PHOENIX, AZ—Former Winthrop standout John Gilkerson made his first career start for the New York Red Bulls Wednesday evening in a 1-0 victory over CD Guadalajara at the University of Phoenix Stadium.

 

It was just Gilkerson’s second time in uniform with the first team New York Red Bulls squad and the first action he’s seen since being drafted in the 2008 supplemental draft. The three time All-Big South selection started the game and played 88 minutes in the defense which helped record the Red Bulls second consecutive shutout and fifth of the season.

 

"It was a good atmosphere and a great field," said Gilkerson. "It was like a dream. It's what you expect when you play your first game. Even though it wasn't an MLS contest, It felt good to finally get on the field with the guys I see play everyday."

 

Gilkerson became the second player in Winthrop history to see action for a Major League Soccer team. Former Eagle Marco Reda was a member of Toronto FC.