Bull Arena. Atlanta’s defense had a strong showing, coming up with a season-high 41 clearances while facing 15 shots, but it picked up a critical road point heading into Decision Day in fifth place in the Eastern Conference. Brad Guzan made three saves to record his 10th clean sheet of the season. Atlanta United can clinch a playoff spot at FC Cincinnati on Sunday if it wins, draws, or loses by less than eight goals.
Atlanta United struggled early to generate offense but weathered a surge of Red Bulls attacks to keep the match scoreless. Goalkeeper Brad Guzan was called into action in the 52nd minute to make a massive save. Red Bulls striker Patryk Klimala was played in behind Atlanta’s backline where he dribbled into the box for a one-on-one with Guzan, but Atlanta’s captain held his ground and made a crucial kick save to preserve the draw.
Despite its slow night in the final third, Atlanta produced the match’s final scoring opportunity in the 93rd minute. Jürgen Damm delivered a cross from the right side that was partially cleared to the top of the box where Ezequiel Barco was stationed. The Argentine one-timed a pass to George Bello down the left side where the homegrown had a good look on goal, but his left-footed strike was hit directly at New York goalkeeper Carlos Coronel.
STATS
Shots: 15-2 New York
Shots on Target: 3-1 New York
Corner kicks: 12-1 New York
Fouls committed: 17-4 New York
Offside: 3-2 New York
Possession: 57-43 New York
Passing Accuracy: 72-62 Atlanta
Atlanta (12-9-12, 48 points) returns to action Sunday, Nov. 7 for Decision Day when it travels to face FC Cincinnati at TQL Stadium (3:30 p.m., Bally Sports Southeast, Star 94.1, La Mejor).
-Jon J.
Photo: Courtesy of ATL UTD
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