Revolution 2, NYCFC 0: Playoffs here we come

The New England Revolution have secured a playoff spot after beating New York City FC 2-0 on Sunday night.

The action was back and forth during the game’s opening stanza. A moment of chaos occurred in the 11th minute as NYCFC had multiple chances inside the penalty box. Matt Turner and his defenders stood strong before Alexandru Mitrita skied his shot over the net.

Meanwhile, the Revs were finding success lofting balls over New York’s back line. Teal Bunbury got on the end of a few of them but couldn’t convert. His shot in the 22nd minute forced a save from Sean Johnson.

The open play continued through the first half. Despite this, the game was even at zeros at halftime.

NYCFC nearly broke the deadlock in the 54th minute when Gary Mackay-Steven made a long-distance bid. Turner was there to make an outstretched save and the Revs ultimately cleared the danger. In fact, they nearly scored on a counter if not for a New York defender beating out Bunbury.

Mitrita’s free kick in the 62nd minute looked destined for the goal if not for Turner. The chance highlighted Mitrita’s skill as it was taken from a tight angle.

After all that, it was the Revs who struck first. Capitalizing on a counter, the home team was able to play a sharp series of passes before Bunbury put the ball past Johnson.

The Revs almost got a second in the 71st minute via Wilfried Zahibo. The defensive midfielder got on the end of Gil’s free kick but couldn’t direct it into the back of the net.

Turner made a big save in the 85th minute, keeping the scoreline in his favor. Five minutes later, Gustavo Bou secured the win by hitting an opportunistic chip that ensured the Revs will play post-season soccer in 2019.

Before that, the Revs will visit Atlanta United FC on Sunday for their final match of the regular season.