Meara, now 31, learned to stay focused and prepared because you never know when your next opportunity will knock. The starting keeper could suffer an injury or be red-carded, and you’ll be called on to enter the game cold.
"I've seen over the years how important it is to just constantly stay ready because you never know when your time is going to come," he said, remembering back to the Red Bulls Open Cup run in 2017 in which they lost in the Final. "I had a big part of that run, and I was so proud. When my number is called I just step in and be ready and help the team win."
In 2018, Robles' starting streak was snapped when he was sidelined for several games. Meara made some big saves in the 3-1 win at Atlanta United that May 20. It was a vital three points as the Red Bulls wound up winning the Supporters' Shield by two points over their rivals.
"Just to be able to step in and do your part and help the team win, it's the best feeling," Meara said.
In 50 MLS matches since 2012, the 6-4, 185-lb. Meara has logged a 1.39 goals-against average.
Back-up Key
"There's no excuse that this guy hasn't played in a while. You have to be ready and help your team win," Meara went on. "That's just how I go about my business. I always say if you always stay ready, you never have to get ready. It might be the boring cliche answer, but it's just training every week like you're the guy playing on the weekend.
“Even though I haven't started as much as I would have liked over my career, I think that's why I've been able to stick around and have an 11-year career,” he said. “It's just making the most of the opportunities when they come."
Besides, Meara knows how fortunate he is to have a professional career.
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June 22, 2022 at 12:05AM
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Red Bull Ryan Meara & the Long Wait - U.S. Soccer
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