Red cards are, of course, not uncommon in soccer, but the manner in which New York Red Bulls midfielder Dru Yearwood received his during his side’s MLS clash with the Philadelphia Union was certainly an eye-opener and an event that has led to much discussion and a lengthy ban for the player.
The Red Bulls were already two goals down and heading for their first defeat in five matches when Yearwood responded to giving away a foul by kicking the ball into the stands and hitting a young spectator.
Though Yearwood apologized instantly, he was rightly sent off and has subsequently received an additional three-game suspension and is therefore out of the rest of the regular season, with the Red Bulls looking to make an impact in the playoffs with Gerard Struber’s side sitting in third place in the Easter Conference.
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England player Yearwood moved to the Red Bulls in August 2020 and is a regular in their first-team action, and it’s clear that he has shown remorse for his actions and commented on his actions by stating;
“My emotions got the best of me on this day, and I’ve let down the entire organization and every single New York Red Bulls fan. I hope the fans are OK and that they can forgive me.”
The MLS as an organization also spoke out on the matter;
“The safety of everyone that attends our events at Red Bull Arena is of the utmost importance to our organization.”
“Dru is incredibly remorseful and knows his actions were inexcusable; We will take measures to discourage this from occurring again.”
“We, along with Dru, will continue to stay in contact with families to check on their well-being.”
Yearwood has also accepted the ban he’s received and will look to make an impact when he returns for the business end of the season;
“I fully accept the suspension from MLS, and I can ensure it won’t happen again.”
“I want to sincerely apologize again. Please know that I will continue to work hard to be ready to give my all for this football club when I am again able to contribute on the field.”
The Red Bulls overcame the New England Revolution in their next fixture, winning 2-1, and are set for their best regular season record since 2018, when they went as far as the MLS Cup semi-finals.
Prior to moving to the United States, Yearwood spent two seasons with Southend United before moving to Brentford in August 2019, leaving for the Red Bulls a year later. He is now a key member of the organization and will hope to move on from this event.
