2. MLS: Red Bulls fire Johnston

• by Soccer America , Jun 27, 2006

The New York Red Bulls fired Scotsman Mo Johnston as head coach and named assistant coach Richie Williams to coach the team on an interim basis until a new head coach is named.

“We are a results-driven company," said Red Bull managing director Marc de Grandpre, "and that’s what today’s decision is based on. Having only two wins through 12 games is unacceptable for our organization and above all else, our fans.”

The Red Bulls are 2-3-7 with wins over Chivas USA (May 20) and Los Angeles (June 17). Johnston first became the head coach on an interim basis last fall after Bob Bradley was relieved of his duties. He led the MetroStars to a 2-0-1 record over the team’s final three regular-season games, helping them earn a playoff berth. The MetroStars lost to the first-seeded New England Revolution, 3-2, on aggregate.

Williams, 36, was in his first season as an assistant coach with the Red Bulls. He played eight years in MLS and won three MLS titles with D.C. United. He starred at the University of Virginia for Bruce Arena and earned 17 caps with the U.S. national team. Arena's name has often been mentioned in connection with the Red Bulls' coaching job.

The Red Bulls also anounced today that they acquired left back Tim Dunivant from the Los Angeles Galaxy.