Revolution v. Rapids: Three Thoughts

After a disappointing August, the Revs started September with a bang, recording a 2-0 win over the Colorado Rapids. What did we learn from Saturday's game? Here are a few thoughts.

1. The movement was on point. For the last few weeks, the Revolution attack has looked dire as passes weren't connecting and crosses were missing their marks. On Saturday, things looked different as the team appeared to have found the mojo they had back in 2014. Take the first goal as an example. After a throw-in, there was a series of quick passes before the ball got to Juan Agudelo. The striker made good on the chance to give the Revs a lead. The second goal followed a similar pattern, as the Revs completed a few sharp passes (including a clever backheel) before putting the ball in the back of the net. So, what was different about the Revs attack on Saturday? Perhaps it was playing Kelyn Rowe as an attacking midfielder and Lee Nguyen higher up. It could also have been that Agudelo has found his form. Of course, it might just be that the depleted Rapids were having an off night. Regardless, the Revs need more moments like they had on Saturday if they're going to make the playoffs.

2. Brad Knighton belongs between the pipes. It seems like every year brings a period when Knighton replaces Bobby Shuttleworth as the starting goalkeeper only to lose the spot later. It seemed like this trend would continue this year as Knighton was given a single start in July before Shuttleworth regained the top spot. Knighton would return, however, and has now played four consecutive games. His most recent outing was probably his best, as the North Carolina native made two game-saving stops to secure full points. Cody Cropper might become first-choice someday, but for now, it's all about Knighton.

3. Let's keep things in perspective. There's no doubt about it, Saturday was a big win. The result brought the end of the Revs' six-game winless streak and their 373-minute scoring drought. That said, it was a game that they were expected to win. After all, the Revs were playing at home against a team that was missing Jermaine Jones, Tim Howard, Marco Pappa, and more. This game could be the beginning of a late-season turnaround or an aberration from the norm. Only time will tell.