Joe Willis has been a revelation for DC United, and the Red Bulls can relate; they have one of their own. Ryan Meara has been a savior for New York. With Frank Rost off of the team and no veteran to cover his spot in the lineup, the Fordham product with the Larry Bird resemblance has shored up New York’s net in it’s greatest time of need.

DC can make a similar argument of course. Willis usurped Bill Hamid in the back and has been steady behind a new-look backline. The 6’5″ St. Louis native has been impressive over the stretch of the past three games for DC. This one will be a test for both young men as they continue to find their footing on the backline of their teams.