New England Revolution vs. DC United: Preview and How to Watch

Apr 8, 2017; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Revolution goalkeeper Cody Cropper (1) kicks the ball during the first half against the Houston Dynamo at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 8, 2017; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Revolution goalkeeper Cody Cropper (1) kicks the ball during the first half against the Houston Dynamo at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports /
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An Eastern Conference battle between two clubs near the bottom of the table will feature the New England Revolution and DC United.

The New England Revolution and DC United look to get back on track as they currently sit side-by-side in the table. Both sides had good runs of form at the start of the month but have faltered since.

New England Revolution

  • Current Record: (W-L-D) 4-2-1
  • Last Match Result: 0-0 draw against San Jose Earthquakes
  • Player to Watch For: Cody Cropper. The Revs’ goalkeeper has recorded two clean sheets thus far and has been a strong presence in net. They will need him to make some big saves–most likely–in a match that should be closely contested.
  • Why They Win: At home, the Revs are undefeated, which will be a record they will try to hold onto as long possible as their away form has been less than stellar. If the Revs offense can find a spark early then they should set themselves up for victory.
  • Why They Don’t: Stamina. The Revs are coming off of a short rest after hosting the San Jose Earthquakes during the week. Thus, DC United could exploit the defense if they are able to find space and take advantage of any breaks.

DC United

  • Current Record: (W-L-D) 2-3-1
  • Last Time Out: Loss 2-0 to New York Red Bulls
  • Player to Watch For: Luciano Acosta. The Argentine midfielder is a key part of the DC United attack and has scored in two of his four appearances this season. If he can spark the offense then DC will be in business, if not then they may falter going forward.
  • Why They Win: DC United have defeated the Revs in four of their last five meetings. On paper, this should be a close match and a goal may need to come out of nothing in order for one of the two sides to claim victory. An early goal could also set the club up well since they have the better defense coming into Saturday.
  • Why They Won’t: If the Revs offense can get going then they will certainly be the favorites to win. DC United will need to stay resolute on defense as the Revs have multiple play makers who can find the back of the net quite easily when they on their game. Winning on the road in the MLS is tough, and that has proven true at Gillette Stadium so far.

Next: MLS Power Rankings: Week 7

How to Watch

When: Saturday, April 22, 7:30 PM EST (4:30 PST)
Where: Gillette Stadium
How to Watch: NewsChannel 8, CSN, MLS Live