Bruce Arena encouraged by Adam Buksa’s performance against Toronto FC

Wednesday was a night of opportunity for the New England Revolution. They had a chance to beat one of the best team’s in the Eastern Conference and it was also a chance for Adam Buksa to try and earn a spot in the starting XI.

Gustavo Bou was forced to miss the game due to a “minor injury.” This allowed Buksa to get a full 90 minutes to show what he is capable of.

This was Buksa’s first start since early September. He has just started to get back into the swing of things scoring his first goal against DC United two games ago.

The Revolution were unable to secure the victory losing to Toronto FC 1-0. New England failed to convert on chances including a missed penalty at the 69th minute taken by one Buksa.

But after the game, Bruce Arena said that he was encouraged by the Polish striker’s performance.

Arena said, “He did okay. If he converted the penalty, he would’ve done real well tonight. But he played hard. He had a couple of chances. It was an improved performance from the last time we saw him in a start, so that part was encouraging.”

While a lot of the focus will be on the missed penalty, Buksa did perform rather well. He had some opportunities in the final third and led the team in total shots with four. Also in general he appeared to have better chemistry with his teammates and was solid up top.

If Bou is unable to start again on Sunday (Bruce Arena said he should be available next week), Buksa would get another opportunity to prove his worth.

Hopefully, then he will be more successful converting in front of the net.