New England Revolution: A Poor Performance On A Big Stage

The Revolution aren’t one of the most popular sports team in New England, but last night was a chance for them to win some fans over in a nationally televised game. They got off to a phenomenal start with Fagundez missing a clear cut opportunity before Agudelo buried one in the first 12 minutes of the game. However, things took a turn for the worse after that.

May 20, 2015; Kansas City, KS, USA; New England Revolution forward Juan Agudelo (17) is congratulated by midfielder Kelyn Rowe (11) after Agudelo scored a goal against Sporting KC during the first half at Sporting Park. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

Kansas City got a beauty of a goal to tie the game from Dom Dwyer, and another from Nemeth, before Benny Feilhaber cashed in on one of the WORST penalty kick decision in the history of the MLS. They put the game out of reach with a goal that came less than a minute after the second half restart.

The Revolution may be 2nd in the Eastern Conference, but they still have numerous of issues to address. One of the more glaring issues from last night was the defense. Jermaine Jones is still stuck at Centerback, but he still doesn’t look completely comfortable.

It didn’t help that the defenses mistakes were a bit more glaring with Shuttlesworth on the bench. He has been spectacular since becoming the Revs starter, but a slight hand injury forced him to sit last night out.

Everything wasn’t all bad last night. London Woodbury continues to be a pleasant surprise for New England this season. The 23 year old continues to develop his game, and should be a fixture in the starting 11 for a long time to come. 

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The other big bright spot was Diego Fagundez. He lost his spot in the regular 11 after some lack luster efforts, but really impressed last night. Putting aside the golden opportunity he missed in the first 10 minutes, the kid did everything he could to keep the team in it before being subbed in the 54th minute. He was constantly tracking back, getting into solid attacking positions, and making smart plays in difficult situations.

The Revs have now dropped 7 points despite leading at some point in each of the last 3 games, and they have yet another big game coming up this weekend. They will be at home against Eastern Conference leading DC United. They beat them 2-1 in their only meeting in Gillette last season. If they have dreams of winning the Supporters Shield this season, they need to get all 3 points, and make a statement on Saturday night.