Heaps: Strides made, but 'miles to go'
November, 5, 2012
11/05/12
1:38
PM ET
By Brian O'Connell | ESPNBoston.com
FOXBOROUGH, Mass. -- Jay Heaps understands that it’s a process.
At this time a year ago, the Revolution were licking their wounds from a season that saw them claim a franchise-low five wins as well as a spot in the conference cellar. As a result, longtime head coach Steve Nicol was out, and a new coach would be needed to nurse the club back to health.
Now, fresh off his first year as head coach, Heaps looks back at the 2012 season -- one that saw the club’s win total (9), points (35), goals scored (39) and goals allowed (44) stats improve -- and believes his team is headed in the right direction.
But that doesn’t mean he’s satisfied.
“We made some (progress),” Heaps said. “But our away record still wasn’t good enough. So when you add (everything) together, yeah, we took some steps forward, but maybe we stepped back in some areas.”
Granted, the road record (2-12-3) wasn’t sparkling by any means. And yes, there were times in which the attack struggled mightily (12 attacking shutouts). Yet, it wasn’t a lost season, by any means.
One area in which Heaps was pleased this season was the emergence of newcomers Saer Sene (11 goals, 3 assists), Lee Nguyen (5 goals, 2 assists) and Kelyn Rowe (3 goals, 5 assists), all of whom were signed under varying circumstances.
The Revolution signed Sene after an extended preseason trial, while Rowe was drafted with the third overall pick in January’s SuperDraft. Then there was Nguyen, who was plucked from the scrap heap after the Whitecaps waived him prior to Week 1.
“I think we brought in some really good players,” Heaps said. “If you look at those three players, they’re our top three leading scorers right there.”
While the 2012 Revolution may have been more talented than their predecessors, one ongoing problem that spilled over from 2011 was giving up the dreaded late-game goal.
“We put ourselves in a decent position in a lot of games,” Revolution defender/midfielder Chris Tierney said. “But we didn’t have the wherewithal to see out the game and take out a point, if not three.”
Although there was certainly room for improvement in late-game situations, the Revolution made noticeable strides in other areas.
For starters, they focused on reclaiming their form at home. In 2011, the Revolution went 4-7-6 at Gillette Stadium. This year, they reversed that record, going 7-4-6 in front of the Foxborough faithful.
Another area of improvement: team defense. After giving up a whopping 58 goals last season, the Revolution defense worked on closing the passing lanes. The midfielders regularly dropped back to bolster the defense, and as a result the team cut its goals-allowed total by nearly a quarter (24 percent) in 2012.
Tierney believes the club’s resurgence in the rear is largely attributable to the experience that center backs A.J. Soares and Stephen McCarthy gained during their sophomore seasons.
“The more you play in this league, the more you figure out what it takes to win,” Tierney said. “I think a bunch of our young guys got a lot of minutes. So the more experience we get at playing in this level, the better we’ll be going forward.”
Even though a franchise-worst 10-game winless streak that stretched from mid-July through early-September bounced the Revolution from postseason contention, Heaps still believes that his club deserved better than its ninth-place finish.
“I think we’re a little disappointed in how we finished,” Heaps said. “We should’ve been higher up, maybe in the middle of the table, fighting for a playoff spot. So I think I was a little disappointed and surprised that we weren’t in the fight for the last five games of the season."
But Heaps won’t have time to dwell on that thought for long. With another two weeks of offseason training on the agenda, and a busy winter filled with scouting and player signings ahead, the Revolution head coach knows there’s still plenty to do before he can bring the club back to playoff glory.
“We have miles to go,” Heaps said. “But we’ve made up a lot of ground from where we were last year at this point.”
At this time a year ago, the Revolution were licking their wounds from a season that saw them claim a franchise-low five wins as well as a spot in the conference cellar. As a result, longtime head coach Steve Nicol was out, and a new coach would be needed to nurse the club back to health.
Now, fresh off his first year as head coach, Heaps looks back at the 2012 season -- one that saw the club’s win total (9), points (35), goals scored (39) and goals allowed (44) stats improve -- and believes his team is headed in the right direction.
But that doesn’t mean he’s satisfied.
“We made some (progress),” Heaps said. “But our away record still wasn’t good enough. So when you add (everything) together, yeah, we took some steps forward, but maybe we stepped back in some areas.”
Granted, the road record (2-12-3) wasn’t sparkling by any means. And yes, there were times in which the attack struggled mightily (12 attacking shutouts). Yet, it wasn’t a lost season, by any means.
One area in which Heaps was pleased this season was the emergence of newcomers Saer Sene (11 goals, 3 assists), Lee Nguyen (5 goals, 2 assists) and Kelyn Rowe (3 goals, 5 assists), all of whom were signed under varying circumstances.
The Revolution signed Sene after an extended preseason trial, while Rowe was drafted with the third overall pick in January’s SuperDraft. Then there was Nguyen, who was plucked from the scrap heap after the Whitecaps waived him prior to Week 1.
“I think we brought in some really good players,” Heaps said. “If you look at those three players, they’re our top three leading scorers right there.”
While the 2012 Revolution may have been more talented than their predecessors, one ongoing problem that spilled over from 2011 was giving up the dreaded late-game goal.
“We put ourselves in a decent position in a lot of games,” Revolution defender/midfielder Chris Tierney said. “But we didn’t have the wherewithal to see out the game and take out a point, if not three.”
Although there was certainly room for improvement in late-game situations, the Revolution made noticeable strides in other areas.
For starters, they focused on reclaiming their form at home. In 2011, the Revolution went 4-7-6 at Gillette Stadium. This year, they reversed that record, going 7-4-6 in front of the Foxborough faithful.
Another area of improvement: team defense. After giving up a whopping 58 goals last season, the Revolution defense worked on closing the passing lanes. The midfielders regularly dropped back to bolster the defense, and as a result the team cut its goals-allowed total by nearly a quarter (24 percent) in 2012.
Tierney believes the club’s resurgence in the rear is largely attributable to the experience that center backs A.J. Soares and Stephen McCarthy gained during their sophomore seasons.
“The more you play in this league, the more you figure out what it takes to win,” Tierney said. “I think a bunch of our young guys got a lot of minutes. So the more experience we get at playing in this level, the better we’ll be going forward.”
Even though a franchise-worst 10-game winless streak that stretched from mid-July through early-September bounced the Revolution from postseason contention, Heaps still believes that his club deserved better than its ninth-place finish.
“I think we’re a little disappointed in how we finished,” Heaps said. “We should’ve been higher up, maybe in the middle of the table, fighting for a playoff spot. So I think I was a little disappointed and surprised that we weren’t in the fight for the last five games of the season."
But Heaps won’t have time to dwell on that thought for long. With another two weeks of offseason training on the agenda, and a busy winter filled with scouting and player signings ahead, the Revolution head coach knows there’s still plenty to do before he can bring the club back to playoff glory.
“We have miles to go,” Heaps said. “But we’ve made up a lot of ground from where we were last year at this point.”
FOXBOROUGH, Mass. – At first blush, it may seem a little strange to see a team back on the practice field following their final game of the season.
But that’s precisely what the Revolution, along with a handful of fellow non-playoff clubs, will be doing for the next few weeks. The reason, according to head coach Jay Heaps, is two-fold.
“There are things that we’re working on still,” Heaps said. “We have these guys for another two weeks and we’re going to bring in additional players.”
Therein lies one of the hidden benefits of extending the practice schedule: the ability to trial potential signings. And with the Revs coaching staff already eying 2013, now is the time to start finding new players.
As for the players who are already on the roster, Heaps admits that the focus of the offseason training -- which is slated to run through Nov. 16 -- won’t be tactical. Rather, it’s working on the basics, such as passing and dead-ball situations.
“We want to push a couple things,” Heaps said. “We can keep them here and start building that regiment of how we want this season to lead into 2013.”
TALE OF TWO OFFSEASONS
One distinct difference between this year’s offseason training experience and last year’s isn’t all that difficult to pinpoint. Last year, the team commenced its offseason schedule without a head coach, as Steve Nicol parted ways with the club following the 2011 season finale.
Even though then-assistant Steve Myles led the training sessions, the absence of a bona fide head coach left some players unsure of what was expected of them.
“There’s a lot more structure this year,” Revolution midfielder Benny Feilhaber said. “Especially with the offseason training that we’re getting into. So I think that gives everybody a little more of a comfort zone.”
BETTER SAFE THAN SORRY
It wasn’t the way Stephen McCarthy wanted to finish up his second season in Foxborough.
But after concussive-like symptoms sidelined him for the Revolution’s final three games, the center back has no qualms about taking the recovery one step at a time.
“I just had a few lingering symptoms,” McCarthy said. “None of it was very serious, but we just decided to take it real slow."
McCarthy believes the start of the symptoms occurred in training leading up to the Sept. 29 game at Houston, which he went the full 90. He said he experienced a lingering headache and “felt a little off” following the game.
Instead of ignoring the signs, McCarthy, who was voted Best Defender by the Revolution media this season, worked with the team’s medical staff to ensure a smooth recovery. And he’s glad he did.
“It’s really hard to tell with concussions,” McCarthy said. “You kind of have to be the doctor for yourself because you’re the only person that can tell if something feels wrong.”
