Revolution v. Toronto FC: Three Takeaways

The New England Revolution are now unbeaten in three after defeating Toronto FC 3-1 on Saturday. It was a night where Charlie Davies had two goals and Jermaine Jones returned to the field. So what can we takeaway? We have some thoughts:

1. Toronto imploded. Despite being winless in their last five games against the Revolution, Toronto held their own during the early stanza. The visitors were cautious in their approach, using the counter to create opportunities. It’s not a particularly pretty tactic, but it can be effective. Then things began to unravel. First Jozy Altidore was justifiably sent off for kicking out at Jose Goncalves. Soon after the Revs were awarded a penalty. It was a disaster end to the first half, something that could only happen to a team that has never made the playoffs in their seven years of existence.

2. It’s all just a little bit of history repeated. Last year Jermaine Jones debuted for the Revs against Toronto FC. This year his re-debut came against Toronto. Both incidences were overwhelming victories in favor of the Revs. With ten games left in the regular season, the Revs will hope that this trend will lead them to another appearance in the MLS Cup Final. It’s not a crazy thought as the team certainly has a talented roster. They just need to be sure that everyone is playing at their highest level.

3. Speaking of which, Charlie Davies, Lee Nguyen, and Kelyn Rowe are heating up. With nine goals this season, Davies has quietly had himself a solid 2015. The memories of a striker abroad that can't score have been replaced by dreams that Davies will one day suit up for the US national team again. Nguyen’s hot streak is a bit more recent as the midfielder has scored in three straight games. Likewise, Rowe has contributed a goal and an assist in his last two outings. He also drew a penalty in the TFC game. Jones' return is huge, no doubt, but it takes more than one player to win a trophy.