D.C. United vs New England Revolution: 3 things we learned – Group C wide open

New England Revolution, D.C. United (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)
New England Revolution, D.C. United (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)
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REUNION, FLORIDA – JULY 17: Gustavo Bou #7 of New England Revolution shoots past Oniel Fisher #91 of D.C. United during the group C match as a part of the MLS Is Back Tournament at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex on July 17, 2020 in Reunion, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)
REUNION, FLORIDA – JULY 17: Gustavo Bou #7 of New England Revolution shoots past Oniel Fisher #91 of D.C. United during the group C match as a part of the MLS Is Back Tournament at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex on July 17, 2020 in Reunion, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)

2. Revs lack efficiency to put away D.C. United

The first half showcased many good things about the New England Revolution. They moved the ball with intent and threatened on occasion. However, after Adam Buksa scored, the attack flatlined and chances suddenly weren’t arising.

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The one-two punch of Carles Gil and Gustavo Bou weren’t at their best and were largely wasteful. They combined for 18 shots, which is a massive number. However, only five of those were on target and they did not test Bill Hamid frequently enough given their control of the match.

Diego Fagundez and Teal Bunbury saw their first minutes of the tournament but the pair didn’t do much. In the end, the result feels fair, but only because New England couldn’t produce more after deservedly taking the lead.

Despite that, the Revs are tied with Toronto FC for the top spot in the group as they lock horns next week. Whether Bruce Arena will rotate for the last group stage game remains to be seen, but he knows his team in with a chance of securing a first-place finish. For now, however, they will lament wasting the chances to put their opponents away.