But that’s precisely what the Revolution, along with a handful of fellow non-playoff clubs, will be doing for the next few weeks. The reason, according to head coach Jay Heaps, is two-fold.
“There are things that we’re working on still,” Heaps said. “We have these guys for another two weeks and we’re going to bring in additional players.”
Therein lies one of the hidden benefits of extending the practice schedule: the ability to trial potential signings. And with the Revs coaching staff already eying 2013, now is the time to start finding new players.
As for the players who are already on the roster, Heaps admits that the focus of the offseason training -- which is slated to run through Nov. 16 -- won’t be tactical. Rather, it’s working on the basics, such as passing and dead-ball situations.
“We want to push a couple things,” Heaps said. “We can keep them here and start building that regiment of how we want this season to lead into 2013.”
TALE OF TWO OFFSEASONS
One distinct difference between this year’s offseason training experience and last year’s isn’t all that difficult to pinpoint. Last year, the team commenced its offseason schedule without a head coach, as Steve Nicol parted ways with the club following the 2011 season finale.
Even though then-assistant Steve Myles led the training sessions, the absence of a bona fide head coach left some players unsure of what was expected of them.
“There’s a lot more structure this year,” Revolution midfielder Benny Feilhaber said. “Especially with the offseason training that we’re getting into. So I think that gives everybody a little more of a comfort zone.”
BETTER SAFE THAN SORRY
It wasn’t the way Stephen McCarthy wanted to finish up his second season in Foxborough.
But after concussive-like symptoms sidelined him for the Revolution’s final three games, the center back has no qualms about taking the recovery one step at a time.
“I just had a few lingering symptoms,” McCarthy said. “None of it was very serious, but we just decided to take it real slow."
McCarthy believes the start of the symptoms occurred in training leading up to the Sept. 29 game at Houston, which he went the full 90. He said he experienced a lingering headache and “felt a little off” following the game.
Instead of ignoring the signs, McCarthy, who was voted Best Defender by the Revolution media this season, worked with the team’s medical staff to ensure a smooth recovery. And he’s glad he did.
“It’s really hard to tell with concussions,” McCarthy said. “You kind of have to be the doctor for yourself because you’re the only person that can tell if something feels wrong.”
Revs finally get the lucky bounce
October, 29, 2012
10/29/12
3:41
PM ET
By Brian O'Connell | ESPNBoston.com
It was a win that didn’t come easily by any means.
Pitted against an adversary that played their strongest soccer at home, the Revolution contained the Impact’s relentless attack at Stade Saputo and came out with a 1-0 victory on Saturday.
“It was tough for us (on Saturday), there’s no doubt about that,” Revolution midfielder Chris Tierney said after the game. “We didn’t pass particularly well, but what we did do was we got the lucky bounce we needed that we haven’t gotten this year.”
While passing wasn’t their forte on Saturday, the Revolution made up for it in front of their net -- where they defended in numbers and thwarted several of Montreal’s offensive chances.
Granted, Marco Di Vaio (seven shots) and Davy Arnaud (two shots) may have found space to roam. And, yes, there may have been a few occasions in which the Revolution all but extended a formal invitation for the Impact to score.
But, whether it was a last-gasp clearance from Ryan Guy or A.J. Soares, or a Blair Gavin denial right on the line, the Revolution defense remained resolute to keep their opponent off the board.
“We absorbed all their pressure and defended really well,” Revolution center back A.J. Soares said after the game. “There wasn’t one guy not working out there.”
One player who certainly kept working was Revolution goalkeeper Bobby Shuttleworth, who collected a career-high seven saves on Saturday afternoon. His biggest save came in the 73rd minute after Justin Mapp slipped past Guy and fired a high-caliber shot that Shuttleworth parried away.
Even though they weren’t able to muster much in front of Montreal’s net, the Revolution survived the Impact’s advances long enough to capitalize on a fortuitous opportunity in the 88th minute.
After Ryan Guy was fouled along the right edge of the area, Tierney stood behind the ball and delivered a curling cross that glanced off Soares’ forehead and fell into the back of the net.
“It was a perfect ball,” Soares said. “I just had to give the guy half a foot of room, jump up, get my head to it and it was going in. The service was perfect.”
Tierney’s service may have been perfect, but on the whole, the Revolution were far from it on Saturday.
Yet, for all the times this season in which the effort and technique was there but the final product wasn’t, Tierney commended the team’s resolve to stay focused when the execution faltered.
“It’s good to know that we can win when we have to dig in and grab one out,” Tierney said. “You (have) to win this way in this league. It’s just the way it is. You’re not always going to have your best stuff, but if you can dig in and find a way like we did (on Saturday), you’re going to win games."
Pitted against an adversary that played their strongest soccer at home, the Revolution contained the Impact’s relentless attack at Stade Saputo and came out with a 1-0 victory on Saturday.
“It was tough for us (on Saturday), there’s no doubt about that,” Revolution midfielder Chris Tierney said after the game. “We didn’t pass particularly well, but what we did do was we got the lucky bounce we needed that we haven’t gotten this year.”
While passing wasn’t their forte on Saturday, the Revolution made up for it in front of their net -- where they defended in numbers and thwarted several of Montreal’s offensive chances.
Granted, Marco Di Vaio (seven shots) and Davy Arnaud (two shots) may have found space to roam. And, yes, there may have been a few occasions in which the Revolution all but extended a formal invitation for the Impact to score.
But, whether it was a last-gasp clearance from Ryan Guy or A.J. Soares, or a Blair Gavin denial right on the line, the Revolution defense remained resolute to keep their opponent off the board.
“We absorbed all their pressure and defended really well,” Revolution center back A.J. Soares said after the game. “There wasn’t one guy not working out there.”
One player who certainly kept working was Revolution goalkeeper Bobby Shuttleworth, who collected a career-high seven saves on Saturday afternoon. His biggest save came in the 73rd minute after Justin Mapp slipped past Guy and fired a high-caliber shot that Shuttleworth parried away.
Even though they weren’t able to muster much in front of Montreal’s net, the Revolution survived the Impact’s advances long enough to capitalize on a fortuitous opportunity in the 88th minute.
After Ryan Guy was fouled along the right edge of the area, Tierney stood behind the ball and delivered a curling cross that glanced off Soares’ forehead and fell into the back of the net.
“It was a perfect ball,” Soares said. “I just had to give the guy half a foot of room, jump up, get my head to it and it was going in. The service was perfect.”
Tierney’s service may have been perfect, but on the whole, the Revolution were far from it on Saturday.
Yet, for all the times this season in which the effort and technique was there but the final product wasn’t, Tierney commended the team’s resolve to stay focused when the execution faltered.
“It’s good to know that we can win when we have to dig in and grab one out,” Tierney said. “You (have) to win this way in this league. It’s just the way it is. You’re not always going to have your best stuff, but if you can dig in and find a way like we did (on Saturday), you’re going to win games."
Revs win in Montreal, end on high note
October, 27, 2012
10/27/12
5:00
PM ET
By Brian O'Connell | ESPNBoston.com
Revolution center back AJ Soares scored the game-winning goal in the 88th minute to beat the Montreal Impact 1-0 in Saturday's season finale.
Soares' second goal of the season arrived in the 88th minute when Chris Tierney played a free kick into the box, where the Revolution center back nodded it inside the far post.
Revolution keeper Bobby Shuttleworth made four stops to earn his second straight shutout.
Prior to Saturday's contest, the Revolution had gone 0-11-2 in their previous 13 road contests, a streak that started with a 1-0 loss at Dallas on April 5.
With the win, the Revolution end their season with a 9-17-8 (35 points) record while the Impact close out their inaugural campaign with a 12-16-6 (42 points) mark.
Midfield makeover: Revolution head coach Jay Heap switched up his midfield on Saturday, with Chris Tierney stationed on the left; Benny Feilhaber, Clyde Simms and Fernando Cardenas in the center; and Diego Fagundez featured on the right. Of the five in the starting lineup, only Simms and Fagundez were part of the starting XI last week against Chicago.
Potent foe suspended: Montreal forward Sanna Nyassi, who's grabbed the game-winning goals in the previous two meetings against the Revolution this season, was unavailable for Saturday's game due to suspension. The speedy attacker was handed the suspension for yellow card accumulation following an 87th minute caution during last weekend's 0-0 draw at Toronto FC.
Road goal drought ends: Thanks to Soares' 87th-minute strike, the Revolution ended a 296-minute goalless streak on the road that dated back to a 2-1 loss at D.C. on Sept. 15.
North of the border success ... finally: The 1-0 victory marked the first time the Revolution have grabbed three points in Canada. Going into Saturday's match north of the border, the Revolution were 0-3-5 in their previous eight contests as guests of Canadian competition (Montreal, Toronto and Vancouver).
Ending the season on a high note: For the first time since 2009, the Revolution closed out the regular season with a win. In their previous two season finales, the Revolution fell 2-0 at New York (2010) and settled for a 2-2 draw at Toronto (2011).
Soares' second goal of the season arrived in the 88th minute when Chris Tierney played a free kick into the box, where the Revolution center back nodded it inside the far post.
Revolution keeper Bobby Shuttleworth made four stops to earn his second straight shutout.
Prior to Saturday's contest, the Revolution had gone 0-11-2 in their previous 13 road contests, a streak that started with a 1-0 loss at Dallas on April 5.
