New England Soccer Today

Revs U-23s Open on Winning Note

Photo credit: Kari Heistad/capturedimages.biz

Photo credit: Kari Heistad/capturedimages.biz

It was an eventful debut, to say the least, for the New England Revolution Under-23 squad just outside of Boston on Friday.

The newly-formed squad overcame an early deficit, a missed penalty, and an ejection to beat NPSL side Boston City FC 2-1 in a club friendly at Malden Catholic High School in Malden, Mass.

Jhonata Batista put Boston on top inside of a minute while City keeper Victor Scariot stopped Felix Ocbona’s shot from the spot saved in the 24th minute. Things went from bad to worse for the Revolution in the 49th minute when Johnny Gonzalez earned his second caution and subsequent dismissal to leave the guests shorthanded for nearly the entire second half.

But even with 10 men, New England somehow found a way to equalize in the 52nd minute on a Chris Arling strike. Not long after, Christian Sady struck from the spot in the 75th minute to give the guests the win.

The Revolution organization announced the formation of its U-23 side last week. The squad, which features a number of the club’s former Youth Academy players, is set to play a slate of friendlies this summer.

“This team will provide players who aim to reach the highest levels of soccer the opportunity for meaningful competition during the summer months,” said Revolution Director of Youth Development Bryan Scales in a team release last week. “It’s a great opportunity to further develop Academy alumni and other top players and should serve as a platform for integration into the club’s first team.”

The Revolution’s next match has not yet been announced. Boston will return to league action Sunday at Kingston Stockade FC in Kingston, N.Y.

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