New England Revolution vs. Orlando City: Preview and How To Watch

Jul 31, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; New England Revolution forward Kei Kamara (13) jumps over the slide tackle of Orlando City FC defender David Mateos (44) during the second half at Camping World Stadium. Orlando City FC defeats New England Revolution 3-1. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 31, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; New England Revolution forward Kei Kamara (13) jumps over the slide tackle of Orlando City FC defender David Mateos (44) during the second half at Camping World Stadium. Orlando City FC defeats New England Revolution 3-1. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit

The Lions look to stymie the Revolution on the second matchday of the MLS season.

ALERT: The game has been POSTPONED due to inclement weather. Check the NE Revolution’s website for more details.

Orlando City travels into Foxborough fresh off winning the first match in their new grounds. New England, meanwhile, aims to rebound from their 1-0 loss in Denver.

Orlando City arrives without Kaka. It remains to be seen who will slot in for the injured number 10.

What is known is that the team gutted out a fantastic win on Sunday over highly touted NYCFC. Stamina could be an issue, as they looked spent by the 75th minute. Coach Jason Kreis, despite the win, suggested that he needs to see better from his players.

Jonathan Spector looked relentless in his debut at center back. He’s my candidate to assume the captains armband with Kaka out. His fiery demeanor and control of the back line helped pave the way to the win.

Along with the win came the stadiums first goal, provided by Cyle Larin.

The Revolution look to regroup at Gillete Stadium. The team struggled at times during their opener, and at others, passed for an actual soccer team. Lee Nguyen was subbed out for a slight knock early in the second half.

While Juan Agudelo was rendered largely ineffective by the Rapids defense. The Revolution’s attack, as a whole, simply failed to click.

Coach Jay Heaps substitutions weren’t enough to change the result.

Both of these teams are expected to struggle as the MLS season wears on. New England fans thought the team was too quiet over the last transfer window. Besides Orlando’s refreshed back line, they are still extremely reliant upon Kaka and Larin for goals.

With Kaka missing, will Orlando City struggle out the gate?

Will New England be able to find their footing at home?

Next: New Rules for Ref in 2017 MLS

A win this early in the season could set the tone for Orlando City. Alternatively, New England could restart their campaign, should they prove able to defend their turf. Points will be at a premium all season long for both clubs to remain in the playoff hunt.

I’m not sure I can expect New England to pull it together at home, and outrun a tired-looking Orlando squad. Orlando City could surprise, as they just did against NYCFC. The two squads, on paper, seem destined for a draw.

Kickoff is at 2 pm EST.

How to Watch or Listen

TV: New England: CSN / Orlando: WRDQ TV 27 / MLS LIVE

Radio: New England: 98.5 FM / Orlando: 104.1 FM (English)La Granda 1030 AM (Spanish)