Philadelphia Union Vs New England Revolution: 3 things we learned – Union come through

Philadelphia Union (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images)
Philadelphia Union (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images) /
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REUNION, FLORIDA – JULY 25: Tajon Buchanan #17 of New England Revolution reacts after missing goal attempt in the first half of their game against Philadelphia Union during the knockout round of the MLS is Back Tournament at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex on July 25, 2020 in Reunion, Florida. (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images)
REUNION, FLORIDA – JULY 25: Tajon Buchanan #17 of New England Revolution reacts after missing goal attempt in the first half of their game against Philadelphia Union during the knockout round of the MLS is Back Tournament at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex on July 25, 2020 in Reunion, Florida. (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images) /

2. New England should hold their heads high

Bruce Arena won’t make any excuses for his team’s elimination. But the New England Revolution will have to ponder what would have been had Carles Gil been in the lineup.

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Gil was instrumental in the opening match of the MLS is Back Tournament. He created an astounding 12 chances and was central to every New England attacking. His inclusion could have swung the momentum in his team’s favor. New England missed his creativity and dynamism.

But all is not lost with this team, a team that can contend for the top seed in the Eastern Conference. Their defense remains resolute as they only conceded one goal, while the attack can still create and cause headaches. Tonight just wasn’t the Revs’ night, but it was far from a disastrous defeat.

Where they need to grow is in midfield. The team could do with more control in midfield, especially when shielding the defense and providing progressive passes from deep. Nevertheless, the Revolution will be upset to head home, but they will realize they aren’t far behind the elite of the East. Moving forward, with Gil involved, this team can challenge for MLS Cup.