Revolution v. Real Salt Lake: Three Thoughts

The New England Revolution coasted by Real Salt Lake on Saturday after scoring four first-half goals. What did we learn from the rout? Let’s take a look.

1. Diego Fagundez is making a run at the Team MVP award.

Although his first goal didn’t come until game eleven, Fagundez has looked sharp throughout the 2017 campaign. The crafty midfielder has been dynamic on the left flank with daring dribbles and precious passes. On Saturday, Fagundez even used his left foot to assist fellow Homegrown Scott Caldwell. To me, Juan Agudelo is club’s most important player but Fagundez, Lee Nguyen, and Antonio Delamea all have a chance at being named as Team MVP.

2. We witnessed the value of width.

The return of Chris Tierney to the starting lineup meant that the Revs had a dangerous wide option. The veteran had no problem getting to the touchline and showing off his revered left foot. He would ultimately end the night with two secondary assists, both of which looked quite similar. Kelyn Rowe has been good at left back but he doesn’t offer the same type of width that a left-footed player can provide. Tierney can be that guy but he’s also aging. As a result, the Revs should use the summer transfer window to acquire a more long-term option.

3. I’m honestly not sure how much we can take away from that game.

Saturday’s game felt a lot like the Minnesota one played in March. Sure, the win was sound (and desperately needed) but the opponent was bad. RSL were missing several regulars on Saturday, including Kyle Beckerman, Nick Rimando, and Justen Glad. The team was also kicking off a busy stretch that includes three games in eight days. Momentum is always a positive but I wouldn’t expect the Revs to put up the same numbers when Columbus Crew SC visit on Sunday.