Revolution 3, Earthquakes 1: Positive start to the Mike Lapper Era

The New England Revolution bounced back from a 5-0 midweek loss to the Chicago Fire to beat the San Jose Earthquakes 3-1 just two days after Brad Friedel was fired.

The Mike Lapper Era started positively for the Revolution, who gained the lead in the 18th minute via a Juan Agudelo goal. Cristian Penilla held the ball up before playing an overlapping Edgar Castillo. The left back offered a picturesque cross that Agudelo volleyed past goalkeeper Daniel Vega.

The Revs got a second in the 29th minute after the referee ruled that Harold Cummings fouled Teal Bunbury inside the box. Cummings got a yellow card while Penilla got a goal.

Despite 72% possession and a few solid looks in the early stanza, the Earthquakes entered halftime with a two-goal deficit.

The away side was active after the break, as they used wide areas to create chances. Each cross or cutback was dealt with properly by the Revs, who were dedicated to their defensive block.

Tajon Buchanan brought a spark when he replaced Diego Fagundez in the 66th minute. Although he had difficulty beating his defender the first time, the rookie ultimately was able to find Carles Gil inside the box in the 68th minute. The Revs Designed Player finished the play for his fourth goal of the year.

Chris Wondolowski almost had a goal in the 86th minute, but his backheel attempt was saved by Matt Turner.

The Revs were denied a shutout when Valeri Qazaishvili capitalized on a quick restart in the 88th minute. Danny Hoesen earned the assist.

The Revs will now look forward to Wednesday’s friendly against Chelsea FC.