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Know The Enemy: New England Revolution

Know The Enemy Revolution

Who are they?
New England Revolution. Owned by Robert Kraft of the New England Patriots, the Revs have been in the MLS since it’s inception.


Designated Players...
Just Jermaine Jones. Although, you could make an argument that Lee Nguyen deserves the status.


That logo though…
The Revs are probably the team most in need of a rebrand. But that’s all the shade we will be throwing this week.  


What have they won?
The Rev’s have appeared in the MLS Cup Final five times without bringing home the silverware, most recently last year. They do have a US Open Cup title to their name, however, and a (now defunct) North American SuperLiga title.


What about the Disney Pro Soccer Classic.
They must not be a fan of niche pre season Florida tournaments because they have never competed.


Last year...
The Revs started poorly but produced a fantastic second half of the campaign, spurred in part by Lee Nguyen having a stellar season (18 goals from midfield) and the addition of U.S. international Jermaine Jones in August. The run saw them pick up nine wins in their final 13 games and storm to second place the Eastern Conference. The Revs ended up advancing all the way to the MLS Cup Final, but fell to the LA Galaxy in extra time.


Are they any good?
Short answer - yes. They’ve managed to keep the majority of their squad intact over the off season, and also added Juan Agudelo up front who gives them some extra firepower. It would be a bold man who bets against them finishing near the top of the table at the end of the season.


So far this year...
They’ve been equally impressive. After losing the first two games of the season, the Revs have gone seven games unbeaten, winning five. They look confident, and Charlie Davies has scored in each of the last three.


Match Preview: Orlando City to Host Reigning Eastern Conference Champions New England Revolution


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Players to Watch?
Despite having the big three of Jones, Agudelo and Nguyen, we’re opting for Charlie Davies. The American striker has bagged three goals in his last three games playing as a lone striker,  so he’s the man on form.


Who’s the boss?
Jay Heaps. The former Revs player has been in place since 2011, and has experienced each one of the club’s five MLS Cup Finals - four as a player. It was his miss during the penalty shootout in 2006 that cost the Revs the title, and he is said to be desperate to finally bring home the silverware.


What about their supporters?
The Midnight Riders and Rebellion occupy their supporter section, aptly named the Fort. The Revs play at the gigantic 68,000 seater Gilette Stadium, so they aren’t selling out. Their average attendance rose last season to 16,681.  


Who are their rivals?
Probably the Red Bulls, given the proximity and the history of the Boston-New York sporting rivalries. Up until last year though, the Revs had a 20 game unbeaten streak in their own back yard against the Red Bulls.