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“In the Box”: Observations on Sporting Kansas City’s season opening win

Elation. That was the second half (well, after the 48th minute) of Sporting Kansas City’s 2-1 victory at New York Red Bulls. Going in missing target striker Alan Pulido, midfield fulcrum Ilie, starting goalkeeper Tim Melia, and sparkplug right winger Johnny Russell meant not just adjustment, but a tall task. I mean who had 18-year-old Gianluca Busio at the false 9 on his or her lineup card??

Some things looked good. Other things brought groans, all too familiar ones. But what a win, huh???

All players were strong in moments. Nineteen-year-old goalkeeper John Pulskamp came out boldly in the 70th minute to tackle the ball away from a would-be attacker.