One of the newest members of the MLS New York Red Bulls is making a strong first impression. Alec Dufty, the University of Evansville goalkeeper the past three seasons, was chosen as Man of the Match by Fox Soccer Channel and Red Bulls' fans following the team's 0-0 draw on the road Saturday night against the Houston Dynamo.

Dufty got his opportunity just seven minutes into the match after Red Bulls goalkeeper Danny Cepero and Houston forward Kei Kamara collided, forcing Cepero to leave the match because of a concussion. Dufty, signed to a developmental contract by New York prior to the season, stepped in and made two saves while earning his first shutout as a pro.

Dufty made a late save on a header by Houston’s Brian Ching to preserve the scoreless tie in a rematch of year’s Western Conference semifinals. Dufty’s save in the 88th minute was one of several late chances for the Dynamo.

A two-time Missouri Valley Conference honorable mention all-conference selection, Dufty led the Purple Aces to three straight winnings seasons from 2006 through 2008. Dufty was coached at the youth level by UE Head Coach Mike Jacobs, and the two were re-united in 2006 when Dufty transferred to Evansville from Appalachian State University soon after Jacobs became the Purple Aces' head coach.

You can read and see more about Dufty's impressive performance below:



Click here for the MLS.net story


Click on 'highlights' to see game highlights, as well as 'Dufty save reel'




Click here for the Man of the Match story