“I think we just take the positives,’’ midfielder Chris Tierney said. “I think we passed the ball pretty well and did OK in the first half. So, we take those positives and try to take the momentum going into league games.

“As fun as it was, it was an exhibition game and we’re focused on the league, that’s our priority. So, we’ll take the 3 points and be happy to move on from there.’’

The Revolution have an eight-game winless streak (0-5-3) in MLS, their longest since a nine-gamer in 2003. They have not won since May 14 and will be playing without captain Shalrie Joseph, who is suspended because of yellow card accumulation.

“We just have to get on with it,’’ coach Steve Nicol said. “I mean, any team in the league is going to miss Shalrie. We’re not kidding ourselves. But it gives somebody a chance to step up and do well.’’

The Revolution displayed better composure and focus in possession in the opening half against Manchester United. And the Revolution had a breakout offensive performance in their last MLS match, though they squandered the advantage in a 3-3 tie at Real Salt Lake July 4.

“The first half, we did well,’’ Nicol said of Wednesday’s performance. “I think if you can stand in front of a team like Man U, whether it’s preseason or not - physically, they probably weren’t in peak condition, but between the ears it’s always the same - so, take that into the [next] game.’’

The Revolution (3-8-7, 16 points) have had a difficult road schedule so far. During this winless stretch, they have had only three home matches (0-1-2). But the Revolution have been in most of their games and are tied for fourth in goals-against average in the Eastern Conference.

“That’s a great thing but it’s also frustrating,’’ goalkeeper Matt Reis said. “We’ve left a lot of points out there. We’ve never been blown out of any game, we’ve been in every game, we’ve lost a lot of games by one goal. And that’s the frustrating thing. A couple bounces and a couple 3 points instead of zero points, a couple points instead of 1, and you’re right back in the hunt.

“That’s the one thing in the back of my mind - that we’re not far off of still being in contention.’’

The 2003 Revolution gained some late-season reinforcements (Chris Brown, Jose Cancela, Dario Fabbro, Jorge Vazquez) and rallied to reach the Eastern Conference final. The Revolution will attempt to use a similar formula this season, with at least one newcomer expected.

“We have to climb back and find a way to get points,’’ Reis said. “Especially at home.’’

Frank Dell’Apa can be reached at f_dellapa@globe.com.