With the win, the Revolution end their season with a 9-17-8 (35 points) record while the Impact close out their inaugural campaign with a 12-16-6 (42 points) mark.
Midfield makeover: Revolution head coach Jay Heap switched up his midfield on Saturday, with Chris Tierney stationed on the left; Benny Feilhaber, Clyde Simms and Fernando Cardenas in the center; and Diego Fagundez featured on the right. Of the five in the starting lineup, only Simms and Fagundez were part of the starting XI last week against Chicago.
Potent foe suspended: Montreal forward Sanna Nyassi, who's grabbed the game-winning goals in the previous two meetings against the Revolution this season, was unavailable for Saturday's game due to suspension. The speedy attacker was handed the suspension for yellow card accumulation following an 87th minute caution during last weekend's 0-0 draw at Toronto FC.
Road goal drought ends: Thanks to Soares' 87th-minute strike, the Revolution ended a 296-minute goalless streak on the road that dated back to a 2-1 loss at D.C. on Sept. 15.
North of the border success ... finally: The 1-0 victory marked the first time the Revolution have grabbed three points in Canada. Going into Saturday's match north of the border, the Revolution were 0-3-5 in their previous eight contests as guests of Canadian competition (Montreal, Toronto and Vancouver).
Ending the season on a high note: For the first time since 2009, the Revolution closed out the regular season with a win. In their previous two season finales, the Revolution fell 2-0 at New York (2010) and settled for a 2-2 draw at Toronto (2011).
Can Revs end road skid in Montreal finale?
October, 26, 2012
10/26/12
11:17
PM ET
By Brian O'Connell | ESPNBoston.com
Saturday's season finale in Montreal won't have any bearing on where the ninth-place Revolution finish on the Eastern Conference table. None whatsoever.
Philadelphia hovers four points above them in eighth place, while Toronto sits nine points below in the 10th spot. So playing for table positions is out of question. The Revolution will finish right where they are right now, win, lose or draw.
But that doesn't mean Jay Heaps won't have any motivation material prepared for the club's stay in Montreal. Quite the opposite, in fact.
For starters, Heaps need only point to the team's previous pair of games against the expansion Impact. On July 18, Montreal midfielder/forward Sanna Nyassi -- twin brother of Revolution midfielder Sainey Nyassi -- terrorized the Revolution defense by drawing the foul to set up Patrice Bernier's 28th minute penalty strike before he did the dirty work on his own with a 67th minute goal. At the final whistle, the Impact pocketed a 2-1 win.
Nyassi reprised his goalscoring role for the rematch at Gillette Stadium on Aug. 12. In a scoreless match through 60 minutes, Nyassi, who this time came off the bench, raced right into Revolution end and slipped it past Matt Reis to give the guests the only goal the Impact needed in a 1--0 victory.
The common link between the two clashes: the Revolution's curious lack of offense, especially when pitted against Montreal's porous defense. For Heaps, whose emphasis on the attack has never waned, Saturday's contest is one last chance to take advantage of the mistake-prone Impact.
Another topic for the Revolution to tackle on Saturday: drawing the curtains on their 13-game slide away from Gillette Stadium. Since their 3-1 win at Los Angeles on Mar. 31, the Revolution have gone a woeful 0-11-2. Clearly, it's a trend that Heaps would like to end before the final whistle blows on the regular season.
Lastly, there's the unavoidable truth that Saturday's finale may be the final opportunity for a few players on the Revolution team sheet to make an impression. Granted, Heaps has probably made the bulk of his personnel decisions by now. However, the possibility remains that the game-day 18 will feature a few names that will need to put forth a strong showing in order to punch a return ticket for the preseason.
As far as the standings and playoff race are concerned, Saturday's game is a fruitless affair. Not only is New England locked into the ninth spot, but Montreal won't be escaping seventh place. So there's no room for advancement for either side. And the playoff train the left the station for both clubs quite some time ago.
Yet, for the Revolution, who enter Saturday's season finale with a sizable chip on their shoulder, there's still plenty to play for once referee Jorge Gonzalez sets his watch for the final 90 minutes of the season.
Philadelphia hovers four points above them in eighth place, while Toronto sits nine points below in the 10th spot. So playing for table positions is out of question. The Revolution will finish right where they are right now, win, lose or draw.
But that doesn't mean Jay Heaps won't have any motivation material prepared for the club's stay in Montreal. Quite the opposite, in fact.
For starters, Heaps need only point to the team's previous pair of games against the expansion Impact. On July 18, Montreal midfielder/forward Sanna Nyassi -- twin brother of Revolution midfielder Sainey Nyassi -- terrorized the Revolution defense by drawing the foul to set up Patrice Bernier's 28th minute penalty strike before he did the dirty work on his own with a 67th minute goal. At the final whistle, the Impact pocketed a 2-1 win.
Nyassi reprised his goalscoring role for the rematch at Gillette Stadium on Aug. 12. In a scoreless match through 60 minutes, Nyassi, who this time came off the bench, raced right into Revolution end and slipped it past Matt Reis to give the guests the only goal the Impact needed in a 1--0 victory.
The common link between the two clashes: the Revolution's curious lack of offense, especially when pitted against Montreal's porous defense. For Heaps, whose emphasis on the attack has never waned, Saturday's contest is one last chance to take advantage of the mistake-prone Impact.
Another topic for the Revolution to tackle on Saturday: drawing the curtains on their 13-game slide away from Gillette Stadium. Since their 3-1 win at Los Angeles on Mar. 31, the Revolution have gone a woeful 0-11-2. Clearly, it's a trend that Heaps would like to end before the final whistle blows on the regular season.
Lastly, there's the unavoidable truth that Saturday's finale may be the final opportunity for a few players on the Revolution team sheet to make an impression. Granted, Heaps has probably made the bulk of his personnel decisions by now. However, the possibility remains that the game-day 18 will feature a few names that will need to put forth a strong showing in order to punch a return ticket for the preseason.
As far as the standings and playoff race are concerned, Saturday's game is a fruitless affair. Not only is New England locked into the ninth spot, but Montreal won't be escaping seventh place. So there's no room for advancement for either side. And the playoff train the left the station for both clubs quite some time ago.
Yet, for the Revolution, who enter Saturday's season finale with a sizable chip on their shoulder, there's still plenty to play for once referee Jorge Gonzalez sets his watch for the final 90 minutes of the season.
The Revolution (8-17-8, 32 points) will close out the 2012 season north of the border on Saturday, when they face the expansion Montreal Impact (12-15-6, 42 points) at Stade Saputo.
Saturday’s season finale kicks off at 2 p.m. and will be televised by Comcast Sports Net New England. The Sports Hub 98.5 will carry the radio broadcast.
Montreal claimed a 2-1 win over the Revolution at Stade Saputo on July 18, and earned a 1-1 draw at Gillette Stadium on Aug. 12.
REVS NOTES:
-- With Saturday’s season finale in Montreal, the Revolution will close out their season in Canada for the second straight year. Last year, the Revolution settled for a 2-2 draw at Toronto on Oct. 22, 2011.
-- The Revolution are still in search of their first win north of the border, going a combined 0-3-5 against Canadian competition (0-2-4 in Toronto, 0-0-1 in Vancouver and 0-1-0 at Montreal).
-- New England is also in search of its first road goal since a 2-1 loss at D.C. on Sept. 15.
-- Injured Revolution midfielder Lee Nguyen is the only player on the roster with a goal against Montreal. Nguyen is out for Saturday’s contest after having shoulder surgery in September.
-- The Revolution have not beaten an expansion team on the road since 2009, when they beat Seattle 1-0 on Aug. 20 at Qwest Field (now CenturyLink Field).
-- Although goalkeeper Matt Reis started the Revolution’s previous two matches against Montreal, his understudy, Bobby Shuttleworth, is projected to get the start on Saturday.
-- Following Saturday’s finale, the Revolution will return to Foxborough for postseason training, which will continue through November.
INJURY REPORTS (as of Oct. 23):
Montreal Impact -- OUT: DF Nelson Rivas (L knee surgery); MF Felipe (sports hernia); FW Bernardo Corradi (L knee ACL tear)
N.E. Revolution -- OUT: DF Flo Lechner (R knee MCL sprain); MF Lee Nguyen (R shoulder surgery); FW Saer Sene (L knee ACL surgery); DOUBTFUL: DF Stephen McCarthy (concussive-like symptoms); QUESTIONABLE: MF Clyde Simms (R quad strain); PROBABLE: MF Ryan Guy (R foot contusion)
Saturday’s season finale kicks off at 2 p.m. and will be televised by Comcast Sports Net New England. The Sports Hub 98.5 will carry the radio broadcast.
Montreal claimed a 2-1 win over the Revolution at Stade Saputo on July 18, and earned a 1-1 draw at Gillette Stadium on Aug. 12.
REVS NOTES:
-- With Saturday’s season finale in Montreal, the Revolution will close out their season in Canada for the second straight year. Last year, the Revolution settled for a 2-2 draw at Toronto on Oct. 22, 2011.
-- The Revolution are still in search of their first win north of the border, going a combined 0-3-5 against Canadian competition (0-2-4 in Toronto, 0-0-1 in Vancouver and 0-1-0 at Montreal).
