Red Bulls ease past Rapids

Thierry Henry and Kenny Cooper both bagged two goals apiece as the New York Red Bulls hammered Colorado Rapids 4-1 in Major League Soccer.

Former Arsenal striker Henry opened the scoring as early as the third minute of the match at Red Bulls Arena.

The 34-year-old veteran used his considerable experience to intercept a back-pass from Colorado’s Ross LaBauex, before slotting home a left-foot shot.

Henry’s early impact on proceedings continued three minutes later, when he set up Cooper for the Red Bulls’ second goal.

It took the home side until nine minutes into the second half to extend their advantage.

Defender Wilman Conde sent a long ball forward, which Henry controlled before slipping past Rapids goalkeeper Matt Pickens.

Omar Cummings pulled one back for Colorado on 77 minutes, launching a long-range strike after Rafael Marquez lost possession 30 yards from goal.

The goal would prove no more than a consolation for the away team, who conceded again a minute from time when Cooper claimed his second.

More to follow…