MLS 2010 Preview: New England Revolution
Thursday, 25 March 10, 12:15 PM · Comments (1)
Steve Nicol is staring at what could be his most difficult season yet.
Matt Reis and Taylor Twellman are both sitting on the shelf with injuries, and neither have looked any closer to getting back on. Reis underwent surgery during the offseason and is currently on the mend, while Twellman remains on the sidelines with concussion problems.
Injuries aside, Nicol's MLS track record gives every reason to believe that New England will put up quite a substantial fight. And if the young players step into the shoes of the missing veterans, the Revolution may pop up again in the playoffs.
Impact Players
It starts and stops with Shalrie Joseph in the midfielder. The stalwart kept New England together last year, even popping up as a striker and scoring important goals. He's the one player Nicol can't afford to lose in 2010 -- it could possibly cripple the club, especially after losing Jeff Larentowicz and Steve Ralston this offseason.
Darrius Barnes and Kevin Alston were huge last year. Both rookies played in every game in 2009, providing a solid defensive foundation at the back. Bringing that form into 2010 is crucial, as Nicol needs as few additional headaches as possible.
A lot of fuss is being made about rookie Zack Schilawski. The Wake Forest product could be called upon early in the season, especially with Twellman mired on the sidelines. If he steps in and scores goals, a lot of people in New England will be happy.
Big Question
Is Taylor Twellman finished?
The health and status of Twellman is an important part of this season. Last year, New England fared alright without him, and there's no reason to believe that they can't do it again. Head injuries can't be rushed, and it wouldn't be surprising to know Nicol is planning for an entire season with the ex-Terrapin.
2010 Outlook
Never count New England out. As long as Nicol remains at the helm, he'll steady the ship. That being said, starting a season with two major players out is never an easy thing to cope with. If Twellman comes back New England could be a legitimate title threat -- if not, they'll either be a one and done team or miss out altogether.
Like this blog? Help spread the word: 
Posted by travismclark
| Comments (1)
-
blag said:Looking at the second half you can definitely see Houston can eventually get ba...
On MLS Thursday Night: Houston remain a work in progress, Chivas-Los Angeles duke it out in Carson
Nan said:Yes, we'll miss Jeff, but the other RED, Pat Phelan, will step up to the plate ...
-
travismclark
US
All things U.S. Soccer: from the national team to MLS
1 Comments · Add yours
Yes, we'll miss Jeff, but the other RED, Pat Phelan, will step up to the plate and then some.
I've been following Zack Schilawski through his college years and he is a really exciting player to watch. If he can make the big jump to the pro level, we'll be golden.
What I've always loved best about the Rev's is their "never give up, never surrender" attitude.
GO REVS!