Revolution 4 - FC Cincinnati 1: 3 thoughts

FC Cincinnati traveled to Gillette Stadium looking to change their fortune as they struggled once again in 2021. The New England Revolution weren't going to let that happen.

New England was looking to extend their winning streak to nine games and continue an impressive winning streak even without Carles Gil who is still over in Spain.

Here’s how New England lined up to start the game.

Ema Boateng, Scott Caldwell, and Christian Mafla found their way into the starting XI as Wilfrid Kaptoum were relegated to the bench. Also, Brandon Bye was held out of the matchday lineup for the second straight game with DeJuan Jones being shifted to the right side.

So what do you need to know about Saturday’s win? Here are three thoughts.

1 - Boateng continues to ball out

Ema Boateng got his first start of the 2021 season and he didn’t waste time making an impact.

The MLS veteran continued to show off his pace and was causing problems for his opponents. Once again he played a major role in the first goal and he wasn’t done there. Soon after he would score the first goal of his New England Revolution career thanks to some beautiful play by Adam Buksa and Tajon Buchanan.

But wait, there’s more. Boateng would also assist on Buksa’s goal that gave New England a 3-0 lead.

At this point, Boateng could even be a starter when the Revs are 100 percent healthy. He continues to play well and Bruce Arena should play him over someone like Arnor Traustason. With a goal and three assists this season in a short amount

On Saturday, Boateng was the man of the match. He truly was doing it all against Cincy.

2 - Like skyline chili, Cincy sucks

It might surprise fans to learn this, but FC Cincinnati is in fact not good at soccer. While the attack was able to generate some chances but none were truly dangerous.

At halftime, Bruce Arena said that Cincy might have tired legs, but he might have just been unusually kind. Cincy looked flat footed and like a team that didn’t care. They were constantly playing the ball out of bounds and looked like they didn’t even belong in MLS.

Cincy’s backline performed particularly poorly with Geoff Cameron doing a hockey goon impression and trying to rough up the Revolution. Buchanan seemed fed up with it and gave him a bump causing a little scuffle to occur.

The Revolution deserve credit for the win and dominating their opponent, but Cincy might be one of the worst teams in all of MLS.

3 - DP duo dominates

Without Carles Gil, Gustavo Bou and Adam Buksa had some added pressure. It’s safe to say that they answered the call.

Buksa snagged two goals to bring his goal total to double digits and Bou continued his quality unselfish play and assisted on Buksa’s second goal of the night.

Bou has become a much more complete player whether that be tracking back or being more unselfish. It truly has been great to watch.

Buksa has been quieting the haters after a difficult 2020 season and seems to be establishing some great chemistry with Bou.

Saturday was a fun night for Revs fans and while it’s unlikely, they will be hoping for more exciting victories from the club.