New England Revolution: Why they can win Group C

After the first round of matches in the MLS is Back tournament, based on their performance, the New England Revolution can win Group C. Here is why.

When the MLS is Back Tournament started, the hopes for the New England Revolution weren’t that high. There was a tentative belief that they could be competitive, potentially finishing second in Group C, but ideas of being a leading team were few and far between.

However, after the first round of matches, it now seems as though the Revolution could win the entire group.

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First off, they showed in their first game that they shouldn’t be disrespected. The attack of Gustavo Bou, Adam Buska, and Carles Gil is one of the best in the league and should strike fear into opposing defenses. In their victory over the Montreal Impact, for the first time in franchise history, the Revs had three designated players on the field at the same time.

They also got excellent performances in other areas, too. Goalkeeper Matt Turner was superb, while Alexander Buttner had a sensational debut. The left-back was comfortable on the ball, progressing play and creating chances. Defensively, he was sound throughout. Moreover, having him start allows for DeJuan Jones to enter the game as a sub and insert a ton of pace late into games.

Similarly, Gil looked like he hadn’t missed a beat. In just one game, he jumped to the top of the MLS leaderboard in chances created with 12. That he created so many chances in one match is outrageous.

Beyond just the performance, though, the New England Revolution now have a leg up on the competition in the standings. Their greatest challenger lost an opportunity to get three points on Monday. Even with a man advantage, Toronto FC failed to gain three points against D.C. United. This gives New England a great chance to hop out in front. A win against D.C. will put them into an almost unassailable position.

Historically the Revolution have struggled against D.C. United. They have won one out of their last 11 games. But D.C. will be shorthanded.  Junior Moreno, who was sent off against Toronto, will miss the match through suspension, while their overall performance in the first hour of play was extremely poor. The New England Revolution are the superior team.

As such, then, behind the great play of Bou, Gil, and many others, the New England Revolution will have a great chance to win on Friday. And if they do that, Group C is in their hands. Bruce Arena’s team is here to play.