Teenage Red Bull New York forward Julian Hall is scoring goals at a tremendous pace and making history along the way.
Hall’s hat trick propelled New York to a 3-2 home victory over the Columbus Crew on Wednesday night. The 18-year-old became the youngest player in MLS history (18 years, 50 days) to record a regular-season hat trick, eclipsing the previous record held by former FC Dallas striker Ricardo Pepi (18 years, 196 days).
“I got kind of emotional,” Hall said after learning of his record-smashing feat. “Like it kind of just makes me think about all the times I was working so hard to make memories like this. I’m just really grateful and thankful for the guys that set me up and put me in a great position.”
Hall Continues To Impress With Consistency for Red Bull New York
Hall’s humble nature is clear. He doesn’t forget where he came from and credits the individuals in his personal life and on the pitch who’ve helped him on the fast track to success.
The 5-foot-10 forward paid tribute to the pacey, tricky wingers on his left and right, Jorge Ruvalcaba and Cade Cowell, who’ve supplied several of his goals. The trio is clicking on the same wavelength, sensing each other’s runs and pressuring opponents into mistakes.
“I’ve said it before in past interviews, he’s (Cade Cowell) set me up for so many goals,” Hall said. “Playing with someone like him and Jorge as well. You know, his skill it’s amazing to have two guys that can help me, and then I can help them in some ways. We’ve been building a great chemistry within the team, and we’re just happy to get the three points.”
Michael Bradley Praises Hall’s Mentality and Work Ethic
Hall appears to be destined to avoid the trappings that can sometimes throw promising young footballers off course. Head coach Michael Bradley has worked closely with Hall and sees an unassuming, fully dedicated desire within his star pupil.
“Jules is a great kid, nothing’s going to his head,” Bradley stated during Wednesday’s post-match press conference. “He comes in every day, ready to work, ready to train, ready to listen. You know, he has a great personality, he has really good starting points as a player, and I’ve enjoyed every second of working with him. So we’re going to continue to challenge him, continue to push him, continue to find the right ways to help him improve, but obviously we’re, we’re really, really excited for him.”
Cowell Sees Bright Future For Hall
After Wednesday’s victory, Hall is tied for the fourth-most goals scored in MLS with nine through 13 matches played. Cowell assisted Hall twice against Columbus and spoke of his excitement for Hall’s bright future.
“I think what he’s doing is pretty special,” Cowell said. “I was a young teenager playing, and it’s not easy to play every game at 100 percent and score goals. The hardest thing to do when you’re young is to be consistent.
“I feel like every game he’s brought a goal or something positive, and he’s been playing really well. That’s a huge step for a young player. He’s got a great mentality, and I think he’ll go places with that. The goals are one thing, but his mentality and how hard he works off the field is another.”
Hall’s energetic running and goal-poaching have made him a fan favorite at Harrison’s Sports Illustrated Stadium. At some point, he will need to choose whether he’ll be America’s darling or Poland’s pride when he makes his national team declaration.
So far, he hasn’t been drawn into the speculation over which country he will choose.
“Whatever happens, happens,” Hall said. “My focus is just with the club. Obviously, it’s a dream of anyone who plays to play in a World Cup. I hope someday that happens, but if it’s not this year, I’m going to keep working hard and strive for that goal.”
Whichever country is able to successfully recruit Hall will have a rising talent and model professional added to their ranks.
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