-- New England is also in search of its first road goal since a 2-1 loss at D.C. on Sept. 15.
-- Injured Revolution midfielder Lee Nguyen is the only player on the roster with a goal against Montreal. Nguyen is out for Saturday’s contest after having shoulder surgery in September.
-- The Revolution have not beaten an expansion team on the road since 2009, when they beat Seattle 1-0 on Aug. 20 at Qwest Field (now CenturyLink Field).
-- Although goalkeeper Matt Reis started the Revolution’s previous two matches against Montreal, his understudy, Bobby Shuttleworth, is projected to get the start on Saturday.
-- Following Saturday’s finale, the Revolution will return to Foxborough for postseason training, which will continue through November.
INJURY REPORTS (as of Oct. 23):
Montreal Impact -- OUT: DF Nelson Rivas (L knee surgery); MF Felipe (sports hernia); FW Bernardo Corradi (L knee ACL tear)
N.E. Revolution -- OUT: DF Flo Lechner (R knee MCL sprain); MF Lee Nguyen (R shoulder surgery); FW Saer Sene (L knee ACL surgery); DOUBTFUL: DF Stephen McCarthy (concussive-like symptoms); QUESTIONABLE: MF Clyde Simms (R quad strain); PROBABLE: MF Ryan Guy (R foot contusion)
Total effort pays off for Revs
October, 23, 2012
10/23/12
1:33
AM ET
By Brian O'Connell | ESPNBoston.com
FOXBOROUGH, Mass. -- Jay Heaps made no bones about what the injury-ravaged Revolution had to do to beat the playoff-bound Fire on Saturday.
Given the degree of difficulty the conference clash brought, the first-year head coach knew that there was going to be little room for error.
“For us to win (Saturday night), we needed to play almost a perfect game,” Heaps said after Saturday’s 1-0 win. “During the season, any time we played, we’d play perfectly anytime up to the 70th minute or give away a goal at a bad time.”
Of course, there’s never an ideal time to give away a goal. But in their previous three games, the Revolution had conceded backbreaking, late-game goals to New York, Houston and Philadelphia.
Granted, they rallied back against New York to grab a 1-1 draw. The outcomes in Houston and Philadelphia were different, with both opponents using strikes in the final 20 minutes to overtake the Revolution. Clearly, something had to change.
So on Saturday, the objective was clear: 90 minutes of mistake-free soccer.
In order to point the squad in the right direction, Heaps dropped forward Diego Fagundez into the midfield, essentially asking him to temper his attack-first mentality and add more to the defensive cause.
“I knew (Saturday) was going to be a lot of work,” Fagundez said after Saturday’s game. “I’ve been talking about it a lot with Jay in training so I came to the game focusing more on defense because attacking is something I was born with. Today was more about defense and helping out the team defensively.”
While Fagundez was doing his part to track back and help his defenders out, another Revolution player was doing his best to stay focused on preventing the Fire from finding the back of the net.
On a night in which he faced only a single shot on goal, the challenge presented to goalkeeper Bobby Shuttleworth was simply to stay alert.
“As a goalkeeper, you always have to stay tuned in to what’s going on,” Shuttleworth said after Saturday’s contest. “The way I stay tuned in is I try and be as vocal as possible. So talking to A.J. (Soares) and Darrius (Barnes) and those guys along the back line where if I’m being vocal with those guys, I’m snapped into where the ball is and where the play is and helping to try and prevent people from getting into those gaps.”
In front of Soares and Barnes in the Revolution's 4-1-4-1 formation was defensive midfielder Clyde Simms, whom Heaps had the most praise for following the defensive midfielder’s effort to blanket Fire playmaker Chris Rolfe.
“I think that Clyde did an amazing job,” Heaps said. “He had a quiet night, but when you go back and look (at) the work Clyde put in tonight, wherever (Chris Rolfe) was, Clyde was there.”
In hindsight, it wasn’t a perfect performance by any stretch. However, the collective effort exhibited certainly proved to be enough to get the victory, which, however way you slice it, was a step in the right direction for the Revolution.
“We’re still developing and maturing,” Heaps said. “As we continue to go and you see the things we’re trying to do, the players are really picking up on how we go into games.”
Given the degree of difficulty the conference clash brought, the first-year head coach knew that there was going to be little room for error.
“For us to win (Saturday night), we needed to play almost a perfect game,” Heaps said after Saturday’s 1-0 win. “During the season, any time we played, we’d play perfectly anytime up to the 70th minute or give away a goal at a bad time.”
Of course, there’s never an ideal time to give away a goal. But in their previous three games, the Revolution had conceded backbreaking, late-game goals to New York, Houston and Philadelphia.
Granted, they rallied back against New York to grab a 1-1 draw. The outcomes in Houston and Philadelphia were different, with both opponents using strikes in the final 20 minutes to overtake the Revolution. Clearly, something had to change.
So on Saturday, the objective was clear: 90 minutes of mistake-free soccer.
In order to point the squad in the right direction, Heaps dropped forward Diego Fagundez into the midfield, essentially asking him to temper his attack-first mentality and add more to the defensive cause.
“I knew (Saturday) was going to be a lot of work,” Fagundez said after Saturday’s game. “I’ve been talking about it a lot with Jay in training so I came to the game focusing more on defense because attacking is something I was born with. Today was more about defense and helping out the team defensively.”
While Fagundez was doing his part to track back and help his defenders out, another Revolution player was doing his best to stay focused on preventing the Fire from finding the back of the net.
On a night in which he faced only a single shot on goal, the challenge presented to goalkeeper Bobby Shuttleworth was simply to stay alert.
“As a goalkeeper, you always have to stay tuned in to what’s going on,” Shuttleworth said after Saturday’s contest. “The way I stay tuned in is I try and be as vocal as possible. So talking to A.J. (Soares) and Darrius (Barnes) and those guys along the back line where if I’m being vocal with those guys, I’m snapped into where the ball is and where the play is and helping to try and prevent people from getting into those gaps.”
In front of Soares and Barnes in the Revolution's 4-1-4-1 formation was defensive midfielder Clyde Simms, whom Heaps had the most praise for following the defensive midfielder’s effort to blanket Fire playmaker Chris Rolfe.
“I think that Clyde did an amazing job,” Heaps said. “He had a quiet night, but when you go back and look (at) the work Clyde put in tonight, wherever (Chris Rolfe) was, Clyde was there.”
In hindsight, it wasn’t a perfect performance by any stretch. However, the collective effort exhibited certainly proved to be enough to get the victory, which, however way you slice it, was a step in the right direction for the Revolution.
“We’re still developing and maturing,” Heaps said. “As we continue to go and you see the things we’re trying to do, the players are really picking up on how we go into games.”
New look produces uncommon result
October, 21, 2012
10/21/12
6:24
PM ET
By Brian O'Connell | ESPNBoston.com
FOXBOROUGH, Mass. -- It may have taken a long-distance blast by Diego Fagundez to get on the board, but make no mistake: The Revolution’s 1-0 win over the playoff-bound Chicago Fire was a team effort.
Sure, their guests may have gotten the better of the possession (55 percent), the passing accuracy (79.6 percent to 75.8 percent) and total passes (490 to 388).
But when the Fire had the ball, the Revolution converged to cut off space and kept their guests from firing a single shot on goal until the 86th minute.
“I thought that we put in a complete performance tonight,” Revolution goalkeeper Bobby Shuttleworth said. “They didn’t really have a ton of chances. I thought the guys in front of me were great. Everyone was putting the effort forward. We had a good shape to us.”
Shuttleworth, who was rarely tested by the Chicago attack, stopped a Patrick Nyarko shot four minutes from full time to earn his second shutout of the season.
One of the primary reasons why Shuttleworth had a quiet night was a byproduct of the 4-1-4-1 formation, a variant of the club’s standard 4-2-2 shape.
The reason coach Jay Heaps decided to change the look centered on one particular Fire playmaker whose reputation for giving the Revolution fits could no longer be ignored.
Chris Rolfe, the engine in Chicago’s attack, was largely kept under wraps by Clyde Simms, who played deeper than usual to keep the Fire midfielder from making his mark on the game.
“The last couple of games we’ve watched him going forward,” Simms said after the game. “He finds really good spots when they cause turnovers and he’s the first guy to give the outlet ball and he’s gone.”
By canceling out Rolfe, the Revolution were able to focus on the counterattack, which they worked to perfection in the 17th minute.
With the ball deep in the midfield, Kelyn Rowe played it forward to Fagundez in space as the Fire hurried back to contain the mohawked midfielder. But they weren’t quick enough, as Fagundez went ahead and ripped a shot that Sean Johnson had no chance to stop to give the Revolution their first lead since a 2-0 win over the Crew on Sept. 5.
“Everyone was playing well,” Fagundez said. “We were moving the ball and Kelyn just played it through the middle and I was just making a good run. Once I got to the top of 18, I was trying to pass but nobody was open, so I saw the back post and took that shot and it went in.”
The Revolution midfield and defense handled the rest. With Rowe, Simms and Blair Gavin, who was acquired from Chivas USA in the Shalrie Joseph trade on Aug. 1, inside the central midfield, the hosts were able to set a defensive tempo, while grabbing a few more chances going forward.
