Revs Report: Midfield consistency key to New England Revolution success
Jul 30, 2014; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Revolution midfielder Scott Caldwell (6) and midfielder Steve Neumann (4) celebrate a goal by midfielder Lee Nguyen (24) during the second half against the Colorado Rapids at Gillette Stadium. New England Revolution defeated the Colorado Rapids 3-0. Mandatory Credit: Stew Milne-USA TODAY Sports
The New England Revolution know what the definition of hard work is, just ask their entire midfield. After 30 games in the 2014 MLS season, the secret, especially after their win on Friday night against Sporting Kansas City, is out, the Revolution midfield is the key to the club’s consistent success.
Just the concept in general may seem like second nature to many long-time soccer fans, a successful midfield game can control the game, but putting the concept into practice is what makes a good team, a great team.
Led by a pair of the most talented and dangerous players in all of Major League Soccer, Lee Nguyen and Jermaine Jones, the Revolution find themselves in second place in the Eastern Conference. Nguyen and Jones continuously supply the other players on the field with perfectly timed passes, cannon shots from distance, and the type of leadership, both on and off the field, most teams can only dream about.
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Rumors already have started about Nguyen deserving a United States National Team call-up, especially about his terrific season, which consists of 13 goals, and five assists. If Jurgen Klinsmann brought in Nguyen to partner with Jones in the midfield that combination could make for a lot of headaches for opposing teams.
Another major factor of the Revolution midfield, is Kelyn Rowe. Similar to Nguyen, USMNT experts believe the Rowe will receive a call-up over the next year. Even after picking-up a nagging injury this season, Rowe came back stronger and faster, thus the main reason he leads the club with five assists. Rowe also has four goals on the season, fewer than originally planned, but still impressive for someone that sat-out for a majority of the season.
New England took a risk on signing former Sporting KC forward, Teal Bunbury during the off-season. Bunbury struggled with injuries and never got a chance to showcase his talents. Fast forward to September, and Bunbury is a major part of the Revolution act. He provides speed on the right wing and brings a forward’s mindset to an outside midfielder’s position, making him even more dangerous. His career is rejuvenated and Bunbury is crucial to New England making a deep post-season run.
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The final piece in the puzzle, that is the Revolution midfield, is Diego Fagundez. A player like Fagundez needs to introduction, especially after his incredible 2013 campaign. Fagundez is not on the same level as he was last season, but still continues to make plays for the Revs. His ability to beat a defender one on one, mixed with his speed and agility, make him an incredibly exciting player to watch every week.
New England’s midfield consistency make them one of the best clubs in Major League Soccer. Opposing clubs must watch out for the powerful and talented players and understand that even if you stop one, there is always someone else popping up to punish you.
The “Revs Report” is Playing For 90’s newest team specific featured column on the New England Revolution. Check out the “Revs Report” for the latest news and opinions about the Revolution from our editor, Baxter Colburn.