Record at home has been anything but sweet

FOXBOROUGH - Compare the Revolution's home record to its road results in the MLS this season and the numbers are nearly equal.

The Revolution are 6-4-4 at Gillette Stadium this season, while posting a 6-4-3 record on the road. The numbers are not far off from previous seasons. In 2007, the Revolution were 8-3-4 at home and 8-3-5 in 2006, but a win or a tie here or there can make a difference in the standings.

Last night, the Revolution came back to save a 2-2 tie against Real Salt Lake. It took two late goals for New England to claim the point in the standings but the Revolution will have to wait another week before it can claim a playoff spot.

"This year we haven't played our best games at home," Revolution midfielder Steve Ralston said. "In previous years, we've gotten on teams early. [This year] we've been trying to fight and claw to get back into games every time we play at home."

The Revolution lost to the Columbus Crew, the MLS's top team, 1-0, at home Sept. 27. The Revolution plays on the road against Kansas City and D.C. United before ending the regular season at home against Kansas City Oct. 25.

Ralston said the last games are not only crucial for the Revolution to clinch a playoff spot but also to get ready for the postseason.

"We don't want to crawl into the playoffs," Ralston said. "We want to go in on a high note and play well and get some results."

A welcome addition
The Revolution had a familiar face at training last week. Defender Avery John, who played with the Revolution from 2004-2007, returned to Foxborough and worked out with former teammates. John was preparing to join the Trinidad and Tobago national team. He played this season with Miami FC of the United Soccer League's first division.

"It was tough obviously not to have him sign again, but at the same time I think he's done well," Revolution defender Jay Heaps said. "It was good to have him back here. He's accepted with open arms."

Parkhurst feted
Revolution defender Michael Parkhurst returned to his home state of Rhode Island last week to be honored by Gov. Donald Carcieri for his participation in the 2008 Olympics as a member of the US men's soccer team. Parkhurst is a native of Cranston, R.I., and was recognized along with swimmer Elizabeth Beisel and boxer Demetrius Andrade at the Rhode Island State House.

Monique Walker can be reached at mwalker@globe.com