“I thought Clyde, Blair and Kelyn did a great job of kind of doubling down when (the Fire) were trying to play those penetrating balls coming forward,” Shuttleworth said.
Even after Gavin came off in the 61st minute for Juan Toja, the midfield continued to plug the passing lanes and stifle Rolfe and company. With the final whistle approaching, it was clear the Revolution achieved their objective.
But before the whistle blew, the midfield put together a solid bid to make it a two-goal game in the 90th minute. After taking a pass from Rowe, Toja played a ball through to Fagundez, who raced toward the near post before crossing it over to the oncoming Jerry Bengtson. But with an open net in front of him, Bengtson volleyed his shot over the bar.
Despite the blown opportunity, the Revolution were able to hold on for the win -- and not only because of the execution, but because of the tactical switch, which worked like a charm against Chicago.
“We had a great game plan coming in,” Shuttleworth said. “I thought we did a great job of keeping the tight lines and keeping the guys compact. We kind of harped on that all week. That was our game plan and we did well to do that.”
Sure, their guests may have gotten the better of the possession (55 percent), the passing accuracy (79.6 percent to 75.8 percent) and total passes (490 to 388).
But when the Fire had the ball, the Revolution converged to cut off space and kept their guests from firing a single shot on goal until the 86th minute.
“I thought that we put in a complete performance tonight,” Revolution goalkeeper Bobby Shuttleworth said. “They didn’t really have a ton of chances. I thought the guys in front of me were great. Everyone was putting the effort forward. We had a good shape to us.”
Shuttleworth, who was rarely tested by the Chicago attack, stopped a Patrick Nyarko shot four minutes from full time to earn his second shutout of the season.
One of the primary reasons why Shuttleworth had a quiet night was a byproduct of the 4-1-4-1 formation, a variant of the club’s standard 4-2-2 shape.
The reason coach Jay Heaps decided to change the look centered on one particular Fire playmaker whose reputation for giving the Revolution fits could no longer be ignored.
Chris Rolfe, the engine in Chicago’s attack, was largely kept under wraps by Clyde Simms, who played deeper than usual to keep the Fire midfielder from making his mark on the game.
“The last couple of games we’ve watched him going forward,” Simms said after the game. “He finds really good spots when they cause turnovers and he’s the first guy to give the outlet ball and he’s gone.”
By canceling out Rolfe, the Revolution were able to focus on the counterattack, which they worked to perfection in the 17th minute.
With the ball deep in the midfield, Kelyn Rowe played it forward to Fagundez in space as the Fire hurried back to contain the mohawked midfielder. But they weren’t quick enough, as Fagundez went ahead and ripped a shot that Sean Johnson had no chance to stop to give the Revolution their first lead since a 2-0 win over the Crew on Sept. 5.
“Everyone was playing well,” Fagundez said. “We were moving the ball and Kelyn just played it through the middle and I was just making a good run. Once I got to the top of 18, I was trying to pass but nobody was open, so I saw the back post and took that shot and it went in.”
The Revolution midfield and defense handled the rest. With Rowe, Simms and Blair Gavin, who was acquired from Chivas USA in the Shalrie Joseph trade on Aug. 1, inside the central midfield, the hosts were able to set a defensive tempo, while grabbing a few more chances going forward.
“I thought Clyde, Blair and Kelyn did a great job of kind of doubling down when (the Fire) were trying to play those penetrating balls coming forward,” Shuttleworth said.
Even after Gavin came off in the 61st minute for Juan Toja, the midfield continued to plug the passing lanes and stifle Rolfe and company. With the final whistle approaching, it was clear the Revolution achieved their objective.
But before the whistle blew, the midfield put together a solid bid to make it a two-goal game in the 90th minute. After taking a pass from Rowe, Toja played a ball through to Fagundez, who raced toward the near post before crossing it over to the oncoming Jerry Bengtson. But with an open net in front of him, Bengtson volleyed his shot over the bar.
Despite the blown opportunity, the Revolution were able to hold on for the win -- and not only because of the execution, but because of the tactical switch, which worked like a charm against Chicago.
“We had a great game plan coming in,” Shuttleworth said. “I thought we did a great job of keeping the tight lines and keeping the guys compact. We kind of harped on that all week. That was our game plan and we did well to do that.”
Rapid Reaction: Revolution 1, Fire 0
October, 20, 2012
10/20/12
10:34
PM ET
By Brian O'Connell | ESPNBoston.com
FOXBOROUGH, Mass. -- Revolution midfielder Diego Fagundez scored from 30 yards and the Revolution held on to beat the Chicago Fire 1-0 at Gillette Stadium on Saturday.
The 17-year-old scored his second goal of the season in the 17th minute after he picked up a pass from Kelyn Rowe and ripped a shot from distance to score the lone goal of the game. Bobby Shuttleworth stopped an 86th-minute Patrick Nyarko shot to pick up his second shutout of the season.
With the win, the Revolution's record goes to 8-17-8 (32 points) while the Fire drop to 17-11-5 (56 points).
Tierney returns: After missing the club's last four games, Revolution left back Chris Tierney returned to the field after coming on in the 64th minute for forward Dimitry Imbongo.
Bengtson cautioned: Revolution striker Jerry Bengtson picked up his first caution of the season in the 44th minute.
Scoreless drought over: The 17th-minute goal from Diego Fagundez snapped a 196-minute scoreless streak that dates back to the Revolution's 1-1 draw to New York on Sept. 22.
Revolution team award winners: Prior to the game, the Revolution announced their team award winners. Midfielder Lee Nguyen picked up Team MVP while center back Stephen McCarthy took home Defender of the Year. Meanwhile, goalkeeper Matt Reis earned Humanitarian of the Year.
Gavin makes his Revs debut: Midfielder Blair Gavin, who was acquired from Chivas USA in the Shalrie Joseph trade on Aug. 1, made his first appearance in a Revolution uniform on Saturday and went 61 minutes before coming off for Juan Toja after the hour. Gavin, who missed significant time due to injury, last played on July 21 for Chivas USA.
Feilhaber a bystander: Revolution midfielder Benny Feilhaber served his one-game suspension for the red card he received in the club's Oct. 6 contest against the Union.
Closing time: The Revolution wrap up their 2012 regular-season campaign next Saturday at Montreal against the Impact at Stade Saputo at 2 p.m.
The 17-year-old scored his second goal of the season in the 17th minute after he picked up a pass from Kelyn Rowe and ripped a shot from distance to score the lone goal of the game. Bobby Shuttleworth stopped an 86th-minute Patrick Nyarko shot to pick up his second shutout of the season.
With the win, the Revolution's record goes to 8-17-8 (32 points) while the Fire drop to 17-11-5 (56 points).
Tierney returns: After missing the club's last four games, Revolution left back Chris Tierney returned to the field after coming on in the 64th minute for forward Dimitry Imbongo.
Bengtson cautioned: Revolution striker Jerry Bengtson picked up his first caution of the season in the 44th minute.
Scoreless drought over: The 17th-minute goal from Diego Fagundez snapped a 196-minute scoreless streak that dates back to the Revolution's 1-1 draw to New York on Sept. 22.
Revolution team award winners: Prior to the game, the Revolution announced their team award winners. Midfielder Lee Nguyen picked up Team MVP while center back Stephen McCarthy took home Defender of the Year. Meanwhile, goalkeeper Matt Reis earned Humanitarian of the Year.
Gavin makes his Revs debut: Midfielder Blair Gavin, who was acquired from Chivas USA in the Shalrie Joseph trade on Aug. 1, made his first appearance in a Revolution uniform on Saturday and went 61 minutes before coming off for Juan Toja after the hour. Gavin, who missed significant time due to injury, last played on July 21 for Chivas USA.
Feilhaber a bystander: Revolution midfielder Benny Feilhaber served his one-game suspension for the red card he received in the club's Oct. 6 contest against the Union.
Closing time: The Revolution wrap up their 2012 regular-season campaign next Saturday at Montreal against the Impact at Stade Saputo at 2 p.m.
Revs look to protect 'fortress' from Fire
October, 19, 2012
10/19/12
8:09
PM ET
By Brian O'Connell | ESPNBoston.com
Earlier this season, Revolution players and coaches often spoke about making a Gillette Stadium a "fortress." A place where the opposition dreaded playing. A place where the guests would struggle to assert themselves. A place where the Revolution were at their strongest.
The Revolution did well to back their words in the first half of the season, going 5-1-3 in their first nine home contests and coming within one win of leveling their overall mark at 6-7-3.
Then, things took a turn for the worse. Once the second half of the season arrived, the Revolution struggled mightily at home, and went 1-3-3 in front of the home fans. Clearly, there was nothing imposing about New England's home park anymore.
But with Saturday's home finale on tap, the Revolution will seek to re-establish the stadium's early-season reputation one last time when they face the playoff-bound Chicago Fire.
The second-place squad enters the contest coming off a statement win over conference rival New York at Red Bull Arena on Oct. 6. Both went into the game level on points (53) with a playoff berth at stake. Although the Red Bulls looked ready to run away with the win, it was the Fire that found a pair of goals from Sherjill MacDonald en route to an emphatic 2-0 win, which allowed the club to secure a playoff spot.
