Photo by Noah K. Miller/USA Today Sports
By RYAN TOLMICH
Despite the rigors that come with playing a pair of games in just three days, 37-year-old Thierry Henry led the New York Red Bulls in spectacular fashion last week.
Henry bagged a combined three assists in the two playoff victories, earning himself recognition as SBI MLS Player of the Week.
After assisting on the equalizer in Thursday’s win over Sporting KC, Henry set up both Red Bulls goals in a 2-0 victory over fierce rivals D.C. United on Sunday night in the first leg of the Eastern Conference semifinals. The first Henry helper came via a backheel, as the Red Bulls forward flicked the ball into the path of a wide open Bradley Wright-Phillips. The second was a perfectly placed chipped through ball to Peguy Luyindula that sealed the Red Bulls advantage.
Henry beat out Charlie Davies, Jaime Penedo and Ozzie Alonso for this week’s honors.
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What did you think of Henry’s performances? Which player stood out to you during the first week of the MLS playoffs?
It’s such a privilege to watch him play. His movement off the ball is particularly fun to watch. So smart. He was a big part of the Red Bull attack destroying DC’s defensive shape. Aside from a finish here or there, he’s been near flawless.