Final Whistle: #NERevs Draw to #TFC 1-1
- Updated: May 16, 2015
Photo credit: Chris Aduama/aduamaphotography.com
FOXBOROUGH, Mass – For the second straight game, an early lead evaporated for the Revolution, who were forced to settle for a 1-1 draw to Toronto FC on Saturday at Gillette Stadium.
The hosts grabbed the opening goal when Juan Agudelo headed through a London Woodberry cross in the 32nd minute to give the Revolution the lead going into the break. But Toronto fired back in the 53rd minute when Michael Bradley weaved through the Revolution backline and tucked his shot inside the far post.
Despite leaving points on the pitch once again, the Revolution extended their unbeaten streak to nine (5-0-4). The draw allowed the Reds to get their first result against the Revolution since 2013.
Quick-hit analysis: Leading up to Saturday’s match, the Revolution spoke about closing games out by taking advantage of their opportunities. Well, that proved to be easier said than done on Saturday. After dominating the first half, the locals were only able to muster one goal, which surely gave their guests confidence going into the second half. It only took eight minutes from the second half whistle to seize the moment when Michael Bradley beat three defenders and deposited his shot to level it. Yes, the Revolution were able to extend their unbeaten streak to nine, but no one will deny that their inability to capitalize prevented them from getting maximum points.
Jones exits early: Jermaine Jones was curiously taken out in the 63rd minute for Andy Dorman. Prior to exiting the match, Jones completed 79.1 percent of his passes, and active throughout.
Injury forces Altidore off: Toronto striker Jozy Altidore was forced to come out of the match in the 19th minute after suffering a leg injury. He was replaced by Luke Moore.
PC grad in net for Toronto: For the third straight match, Providence College alumnus Chris Konopka got the start between the sticks for the Reds. Konopka played for the Friars from 2003-2006. He was issued a caution for time-wasting in the 80th minute.
Goncalves returns, Jones back to midfield: Jose Goncalves was back in the lineup for the first time since Apr. 11. The return of the 2013 Defender of the Year allowed Jermaine Jones, who filled in for Goncalves at center back for the last five weeks, to move back into the midfield. Interestingly, Jones was given the captain’s armband over Goncalves, who’s worn it for the bulk of his time in New England.
On to Kansas City: The Revolution return to action on Wednesday to face the Sporting Kansas City for the first time in 2015 at Sporting Park. Kickoff is set for 8:00pm. The Revolution went 3-0-0 against Sporting Kansas City last year.
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