While the Fire and Red Bulls were battling for playoff positions two weekends ago, the Revolution continued their reeling form on the road, thanks to a 1-0 loss in Philadelphia. Head coach Jay Heaps was forced to use a makeshift lineup due to a litany of injuries, and nearly held on for a draw. But that was until Jack McInerney headed home the lone goal of the game in the 73rd minute to give the similarly embattled Union maximum points.
On its face, Saturday's matchup has all the makings of an easy win for the Fire. In terms of available talent, the Fire have the clear upper hand.
But with a playoff bid already in their back pocket, Fire coach Frank Klopas might be more focused on preserving his regulars, even after the international break. At this time of the year, there's no such thing as too much rest, especially for a team preparing for a postseason that'll extend to Dec. 1 this year. In light of that, the Revolution may have caught Chicago at just the right time.
Meanwhile, Heaps will continue to piece together his strongest 11 players, despite a lengthy injury report. Benny Feilhaber will be forced to the role of spectator due to red card suspension, but Heaps is expected to have left back Chris Tierney available after a four-game absence, as well as center back AJ Soares, who left the field in Philadelphia prematurely with a knee injury.
The last time the Fire came to Foxborough, the Revolution staked a 2-0 win on June 2. At the time, it was a sure sign that the Revolution were a club to be reckoned with at home. On Saturday, the hosts hope to make their home field a fortress one last time in 2012.
The Revolution did well to back their words in the first half of the season, going 5-1-3 in their first nine home contests and coming within one win of leveling their overall mark at 6-7-3.
Then, things took a turn for the worse. Once the second half of the season arrived, the Revolution struggled mightily at home, and went 1-3-3 in front of the home fans. Clearly, there was nothing imposing about New England's home park anymore.
But with Saturday's home finale on tap, the Revolution will seek to re-establish the stadium's early-season reputation one last time when they face the playoff-bound Chicago Fire.
The second-place squad enters the contest coming off a statement win over conference rival New York at Red Bull Arena on Oct. 6. Both went into the game level on points (53) with a playoff berth at stake. Although the Red Bulls looked ready to run away with the win, it was the Fire that found a pair of goals from Sherjill MacDonald en route to an emphatic 2-0 win, which allowed the club to secure a playoff spot.
While the Fire and Red Bulls were battling for playoff positions two weekends ago, the Revolution continued their reeling form on the road, thanks to a 1-0 loss in Philadelphia. Head coach Jay Heaps was forced to use a makeshift lineup due to a litany of injuries, and nearly held on for a draw. But that was until Jack McInerney headed home the lone goal of the game in the 73rd minute to give the similarly embattled Union maximum points.
On its face, Saturday's matchup has all the makings of an easy win for the Fire. In terms of available talent, the Fire have the clear upper hand.
But with a playoff bid already in their back pocket, Fire coach Frank Klopas might be more focused on preserving his regulars, even after the international break. At this time of the year, there's no such thing as too much rest, especially for a team preparing for a postseason that'll extend to Dec. 1 this year. In light of that, the Revolution may have caught Chicago at just the right time.
Meanwhile, Heaps will continue to piece together his strongest 11 players, despite a lengthy injury report. Benny Feilhaber will be forced to the role of spectator due to red card suspension, but Heaps is expected to have left back Chris Tierney available after a four-game absence, as well as center back AJ Soares, who left the field in Philadelphia prematurely with a knee injury.
The last time the Fire came to Foxborough, the Revolution staked a 2-0 win on June 2. At the time, it was a sure sign that the Revolution were a club to be reckoned with at home. On Saturday, the hosts hope to make their home field a fortress one last time in 2012.
After a week off due to the FIFA International break, the Revolution (7-17-8, 29 points) return to the field for their home finale against the Chicago Fire (17-10-5, 56 points) at Gillette Stadium.
Saturday’s contest kicks off at 7:30 p.m. and will be televised on Comcast Sports Net New England via alternate channel. The Sports Hub 98.5 will provide a radio broadcast.
The conference clash wraps up the regular-season series between the former postseason rivals. On June 2, the Revolution staked a 2-0 win over the Fire at Gillette Stadium, but the Fire returned the favor on Aug. 18 when they defeated the Revolution 2-1 at Toyota Park.
NOTES:
-- The Revolution will announce their team awards prior to Saturday’s home finale. Up for grabs is team MVP, Best Defender, and Humanitarian of the Year. Last year’s award winners were Matt Reis (MVP), A.J. Soares (Best Defender) and Zak Boggs, who shared the Humanitarian of the Year honors with Reis.
-- On Tuesday, Fall River (Mass.) Mayor William Flanagan made his pitch to bring the Revolution to Southeastern New England. In a letter issued to Revolution owner Robert Kraft, Flanagan states that Fall River is an “ideal” location for the club due to a high density of Portuguese people in the city. However, Flanagan did not cite a locale for a possible stadium. Meanwhile, two other Commonwealth cities -- Revere and Somerville -- remain the frontrunners in Revolution stadium discussions.
-- Revolution striker Jerry Bengtson collected a hat trick for his native Honduras in Tuesday’s 8-1 romp over Canada in World Cup Qualifying. Bengtson’s strikes arrived in the 7th, 17th and 83rd minutes. He has scored six goals for his country since signing with the Revolution in July.
-- The Fire boasts a trio of faces familiar to local fans. Defender Cory Gibbs (2010) and midfielders Wells Thompson (2007-09) and Mike Videira (2009-10) all sported the Revolution uniform in recent years.
INJURY REPORTS (as of Oct. 16):
Chicago Fire -- OUT: DF Cory Gibbs (R knee meniscus repair); QUESTIONABLE: MF Pavel Pardo (L calf tightness)
N.E. Revolution -- OUT: DF Flo Lechner (R knee MCL sprain); DF Stephen McCarthy (concussive-like symptoms); MF Lee Nguyen (R shoulder surgery); DF Tyler Polak (R foot sprain); FW Saer Sene (L knee ACL surgery); QUESTIONABLE: DF A.J. Soares (R knee sprain); DF Chris Tierney (L knee sprain / L hamstring strain); MF Juan Toja (L knee swelling); PROBABLE: FW Alec Purdie (L quad strain)
Saturday’s contest kicks off at 7:30 p.m. and will be televised on Comcast Sports Net New England via alternate channel. The Sports Hub 98.5 will provide a radio broadcast.
The conference clash wraps up the regular-season series between the former postseason rivals. On June 2, the Revolution staked a 2-0 win over the Fire at Gillette Stadium, but the Fire returned the favor on Aug. 18 when they defeated the Revolution 2-1 at Toyota Park.
NOTES:
-- The Revolution will announce their team awards prior to Saturday’s home finale. Up for grabs is team MVP, Best Defender, and Humanitarian of the Year. Last year’s award winners were Matt Reis (MVP), A.J. Soares (Best Defender) and Zak Boggs, who shared the Humanitarian of the Year honors with Reis.
-- On Tuesday, Fall River (Mass.) Mayor William Flanagan made his pitch to bring the Revolution to Southeastern New England. In a letter issued to Revolution owner Robert Kraft, Flanagan states that Fall River is an “ideal” location for the club due to a high density of Portuguese people in the city. However, Flanagan did not cite a locale for a possible stadium. Meanwhile, two other Commonwealth cities -- Revere and Somerville -- remain the frontrunners in Revolution stadium discussions.
-- Revolution striker Jerry Bengtson collected a hat trick for his native Honduras in Tuesday’s 8-1 romp over Canada in World Cup Qualifying. Bengtson’s strikes arrived in the 7th, 17th and 83rd minutes. He has scored six goals for his country since signing with the Revolution in July.
-- The Fire boasts a trio of faces familiar to local fans. Defender Cory Gibbs (2010) and midfielders Wells Thompson (2007-09) and Mike Videira (2009-10) all sported the Revolution uniform in recent years.
INJURY REPORTS (as of Oct. 16):
Chicago Fire -- OUT: DF Cory Gibbs (R knee meniscus repair); QUESTIONABLE: MF Pavel Pardo (L calf tightness)
N.E. Revolution -- OUT: DF Flo Lechner (R knee MCL sprain); DF Stephen McCarthy (concussive-like symptoms); MF Lee Nguyen (R shoulder surgery); DF Tyler Polak (R foot sprain); FW Saer Sene (L knee ACL surgery); QUESTIONABLE: DF A.J. Soares (R knee sprain); DF Chris Tierney (L knee sprain / L hamstring strain); MF Juan Toja (L knee swelling); PROBABLE: FW Alec Purdie (L quad strain)
Revs keep busy during break
October, 15, 2012
10/15/12
1:32
AM ET
By Brian O'Connell | ESPNBoston.com
Major League Soccer was on hiatus this weekend for the FIFA International break, but the action didn’t stop for a collection of Revolution players.
Here’s how a few of them spent the past week:
* Striker Jerry Bengtson went 90 minutes for Honduras in their 0-0 draw to Panama on Friday.
* Midfielder/forward Diego Fagundez came on as a substitute for the Uruguay under-20 squad in its 2-0 win in an international friendly against Peru on Friday.
* Goalkeeper Tim Murray returned to his alma mater on Saturday as he attended to his duties as Providence College men’s soccer assistant coach. With Murray on the sideline, the Friars claimed a 3-2 win over conference rival Pittsburgh.
