Soon you’ll be surrounded by friends and family waiting to carve into the turkey. During this time, the inevitable question will be asked, “What are you thankful for?” While you may sprout out something about work or your personal life, let’s be honest – you’re thankful for what the New England Revolution did in 2013. Let’s take a look at ten reasons why Revolution fans should be thankful.
1. The first playoff berth since 2009
The three year hiatus from the postseason was agonizing for Revolution fans but it did help highlight the value of a playoff spot. A six-game unbeaten streak to end the 2013 season allowed the Revs to play soccer in November, an event that was witnessed by 15,164 people at Gillette Stadium. The Revolution’s 1-0 victory at home was overshadowed by a 3-1 loss at Sporting Park. Sure, the Revs would’ve liked elongate their run in the playoffs, but the experience should be viewed as a positive step forward.
2. The resiliency of the team
Between the Boston Marathon bombing and Kevin Alston’s cancer diagnosis, April was a rough month for the Revs. Although difficult, the team refused to be distracted by the off-the-field worries. Matt Reis and Chris Tierney, both directly affected by the bombings, had some of their best performances ever in 2013. Meanwhile, Alston took a three month pause from the Revs to fight cancer. The defender was reactivated on July 15 and made five appearances before the season’s end.
3. Matt Reis
No player epitomizes the Revolution more than Reis. The goalkeeping stalwart came to New England in 2003 and stood between the pipes for three MLS Cup appearances. More than a great player, the veteran has an alluring personality that makes him a favorite in the locker room and in the stands. Reis, who didn’t have his option picked up, must now seriously consider his future after sustaining an injury in the second leg against Sporting KC. Regardless of what happens, we should all be thankful for that this league legend wore Revolution colors.
4. The return of Jose Goncalves
The announcement took longer than many had hoped but it’s officially been revealed that the captain will be back in 2014. Goncalves, who is nominated for Defender of the Year and Newcomer of the Year, was a revelation. Beyond helping the team achieve a club-record 14 shutouts, the Portuguese Man of War scored two game-winning goals. Keeping Goncalves ensures that one of the league’s best defenses will remain intact for another season.
5. The youth movement
The team that once relied on Didier Domi, Ousmane Dabo and Edgaras Jankauskas now relies on Andrew Farrell, Kelyn Rowe and Diego Fagundez. Jay Heaps put a lot of faith in his youngsters and they repaid him fully. Fagundez, recognized as the Revs’ MVP, had seven assists and a team-high 13 goals. Rowe was the team’s best provider as he had eight assists to compliment his seven goals. Juan Agudelo, Scott Caldwell and Farrell also contributed important minutes. The young core, save for Agudelo, will return next year which is certainly something Revs fans should be excited about.
6. The Juan Agudelo trade
Although the Mike Magee-for-Robbie Rogers trade has received the most attention, the Agudelo-for-allocation money could have been more influential. After the May 7 trade, Agudelo became the focal point of the Revolution attack, scoring seven goals and offering one assist. Perhaps the most impressive stat about Agudelo’s tenure with the Revs is that the team went 8-2-4 when the Colombian played. Agudelo was a rental for the Revs and even though his move to Stoke City was recently rejected it’s unlikely that he will return to New England. Still, Revolution fans should be thankful for the Colombian Swag that Agudelo brought to Gillette Stadium.
7. The rise of competition
More than just a slogan, competition has become an important element for the Revs since Heaps became head coach. Competition allowed Caldwell to rise above Kalifa Cisse, Clyde Simms and Andy Dorman. It also led to the improvement of both AJ Soares and Stephen McCarthy. Those who didn’t buy into the idea of competition, like Jerry Bengtson, saw their playing time decrease. The rise of competition inspired development and created a great team atmosphere.
8. The evolution of Heaps
In his second campaign as head coach, Heaps showed immense growth. The former player was successful in the transfer market, better at creating game plans and smarter when it came to subbing. The numbers speak for themselves. The Revs went 9-17-8 (35 points) during Heaps’ first year, scored 39 goals and allowed 44 goals. This year, the team went 14-11-9 (51 points), scored 49 goals and allowed 38 goals. Heaps isn’t done evolving but we should be grateful that one of our own is showing growth.
9. The front office is scouting
Minimized by Friday’s roster moves was the fact that Heaps and Mike Burns are on an international scouting mission. Finishing 3rd in the Eastern Conference made 2013 a successful year but that doesn’t mean there isn’t work to be done. Regardless of where Grant Wahl puts the Revs on his “Ambition Rankings,” I firmly believe that this front office is dedicated to putting together an aggressive and intimidating team.
10. January 25 is just around the corner
The last few weeks have felt empty without the Revs, but we should remember that the MLS offseason is a short one. The MLS Cup will emulate from Sporting Park on December 7 with the Re-Entry Draft and SuperDraft following soon after. Before we know it, the Revs will be back at Gillette Stadium getting ready for 2014. Mark the calendars because January 25 will be here before you know it and that’s something to be thankful for.
(image courtesy of Kari Heistad)
