The New York Red Bulls used a former NHL team to have some fun at the expense of their local rival New York City FC during their derby on Friday night.
Earlier this week, NYCFC relocated a September game to East Hartford, Connecticut, after a Yankee Stadium scheduling conflict, drawing criticism from fans.
The Red Bulls didn't miss a beat, calling in the old Hartford Whalers' mascot to lead the cheers at the Hudson River Derby on Friday night.
Wanted to do what we could to prepare our opposition for their upcoming "home" game... #NYvNYC | #CTisREDtoo pic.twitter.com/LnqL8E7nRP
— New York Red Bulls (@NewYorkRedBulls) August 25, 2017
So here's a thing that happened. #Whalers #RBNY pic.twitter.com/TzRxwxC9VS
— Empire SC (@EmpireSC) August 25, 2017
There was plenty more. Like this giant banner featuring the NYCFC's "options" for the relocated game.
And in pregame warm-ups, the video board featured facts about Hartford to the sounds of the Whalers' famous "Brass Bonanza" anthem.
Pratt and "Wyatt" stadium? Poking fun at NYCFC with Hartford Whalers music. #RBNY pic.twitter.com/gwi9U29ZMP
— John C-TheRedEdition (@jacorbett70) August 25, 2017
Well done Red Bulls! Though it is rather brazen for a team named "New York" that plays all its games in New Jersey.