Reis Re-ups With Revs

A day after the Revolution declined the options on seven players, the team opened its wallet for long-tenured goalkeeper Matt Reis by signing him to deal that will keep in Foxboro for his 10th consecutive season. The terms of the deal were not disclosed, per MLS policy.

In 2011, Reis made 27 starts, recorded five shutouts and posted a 1.59 GAA behind a defense that allowed 58 goals (second-highest in MLS). That total would have been higher without the 36-year-old keeper stationed between the sticks. Despite missing seven games of action due to injuries, Reis racked up 111 saves (second most in MLS) and averaged a league-high 4.11 saves per game.

Although he’s missed portions of the past four seasons with a number of knocks, General Manager Michael Burns noted the importance of retaining the cornerstone of a defense that has experienced numerous changes in recent years.

“Matt has been one of our leaders, on and off the field, since coming to New England, and we’re pleased he will remain with us,” Burns said in a statement. “With him re-signing with us, we can continue to look toward his leadership and experience as we move into 2012.”

Reis will enter the 2012 season holding nearly every goalkeeping record in Revolution history, including games in goal (215), goals against average (1.33), wins (80), saves (868), shutouts (55) and saves percentage (.725).

The re-signing of Reis leaves one less question mark hovering over Gillette Stadium as the club attempts to overhaul a squad that finished last in the Eastern Conference. However, a significant one still remains, as skipper Shalrie Joseph’s contract is set to expire later this month.

Prior to the announcement of Reis’ signing, Burns told MLSSoccer.com on Wednesday that he was encouraged by the progress being made with respect to securing Joseph for next season.

“We’re very optimistic that (Reis and Joseph) are going to return and going to be playing for the Revs next year,” Burns said. “We’re working diligently to get that done. We’re hoping to announce something officially here in the near future. They’ve both been longstanding members of the Revs. We’re going to what we can to have them remain in Revolution jerseys next year.”

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