THIERRY HENRY, GAME CHANGER

As stated in the introduction, it was Thierry Henry’s night to shine.

The Red Bulls captain decided to forgo time off in order to train during the break, and was tenacious at practice this week. The hard work translated into a brace and an assist, capped off by an Olimpico that will be on highlight reels for years to come.

Last season, the Red Bulls solely focused on getting the ball at Henry’s feet. His ability to change the game with a single touch and strike turned the team into a one-dimensional and predictable bunch. Yesterday, the team captain was part of the larger scheme in a perfectly executed long-ball tactic that continuously pressured and exposed the Crew’s backline.

Henry, who has lost a step or two in the speed department over the years, found a long lost gear as he regularly got in behind Chad Marshall and Julius James. His work off of corner kicks earned the team two more goals. In all aspects of the field, Henry displayed the kind of talent and leadership that makes him invaluable to this club.