Rare goals from Kevin Alston and Jerry Bengtson helped the New England Revolution take full points from the Houston Dynamo on Saturday night. Alston’s goal, which came in the 68th minute, was the first of his MLS career. Meanwhile, Bengtson’s stoppage time tally was his first since Mar. 9, 2013. The Revs (2-3-1) will now travel to Toyota Park to face the Chicago Fire (0-1-5).
Three Thoughts from Revs v. Dynamo
- The backline was stellar. With Chris Tierney struggling with hip irritation, Alston made his first start since the season opener. The sixth year player showed no signs of rust as he was active both offensively and defensively. In the 38th minute, Rico Clark hit Jose Goncalves with a crunching tackle that forced the captain to leave with a right quad injury. Darrius Barnes came into the game as a right back, moving Andrew Farrell to the center. Despite the changes, the Revs limited the Dynamo to nine shots with zero being on target. The performance on Saturday is encouraging because the defense-first mindset was what made the Revs successful last year.
- Teal Bunbury needs to improve his shooting accuracy. There is no question that Bunbury is working hard. The Canadian-born striker is creating space, playing with his back to goal and fighting for every ball. Bunbury isn’t, however, shooting with accuracy. In 540 minutes, Bunbury has registered 14 shots with four being on frame. With players like Diego Fagundez and Saer Sene always lurking near the box, Bunbury at least needs to get his shots on target. If he continues to struggle, it might be better to put Bunbury on the wing with Bengtson, Dimitry Imbongo or Charlie Davies playing as the loan striker.
- One moment could have changed the game. Last week, the Revs were sent into disarray when Goncalves scored an own goal against DC United. The mistake forced the Revs adjust their playing style, which eventually allowed DC to score an insurance goal. This week, déjà vu nearly struck when Alston’s attempt to clear a Giles Barnes’ cross came disturbingly close to the Revolution’s net. Alston’s header went safely out-of-bounds, averting disaster. Alston would go on to become the hero when he scored the game-winner. Seeing as the team is now 2-0-0 when scoring first, it’s important to recognize that the near own goal could have changed the complexion of the game.
Three Things to look for during the Revs v. Fire
- The league’s worst offensive will face one of the worst defenses. The Revs have only collected four goals this year, which makes them the least productive in MLS. Meanwhile, the Fire have allowed ten goals, which puts them equal to four teams and one above Chivas USA and the Portland Timbers. Saturday could be the Revolution’s breakout game as they look to get Bunbury, Sene and Fagundez their first marks of the year.
- Quincy Amarikwa and Mike Magee are becoming a daunting tandem. With three goals and one assist in six appearances, Amarikwa is having a dream season so far. Amarikwa’s success can be partially credited to the relationship he’s developing with Magee. Amarikwa assisted Magee’s lone goal of the year and the reigning MVP has returned the favor. With Amarikwa on a hot streak and Magee being known quality, the Revs will want to be aware of both players.
- Injuries. Kelyn Rowe has missed the last three games with a left hamstring strain, but was upgraded to questionable last week. Hamstring injuries are tricky and require close monitoring to avoid any setbacks. Daigo Kobayashi has filled in nobly for Rowe, but there is no question that the Revs miss the dynamic passes and dangerous shots of the Washington native. The Revs might also be without Goncalves. The backline that played against Houston, which Farrell called “jimmy-rigged,” was outstanding, but can the players replicate the form on the road? With no official word about the status of either player, all eyes will be on Thursday’s injury report.
