September 20, 2009
OFFSIDE REMARKS
It takes a lot to knock out Woly
John Wolyniec never got an opportunity to celebrate his game-tying goal on Saturday night.
Linda Cuttone/Sports Vue Images
By Michael Lewis
BigAppleSoccer.com Editor
There's one thing we have learned about John Wolyniec during three tenures with the Red Bulls/MetroStars in his 10-year MLS career: he is a warrior.
So, when he goes down and stays down, you know something has to be wrong.
He got clobbered three times in the Red Bulls' 1-1 tie the New England Revolution on Friday night. On the first two occasions, he was in big-time pain. Yet, both times he managed to get up and continue playing, even though he received some hard knocks on each knee.
The third time wasn't the charm. Yes, he put home a Dane Richards' right-wing cross from point-blank range to equalize the match in the 70th minute. He never had an opportunity to celebrate his second goal of season, however. He went down in a heap in front of the goal after goalkeeper Matt Reis kicked him as he scored.
A few minutes later Matthew Mbuta came on to replace him as Wolyniec suffered a sprained ankle, joining striker and team captain Juan Pablo Angel, who did not dress due to a right ankle sprain, on the sidelines.
After the match, coach Richie Williams feared that Woly could be lost up to two weeks with an ankle sprain. He was to see a doctor over the weekend.
"John's a warrior," Red Bulls defender Mike Petke said. "I love playing with him.
"It just shows what hard work and determination weill do and I respect that."
Even a warrior has his limits.
Michael Lewis would like to hear from you. If you have a comment, drop him a line at email.
