Recap: Pierre Cayet’s header powers Revs II to second victory over Fort Lauderdale CF

FOXBOROUGH - Pierre Cayet’s header was the deciding tally in Friday’s USL League One match, helping Revolution II (2-2-1) to a 1-0 victory over Fort Lauderdale CF (3-5-0). The victory marks Revs II’s second win against Fort Lauderdale this season and their second USL League One win in 2021.

Cayet, a center back who signed for Revs II exactly a month ago, nestled a well-directed free-kick from Jake Rozhansky into the bottom left corner in the 17th minute. The goal came only 107 minutes into the French-born defender's USL League One career.

Revs II were tested shortly after their opening goal, with Francois Dulysse conceding a penalty just three minutes after Cayet’s header. Shaan Hundal launched the spot-kick firmly to the right side of the frame, only for Earl Edwards Jr. to acrobatically parry it away.

Late in the first half, two Revs Homegrown players almost combined for a goal, with Damian Rivera chesting the ball down to Justin Rennicks inside the box, who touched inside and launched a strike on frame.

In the second half, both teams managed half-chances. Rennicks was on the receiving end of most opportunities in the final 45 minutes, though the striker couldn’t convert; through five games, Rennicks is still without a goal.

The offensive woes extended to Ryan Sierakowski, Rennicks’ partner-in-crime up top, who hasn’t found the back of the net since the team’s opening game against Fort Lauderdale. Sierakowski, who played 64 minutes on Friday, only touched the ball 21 times, ranking last among the starters in that category.

The defensive unit for Revs II tonight––Sean O’Hearn, Dulysse, Cayet, and Christian Mafla––did concede 12 shots, though few chances truly challenged Edwards Jr.

Revs II made three changes to their starting XI on Friday, with Mafla and Edwards Jr. (first-team players) stepping into the starting lineup, along with Dulysse. Joe Rice, Ryan Spaulding, and Noel Buck were demoted to the bench after starting last week against Chattanooga Red Wolves, with the latter two appearing as substitutes.

Mafla and Edwards both chipped in promising contributions on Friday, specifically in the first half. Edwards’ penalty save enlivened Revs II after the visitors almost drew level, and Columbian-born Mafla gave the Revs II defensive strength––including a physical, well-timed slide tackle midway through the first half––and intermittent attacking punch. The left-back is still working towards full fitness after suffering an injury with the first team.

There was a heightened rhythm to Revs II’s midfield tonight, with Rozhansky and Michel controlling the game’s tempo from the middle of the park. Rozhansky, the team captain, finished second on Revs II in passes (60), and Michel was sharp on the ball, too.

Overall, Friday’s performance was a strong one for Revs II, who were creative in their link-up play and defensively resolute. Clint Peay’s side will carry their momentum to Richmond Kickers next Saturday, June 5, with kick-off scheduled for 6:30 pm.