Taylor Debuts Late in Win Over Goats

Photo credit: Chris Aduama/aduamaphotography.com

FOXBORO, Mass. – Less than a week after being acquired by his new club, Tony Taylor made his MLS and Revolution debut on Saturday night in New England’s 1-0 win over Chivas USA.

Taylor, a former U-23 and U-20 product for the U.S. National Team, was acquired through an MLS lottery last Monday. Only two teams – New England and Portland – participated in the weighted lottery with New England holding a 71.4% chance to earn the services of the attacker.

“I was in Portugal for four or five years,” Taylor said after the game. “I’m happy to be back in the states, happy to be home. It feels great.”

The 25-year-old made his debut in the 81st minute, coming on as a substitute for Charlie Davies. Although head coach Jay Heaps said earlier in the week that he saw him as a wider forward or a second striker, Taylor debuted as a lone striker in the middle of the field for New England. He completed all three passes he attempted in his 10-plus minutes of work and had a total of five touches on the ball.

Asked whether or not he expected to play so soon after joining the team, Taylor said, “I was happy, I was prepared for it. I’m just happy to get on the field and help my team, glad we got the win.”

As for expectations, Taylor said he’s going to put his head down and work and give what he can for the best of the team.

“I try to use my speed, mobility and my strength and take players on and dish it off,” Taylor said of his style. “Try to get some goals and assists and try and help the team anyway I can, high pressure on defenses. I’m glad we got the win tonight.”

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