Sunday, May 06, 2007

Revs Beat Chicago 3-1

I woke up late this morning so I didn't have time to do a proper preview of this afternoon's game. I'm glad it worked out that way. I was going to have a picture of a rugby scrum and predict the inevitable 1-1 bloodbath at Gillette Stadium as the two heated rivals pushed and shoved their way through another lethargic contest. Luckily, I couldn't have been more wrong. (click title to read more)

Although far from beautiful soccer was on display at Gillette Stadium, the game was anything but physical as the Revs danced their way to a 3-1 victory. The referee called the game very tight and didn't allow either team to infringe excessively on the other (A frickin men). Those who saw Chicago's game a week ago in Houston can attest to my fears going into this one.

All three goals had nothing to do with Taylor Twellman or Andy Dorman which is a first from the run of play this year and a very good sign. Skipper Stevie Ralston had a goal and an assist, Wells Thompson sneaked his way through a defender to score his first MLS goal, and Adam Cristman made his presence known throughout the afternoon.

For my money, the player of the game was Jeff Larentowicz. He held the midfield rather admirably with Shalrie Joseph sitting out due to suspension. He also distributed the ball flawlessly at times and always seemed ahead of his Chicago counterparts.

Pat Noonan sat the game out to avoid aggravating his injuries and Andy Dorman was subbed out at the hour mark. For the Revs to score two goals in the second half with so many veteran players out of the game speaks volumes. Although, it's safe to say Chicago didn't bring their A game.

The Revs are now second in the MLS table on goal differential ahead of New York, although they have a game in hand. Their next contest is this weekend in LA who will be playing their second game in 3 1/2 weeks (the league back-loaded their games for Beckham). It'll be interesting to see how that one plays out.

2 Comments:

Adrian said...

Agree, Larentowicz as MOTM. He basically won single-handedly the midfield battle against Armas and Thiago, as Dorman was a non-factor and Parkhurst was lost.

http://a517dogg.blogspot.com/2007/05/good-soccer-day.html

Fanatico_Apasionado said...

Nicol did a great job with the subs. Incredible