Other Revolution news and items:
* The Revolution Youth Academy kicked off the 2012-13 U.S. Development Academy schedule on Saturday. The Revs U-16s fell 2-1 to the Albertson SC U-16s in Stony Brook, NY.
* After collecting a franchise-record 10 red cards in 2011, the Revolution are likely to finish with less than half that total in 2012. Through 32 games, the team has collected only three, with one of them -- Fernando Cardenas’ May 5 ejection at Salt Lake -- later rescinded by the league after the team appealed it.
* Goalkeeper Matt Reis is eight saves away from reaching his seventh career 100-save season. But with backup Bobby Shuttleworth starting the team’s last three games, Reis may fall short of the century mark for the first time since an injury-plagued 2010 season.
* Although the Revolution currently sit one goal below their total from 2011 (38), the goals-allowed stat is much improved from last season. With two games to go, the Revolution have allowed 44 goals and are likely to finish well below the 58 strikes they conceded in 2011.
* With the regular season wrapping up, the Revolution already are making plans for the 2013 preseason. For the second straight year, the Revolution will play in the FC Tucson Desert Diamond Cup preseason tournament beginning on Feb. 13, 2013. Earlier this year, the Revolution earned a spot in the tournament title game before falling in penalties to the Galaxy.
Here’s how a few of them spent the past week:
* Striker Jerry Bengtson went 90 minutes for Honduras in their 0-0 draw to Panama on Friday.
* Midfielder/forward Diego Fagundez came on as a substitute for the Uruguay under-20 squad in its 2-0 win in an international friendly against Peru on Friday.
* Goalkeeper Tim Murray returned to his alma mater on Saturday as he attended to his duties as Providence College men’s soccer assistant coach. With Murray on the sideline, the Friars claimed a 3-2 win over conference rival Pittsburgh.
Other Revolution news and items:
* The Revolution Youth Academy kicked off the 2012-13 U.S. Development Academy schedule on Saturday. The Revs U-16s fell 2-1 to the Albertson SC U-16s in Stony Brook, NY.
* After collecting a franchise-record 10 red cards in 2011, the Revolution are likely to finish with less than half that total in 2012. Through 32 games, the team has collected only three, with one of them -- Fernando Cardenas’ May 5 ejection at Salt Lake -- later rescinded by the league after the team appealed it.
* Goalkeeper Matt Reis is eight saves away from reaching his seventh career 100-save season. But with backup Bobby Shuttleworth starting the team’s last three games, Reis may fall short of the century mark for the first time since an injury-plagued 2010 season.
* Although the Revolution currently sit one goal below their total from 2011 (38), the goals-allowed stat is much improved from last season. With two games to go, the Revolution have allowed 44 goals and are likely to finish well below the 58 strikes they conceded in 2011.
* With the regular season wrapping up, the Revolution already are making plans for the 2013 preseason. For the second straight year, the Revolution will play in the FC Tucson Desert Diamond Cup preseason tournament beginning on Feb. 13, 2013. Earlier this year, the Revolution earned a spot in the tournament title game before falling in penalties to the Galaxy.
Heaps sees plenty for Revs to play for
October, 12, 2012
10/12/12
1:09
PM ET
By Brian O'Connell | ESPNBoston.com
FOXBOROUGH, Mass. -- At first glance, it may look like there isn’t much left for Revolution head coach Jay Heaps to tackle during this week’s bye.
With only two games left on the schedule and the playoffs out of the picture, many coaches might be tempted to ease off the gas. Loosen the reins. Incorporate a lighter approach training, perhaps.
But taking it easy is a concept completely foreign to Heaps. So naturally, his standard approach and preparation routines won’t deviate much this week, even with time running out on the regular season.
“Right now, we’re working hard, pushing guys,” Heaps said after training on Wednesday. “Even though we know the season’s only got two games left for us, we have a lot left to train for and play for because we have to start the process of building a team.”
A team for 2013, that is. Although the calendar may still read “2012,” next year is already here for Heaps.
“This (week) is like another preseason for us because we can push players and see what players are going to be able to do,” Heaps said. “So this is also an evaluation time as well. “
THE GO-TO GUY
One of the reasons why Heaps is using the bye week for evaluations may be out of necessity.
With a host of players on the mend, Heaps has been forced to plug players into different positions, both on the training pitch and the playing field.
One player who’s been moved around is midfielder Ryan Guy, who split time between right back and center back during last week’s 1-0 loss at Philadelphia.
While some players may grumble at the constant shifting, the veteran midfielder embraces the opportunity to play wherever Heaps asks him to.
“Playing around the field has really given a chance to see different aspects of the game,” Guy said after training on Wednesday. “I get a better grasp of where we need adjustments and so when I do go back to my ‘normal’ position, I have a better idea of what we need and what’s going to be expected of me to get positive results.”
That insight, of course, is something that Guy is often asked to relay to Heaps in order to make in-game tactical adjustments.
Of course, Guy may not be the most experienced at playing in the back. Nonetheless, he believes that the rotating assignment is a vote confidence by the coaching staff -- something that takes off some of the edge when featuring in an unfamiliar role.
“When you have the coaches trusting you and respecting you, it definitely makes it a lot easier,” Guy said. “So when (Heaps) asks me to play another position, I have no qualms about it because I know he’s thought about it. He’s talked to the other assistants about it and he has confidence (in me). So if he has confidence, why shouldn’t I?”
FEILHABER ADMITS FAULT FOR SUSPENSION
With a recent rash of injuries creating constant lineup shuffling for the Revolution, Heaps’ job won’t get much easier come the club’s next game on Oct. 20 against the Fire.
The central midfielder was cautioned twice for a pair of fouls on Union forward Antoine Hoppenot in the 86th and 88th minute, with the second leading to the subsequent red card ejection.
Although Feilhaber believes that referee Jorge Gonzalez was swayed by a pair of Union players’ appeals on the first caution, he fully admits that the second caution was a “stupid” play on his part.
“This one’s on me,” Feilhaber said after training on Wednesday. “It’s not a coaching decision. It’s one that I basically took myself out of the game by getting that red card. It’s disappointing, but you have to live in the present.”
With only two games left on the schedule and the playoffs out of the picture, many coaches might be tempted to ease off the gas. Loosen the reins. Incorporate a lighter approach training, perhaps.
But taking it easy is a concept completely foreign to Heaps. So naturally, his standard approach and preparation routines won’t deviate much this week, even with time running out on the regular season.
“Right now, we’re working hard, pushing guys,” Heaps said after training on Wednesday. “Even though we know the season’s only got two games left for us, we have a lot left to train for and play for because we have to start the process of building a team.”
A team for 2013, that is. Although the calendar may still read “2012,” next year is already here for Heaps.
“This (week) is like another preseason for us because we can push players and see what players are going to be able to do,” Heaps said. “So this is also an evaluation time as well. “
THE GO-TO GUY
One of the reasons why Heaps is using the bye week for evaluations may be out of necessity.
With a host of players on the mend, Heaps has been forced to plug players into different positions, both on the training pitch and the playing field.
One player who’s been moved around is midfielder Ryan Guy, who split time between right back and center back during last week’s 1-0 loss at Philadelphia.
While some players may grumble at the constant shifting, the veteran midfielder embraces the opportunity to play wherever Heaps asks him to.
“Playing around the field has really given a chance to see different aspects of the game,” Guy said after training on Wednesday. “I get a better grasp of where we need adjustments and so when I do go back to my ‘normal’ position, I have a better idea of what we need and what’s going to be expected of me to get positive results.”
That insight, of course, is something that Guy is often asked to relay to Heaps in order to make in-game tactical adjustments.
Of course, Guy may not be the most experienced at playing in the back. Nonetheless, he believes that the rotating assignment is a vote confidence by the coaching staff -- something that takes off some of the edge when featuring in an unfamiliar role.
“When you have the coaches trusting you and respecting you, it definitely makes it a lot easier,” Guy said. “So when (Heaps) asks me to play another position, I have no qualms about it because I know he’s thought about it. He’s talked to the other assistants about it and he has confidence (in me). So if he has confidence, why shouldn’t I?”
FEILHABER ADMITS FAULT FOR SUSPENSION
With a recent rash of injuries creating constant lineup shuffling for the Revolution, Heaps’ job won’t get much easier come the club’s next game on Oct. 20 against the Fire.
The central midfielder was cautioned twice for a pair of fouls on Union forward Antoine Hoppenot in the 86th and 88th minute, with the second leading to the subsequent red card ejection.
Although Feilhaber believes that referee Jorge Gonzalez was swayed by a pair of Union players’ appeals on the first caution, he fully admits that the second caution was a “stupid” play on his part.
“This one’s on me,” Feilhaber said after training on Wednesday. “It’s not a coaching decision. It’s one that I basically took myself out of the game by getting that red card. It’s disappointing, but you have to live in the present.”
Revs again can't put it together
October, 9, 2012
10/09/12
1:53
AM ET
By Brian O'Connell | ESPNBoston.com
If the Revolution’s 1-0 loss to the Union on Saturday bore an uncanny resemblance to the previous week’s 2-0 defeat to the Dynamo, it’s because the local XI fell into an all-too-familiar script at Philadelphia.
Not only did the Revolution struggle to create scoring opportunities, but they allowed their opponent to dominate the midfield and take advantage from the flanks. As a result, New England found itself on the wrong side of the scoreboard.
