Revolution in must-win against RSL

By: Sabin | June 2nd, 2007

The New England Revolution need to win tonight if they want to hold on to their tied-for-first position in the Eastern Division. New York (first place on goals) and Kansas City (just one point out of second place) play tonight. Even a draw will push the Red Bulls into first place. A loss by the Revs could push them to third place if Kansas City win.

While on paper that task may seem like an easy one given tonight’s match-up — RSL has yet to record a win and are two players short of a full roster –, nothing is guaranteed, especially given the Revs tendency to not pass the ball very well. Additionally, in the last meeting at Gillette Stadium the Revs lost 3-1. That said, the Revs seem to quasi-immune to history this season, and are in fairly good form as far as goal-scoring goes.

Look for Alecko Eskandarian in the line-up for RSL. While at the season’s first game against Toronto FC, he and Matt Reis seemed to not harbor any resentment and whatnot, Eskandarian is teamed up with former D.C. United teammate Freddy Adu, so who knows what deep-seated weirdness might arise.

Steve Ralston could claim all-time assists leader tonight. He’s just two shy of the all-time record, and one shy of tying his former Tampa Bay Mutiny teammate Carlos Valderrama. Meanwhile, Taylor Twellman will be looking to expand his goals-scored record.

Michael Parkhurst, Ralston, and Twellman will make their final appearance for the Revs before joining the United States Men’s Team for the CONCACAF Gold Cup later this week. Look for the three of them to play the best game they can (what we’ll end up doing without them is beyond me, but that’s for another write-up).

As far as starting up front, it looks as though coach Steve Nicol has a decision to make regarding whether to start Pat Noonan or Adam Cristman (HERE). This is a tough one to call. Noonan’s fitness is not what it should be at this point in the season, and Cristman is pushing to be the first-to-call in the forward position. The game notes show Noonan, but those are about as reliable as the weather in New England. We’ll just have to wait and see.

Shalrie Joseph is listed as questionable, but will want to play. It remains to be seen if Nicol will play him tonight (the article above mentions that as well).

Wells Thompson and Cristman will be looking to solidify their performances as subs in order to be considered for larger roles during the CONCACAF competitions. Thompson scored last week and Cristman got an assist

And for a final bit of reading fun, take a peek at Brad Feldman’s write up over at revolutionsoccer.net. One of the more colorful commentators in MLS, his write-ups are always good for another perspective.

My prediction? New England should win this one 3 - 1.