The New England Revolution is making a statement with a 3-1 win over the New York Red Bulls. In a stunning victory, the team has a comfortable lead over the Philadelphia Union and Orlando City. With two shutouts to their record, excitement is starting to heat up. In this post, we will review three reasons why the Revolution is a serious MLS Cup contender in 2021.
Searching For Consistency
The main objective in 2021 is to find consistency. Consistency in both the defensive department and the offensive department. Goalkeeping wise the tandem of Matt Turner and Brad Knighton remains the best in MLS.
Only eight games in the Revolution are 5-2-1 with 17 points. With two stellar shutouts over Columbus and Cincinnati, the club’s defense has been superior. Scoring still is an area of concern. Forwards Gustavo Bou and Adam Buksa lead the team in scoring. Buska in particular has been putting additional pressure on himself to score more.
Depth On defense
What I like about this year’s squad is the depth. Particularly on defense, the squad is just as deep as anyone in the MLS. Newcomer Christian Mafla signed from Colombia brings speed and excellent coverage skills.
As for the goalkeeping department, the Revolution signed Earl Edwards Jr. as a depth move. Edwards spent the past six seasons with Orlando City. In that period he appeared in six games.
Mafla will be a welcomed addition with a deep defensive group. He should give the goalkeepers added confidence with his experience.
Leagues Best Goalkeeper
Every MLS fan knows that goalkeeper Matt Turner is the game’s best. Coming off his best season in 2020 Turner is over to another amazing year. Last season Turner recorded a league_best six shutouts. After eight games this season, he has already two shutouts. Rumors are swirling that he and Tajon Buchanon may leave to play overseas for the United States National Team.
Conclusion
With a remarkable start, the club needs to stay focused on the long season ahead. With 34 games remaining it will take a total team effort to remain at the top in the MLS East.
