Through the first 12 games of the 2017 MLS season, the New England Revolution have amassed four wins, four draws and four losses. They are currently treading water at eighth place in the Eastern Conference with just over a third of the season gone. However, they are just one point below their next opponent the New York Red Bulls. They made up ground in the standings as a result of a 2-1 win over Columbus Crew SC last Sunday. New York is currently in sixth place and occupies the last playoff spot. The Revs will travel to Red Bulls Arena on Saturday, looking to continue their recent good form.
New England Revolution at New York Red Bulls Preview
Go, Diego, Go!
I mentioned the good form New England has enjoyed in the past few games. Diego Fagundez is one man in particular who exemplifies that form. The 22-year-old Uruguayan is finally playing up to his abilities again and has picked up three goals and one assist over the last two games. Fagundez is now in his sixth year in the league and Revs fans have always been anxious for him to take that next step. If his recent play is any indication, he has taken on that challenge.
Dismal Away Form
If New England manages to pick up three points at Red Bull Arena on Saturday, it will be their first away win of the season. So far, they have played six away games and have only come up with two points from a possible 18. Additionally, they have scored five goals on the road compared to a whopping 15 at home. On the defensive end, they have conceded 12 goals on the road and just five at home. Ultimately, the Revs defense will need to limit opportunities for Red Bulls poacher Bradley Wright-Phillips if they are to take maximum points on Saturday. New England has never won at Red Bull Arena; they have one tie and seven losses in eight visits.
Injuries/Suspensions/International Duty
After missing the last two games with an arm injury, Juan Agudelo is available for selection again. Aguelo played for the Red Bulls for two years, so there is no doubt he will be fired up. Agudelo has enjoyed a pretty good start to the season, having scored six goals in ten games. Head coach Jay Heaps has everyone at his discretion. For his opposite number Jesse Marsch, defender Aurelien Collin is questionable with an abdominal strain, while Gideon Baah is out for the season with a broken leg. The Red Bulls will also be missing Tyler Adams who is with the US Under-20s for the World Cup at that age level in South Korea.
Game Facts
Kickoff: 7:30 PM ET
TV: MSG, CSN-NE, MLS LIVE
Current Form: Red Bulls W-W-W-L-L-L; Revolution L-D-D-D-L-W
All-time series: New England leads 29-24-15 but have an 8-19-8 record on the road.
