Revolution go great guns
The Revolution are averaging only 1.33 goals in their last three home games, less an indication of a lack of firepower than a concentrated defensive effort by opponents. But the Revolution have not surrendered a goal in their four games at home this season -- and they have given up only one in the run of play since the first half of the season opener.
These numbers are in part a manifestation of the Revolution's offensive threat, which is leading to conservative play by opponents, and are also indicative of the Revolution's defensive strengths.
Teams coming to Gillette Stadium are likely to adopt the tactics of the last three visitors -- either ultra-conservative, as Chivas USA was in a 1-0 loss April 30, or possession-oriented, as were Chicago (2-0 May 7) and D.C. United (1-0 Saturday night).
But the Revolution are playing so well, they are setting a high-octane attacking pace even on the road, and will attempt to continue it against the MetroStars at Giants Stadium Saturday.
The immediate fate of the Revolution could depend on the health of midfielder Shalrie Joseph (calf) and outside defenders-midfielders Cassio (turf toe), Joe Franchino (quadriceps), Marshall Leonard (groin), and James Riley (hamstring). The left side of midfield has long been a Revolution weakness, and the team has used four players at the position this season, the latest being Bermudian newcomer Khano Smith, who replaced Leonard early in the second half against D.C. United. It is a positive sign for the Revolution to have this type of depth, further illustrated by the reserve role being played by Jose Cancela.
The Revolution (6-0-1) are off to one of the best starts in MLS history, tied with Kansas City's 2000 team for the best start since the abolition of postmatch shootouts following ties.
This is the time of the season when the Revolution are usually desperately trying to recover and/or stabilize, knowing that only a late-season run will save their playoff hopes. Not so this year. The Revolution have earned 19 points in seven matches; last season they did not reach 19 points until the 19th game of the season, Aug. 7.
Pat Noonan has been producing, his fourth goal of the season opening the scoring in the 2-0 win over Chicago and his confident and purposeful dribble through the right side of the penalty area leading to a Taylor Twellman goal in the 59th minute against D.C.
"[Noonan] put on one of the best dribbling displays ever in the MLS," said Revolution defender Jay Heaps. "We feel we can shut down teams and, if we play smart and keep them out of our end, eventually we will score goals, we have so much firepower."