Again.
“It’s the same story,” Revolution left back Kevin Alston told RevsWrap after the game. “We fought, we had our chances (and) we couldn’t put those chances away. Set pieces and letting in goals toward the end of the game killed us again.”
First, the chances. There weren’t many for the Revolution early, especially during a first half in which their possession stat sunk below 40 percent.
Their best chance of the night arrived in the 29th minute when Jerry Bengtson played a give-and-go with Diego Fagundez at the edge of the box. On the return pass, Bengtson found himself alone with only Union keeper Zac MacMath to beat at the left post -- the same left post that stopped the Revolution striker from scoring an easy goal.
“It’s not good enough on our end,” Revolution coach Jay Heaps told RevsWrap after the game. “At this point, we have to finish our chances on the road. We hit the post, and we didn’t finish our chances.”
Next, the fight. After an unsettling first half, the guests asserted themselves with greater frequency in the second frame. Their possession improved. Their advances became sharper. They looked like a team that wanted to steal three points from Philadelphia.
At least that was the intention.
With the Union hungry to extend its unbeaten streak against their conference foes, the hosts did their guests one better.
In the 73rd minute, Keon Daniel launched a set piece cross from the right flank that found Jack McInerney at the back post. A split-second later, the ball was in the back of the net. Once again, the Revolution fell into a late-game deficit.
Of course, there was plenty of time to dig out an equalizer. Benny Feilhaber and Fernando Cardenas sparked the attack in the latter stages. Feilhaber went forward with purpose and Cardenas used his speed to sneak though the Union defense.
“I thought we rallied well into the second half,” Heaps said. “(We) had a little bit more possession and some more opportunities.”
Then, two minutes from full time, it all fell apart. Feilhaber was awarded his second caution in as many minutes. Doomed to 10 men for the remainder, all the Revolution could do was hope for a break to fall their way. It never came.
“We’re right there,” Alston said. “We haven’t quite got it yet. We’re fighting all game. We’re creating chances, but we can’t quite put it together.”
Not only did the Revolution struggle to create scoring opportunities, but they allowed their opponent to dominate the midfield and take advantage from the flanks. As a result, New England found itself on the wrong side of the scoreboard.
Again.
“It’s the same story,” Revolution left back Kevin Alston told RevsWrap after the game. “We fought, we had our chances (and) we couldn’t put those chances away. Set pieces and letting in goals toward the end of the game killed us again.”
First, the chances. There weren’t many for the Revolution early, especially during a first half in which their possession stat sunk below 40 percent.
Their best chance of the night arrived in the 29th minute when Jerry Bengtson played a give-and-go with Diego Fagundez at the edge of the box. On the return pass, Bengtson found himself alone with only Union keeper Zac MacMath to beat at the left post -- the same left post that stopped the Revolution striker from scoring an easy goal.
“It’s not good enough on our end,” Revolution coach Jay Heaps told RevsWrap after the game. “At this point, we have to finish our chances on the road. We hit the post, and we didn’t finish our chances.”
Next, the fight. After an unsettling first half, the guests asserted themselves with greater frequency in the second frame. Their possession improved. Their advances became sharper. They looked like a team that wanted to steal three points from Philadelphia.
At least that was the intention.
With the Union hungry to extend its unbeaten streak against their conference foes, the hosts did their guests one better.
In the 73rd minute, Keon Daniel launched a set piece cross from the right flank that found Jack McInerney at the back post. A split-second later, the ball was in the back of the net. Once again, the Revolution fell into a late-game deficit.
Of course, there was plenty of time to dig out an equalizer. Benny Feilhaber and Fernando Cardenas sparked the attack in the latter stages. Feilhaber went forward with purpose and Cardenas used his speed to sneak though the Union defense.
“I thought we rallied well into the second half,” Heaps said. “(We) had a little bit more possession and some more opportunities.”
Then, two minutes from full time, it all fell apart. Feilhaber was awarded his second caution in as many minutes. Doomed to 10 men for the remainder, all the Revolution could do was hope for a break to fall their way. It never came.
“We’re right there,” Alston said. “We haven’t quite got it yet. We’re fighting all game. We’re creating chances, but we can’t quite put it together.”
Rapid Reaction: Union 1, Revolution 0
October, 6, 2012
10/06/12
9:40
PM ET
By Brian O'Connell | ESPNBoston.com
Jack McInerney's 73rd-minute goal was all the Union needed to stake a 1-0 win over the Revolution at PPL Park on Saturday.
Union keeper Zac MacMath made three saves to earn his eighth shutout of the season and help the eighth-place club notch their third win in their last four.
With the loss, the Revolution's record dropped to 7-17-8 (29 points) while the Union upped their mark to 10-15-6 (36 points).
Feilhaber sent off: Benny Feilhaber earned a red card dismissal after he was cautioned in the 86th and 88th minutes. Saturday's ejection marked the second time in as many seasons that Feilhaber received an early exit against the Union. On July 17, 2011, the central midfielder was awarded yellows in the 49th and 66th minutes before he was sent to the locker room.
McInerney to the rescue again: McInerney's goal was his second game-winning goal against the Revolution this season. On July 29, the 20-year-old striker scored an 89th-minute goal at the far post to lift the Union to a 2-1 win.
Scary moment: The Revolution averted danger in the 12th minute when McInerney applied a heavy challenge on a ball that Kevin Alston tried to shepherd to Bobby Shuttleworth. But as McInerney converged, Alston and Shuttleworth collided, and both appeared shaken up in the immediate aftermath. Both remained in the game without any lingering aftereffects.
Union tough to break: The Revolution will have to wait until 2013 at the earliest to find their first win against the Union, who entered the league in 2010. With Saturday's loss, the Revolution's mark against the Union stands at 0-4-3 all-time.
Soares gets early exit: Center back AJ Soares came out in the 61st minute after he was on the receiving end of a few hard challenges. Soares was substituted for midfielder Fernando Cardenas, which forced a few positional switches for Alec Purdie and Ryan Guy.
Shutout mark set: The Revolution's 1-0 loss set a franchise record for attacking shutouts in a single season. The previous record was 11, a mark originally set in 2010 before the club tied the record last week after a 2-0 loss to the Dynamo.
Purdie sees first MLS start: Rookie midfielder Alec Purdie earned his first start of the season, featuring on the left side of the midfield for the Revolution on Saturday. He racked up his first MLS shot on goal in the 42nd minute and later dropped back to play right back after the hour mark. Prior to Saturday's start, Purdie had made four cameo appearances, his last coming on May 12 against Vancouver.
Next up: The Revolution will close out their 2012 home schedule on Oct. 20 when they host the Chicago Fire at Gillette Stadium. The game will kick off at 7:30 p.m.
Union keeper Zac MacMath made three saves to earn his eighth shutout of the season and help the eighth-place club notch their third win in their last four.
With the loss, the Revolution's record dropped to 7-17-8 (29 points) while the Union upped their mark to 10-15-6 (36 points).
Feilhaber sent off: Benny Feilhaber earned a red card dismissal after he was cautioned in the 86th and 88th minutes. Saturday's ejection marked the second time in as many seasons that Feilhaber received an early exit against the Union. On July 17, 2011, the central midfielder was awarded yellows in the 49th and 66th minutes before he was sent to the locker room.
McInerney to the rescue again: McInerney's goal was his second game-winning goal against the Revolution this season. On July 29, the 20-year-old striker scored an 89th-minute goal at the far post to lift the Union to a 2-1 win.
Scary moment: The Revolution averted danger in the 12th minute when McInerney applied a heavy challenge on a ball that Kevin Alston tried to shepherd to Bobby Shuttleworth. But as McInerney converged, Alston and Shuttleworth collided, and both appeared shaken up in the immediate aftermath. Both remained in the game without any lingering aftereffects.
Union tough to break: The Revolution will have to wait until 2013 at the earliest to find their first win against the Union, who entered the league in 2010. With Saturday's loss, the Revolution's mark against the Union stands at 0-4-3 all-time.
Soares gets early exit: Center back AJ Soares came out in the 61st minute after he was on the receiving end of a few hard challenges. Soares was substituted for midfielder Fernando Cardenas, which forced a few positional switches for Alec Purdie and Ryan Guy.
Shutout mark set: The Revolution's 1-0 loss set a franchise record for attacking shutouts in a single season. The previous record was 11, a mark originally set in 2010 before the club tied the record last week after a 2-0 loss to the Dynamo.
Purdie sees first MLS start: Rookie midfielder Alec Purdie earned his first start of the season, featuring on the left side of the midfield for the Revolution on Saturday. He racked up his first MLS shot on goal in the 42nd minute and later dropped back to play right back after the hour mark. Prior to Saturday's start, Purdie had made four cameo appearances, his last coming on May 12 against Vancouver.
Next up: The Revolution will close out their 2012 home schedule on Oct. 20 when they host the Chicago Fire at Gillette Stadium. The game will kick off at 7:30 p.m.
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New England Revolution
The New England Revolution are one of the 10 original MLS teams that began play in 1996. In their history, the Revolution have reached the MLS Cup finals four times (2002, 2005, 2006 and 2007) but have yet to win. For more information on the Revs, check out their official website or follow them on Twitter here.