In some slippery field conditions Saturday, the New England Revolution were unable to capitalize on late scoring opportunities as they fell to the Philadelphia Union 1-0 at PPL Park. The loss results in a 1-1-0 record for the Revs, with their home opener coming next weekend in Foxboro. The Union improve to 2-1-0 on the year, earning them the second spot in the Eastern Conference.
‘Jack Mac’ as he is better known around the MLS once again put Philadelphia on top, scoring the only goal of the night to bring down New England. Coming in the 76th minute, McInerny finished his own rebound after missing the header sent by Sebastien Le Toux. Earning a reputation as the ‘Revolution killer’ McInerny has now been the difference maker in 3 of the past 4 matches against the Union, scoring the game winning goal while finishing nearly all of them in the air. Philly now holds a 5-0-3 lead in the all-time series between the two clubs.
Although the Revolution have still failed to win following a season opening victory, the win-less streak at PPL Park is the more important stat. New England will face the Union two more times this season, both at Gillette Stadium. With the team learning day by day, you can feel the eagerness of the Revs to score and ultimately take down their east opponent in the near future.
Fans were happy to see homegrown newcomer Scott Caldwell and old Rev favorite Andy Dorman on the pitch, both playing a respectable game for their active minutes. Kalifa Cisse and Matt Reis were unexpected scratches due to injury, but we are starting to get a sense of just how head coach Jay Heaps will manage his 2013 starting XI. The defense should hold up with Soares and Goncalves commanding the back line, letting Andrew Farrell and Kevin Alston work their speed on the outside. Cisse and Dorman are the experienced midfielders that can push the ball up to play makers Nyugen, Toja, or Rowe. The question remains who exactly will be the forward to finish goal chances and score? Bengtson is the go to guy now, but it will be nice to see Barrett or Fagundez see what they can prove whit Jerry on World Cup leave next match.
New England’s home opener will be Saturday, March 23rd against Sporting KC (1-1-1). Kickoff is set at 4pm ET with coverage on the Comcast SportsNet and 98.5 The Sports Hub.
Matt Bloom