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NE Revs: Early Impressions of the New England Revolution seem promising

By Daniel Shulman

FOXBOROUGH, MA - NOVEMBER 13: MLS's New England Revolution new head coach Brad Friedel is photographed in the locker room, after being introduced at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Mass., on Nov. 13, 2017. (Photo by Pat Greenhouse/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)
FOXBOROUGH, MA - NOVEMBER 13: MLS's New England Revolution new head coach Brad Friedel is photographed in the locker room, after being introduced at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Mass., on Nov. 13, 2017. (Photo by Pat Greenhouse/The Boston Globe via Getty Images) /
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New England has retooled this offseason under new coach Brad Friedel as positive changes have already started appearing after just one preseason game.

The New England Revolution opened preseason Wednesday morning with a 4-3 victory over the New York Red Bulls. The scrimmage at IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida wasn’t streamed, but highlights indicate it was a strong offensive showing by the Revs.

With a new, reinvigorated squad under a head coach described as “professional” by his entire team, there’s reason for early optimism in New England. Based on some early observations, the Revs could be one of the surprise teams of the year in MLS.

New Additions Shine

The most-hyped new addition to the Revs roster this offseason was midfielder Cristian Penilla. On loan from Pachuca, the Ecuadorian midfielder has been somewhat of a journeyman in his young career. His addition to the New England team seems perfect so far. A fast, sparky player, Penilla scored a wonder-strike in the game against New York. And apparently, that wasn’t the first time he scored a goal like that in preseason camp.

Trialist and MLS-veteran Jalil Anibaba has also been a promising addition to Revs camp. The defender fits Friedel’s system well and has had some shining moments so far in camp. The Revs are in need of depth at center-back, and signing Anibaba makes perfect sense. Anibaba, who can also play on the right side, is the perfect veteran presence for players like Brandon Bye and Nicolas Samayoa to develop with.

Gabriel Somi also made his first appearance for New England this preseason, showcasing his flashiness and speed from a defensive posture. Though he is not yet at 100%, signs of what he can bring are evident. Somi is exactly the kind of left back New England has been looking for — pacey, anticipatory, and willing to jump into the attack.

PACHUCA, MEXICO – MAY 21: Cristian Penilla of Pachuca gestures during a semifinal first leg match between Pachuca and Queretaro as part of Clausura 2015 Liga MX at Hidalgo Stadium on May 21, 2015 in Pachuca, Mexico. (Photo by Miguel Tovar/LatinContent/Getty Images)
PACHUCA, MEXICO – MAY 21: Cristian Penilla of Pachuca gestures during a semifinal first leg match between Pachuca and Queretaro as part of Clausura 2015 Liga MX at Hidalgo Stadium on May 21, 2015 in Pachuca, Mexico. (Photo by Miguel Tovar/LatinContent/Getty Images) /

Defensive Woes

Some discouraging signs also came through on Wednesday, especially New England’s struggle to defend set pieces. New York scored twice from free kicks in the game. However, these issues can be ironed out before the season as it is still very early in camp.

With Friedel adding several strong, fast, and tall defensive options, defending free kicks shouldn’t be a problem.

Professionalism

Harping back on some remarks of players throughout camp, Friedel has conducted himself and his team in a professional manner. This speaks volumes about the tenure and demise of Jay Heaps’ coaching career with the Revs.

Friedel has implemented stricter rules on and off the field. His persistence and demanding style allow his players to make the most of every opportunity they get. Unlike under Heaps, this Revs team is willing to put in a complete effort with Friedel as coach.

Next: Red Bulls Sign Marc Rzatkowski from RB Salzburg

Even though the Revs have played just one game since camped opened up two weeks ago, you can feel a different air about the team. Change has come to New England and the Revolution are poised to show that for the better in 2018.

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