The Columbus Crew will host the New England Revolution after two weeks with distinctly different results. The Revolution had their 3-game unbeaten streak broken by Chivas USA in a game full of defensive errors and missed shots. Columbus spent the last two weeks in the Rocky Mountains. Two weeks ago they went into Real Salt Lake and won 2-0, but last week in Colorado they lost 2-0.
Columbus have climbed to the top of the Eastern Conference. They haven’t gotten there with any notable winning streaks or superstars. The Crew’s injury report is 10 players long and includes, Eddie Gaven and Will Hesmer. Robbie Rogers tweeted that his ankle ached and he is not on the list. He did play Wednesday night against Mexico so his health and energy level could be diminished. Will Hesmer is listed as probable and coach Warzycha has confirmed he will start. Gaven will not play and his absence could simplify the game for the Revs. With less creative play lining up for Columbus the defensive job of New England would emphasize maintaining shape.
New England’s game plan will likely remain focused on defensive concentration. AJ Soares return will solidify the back line. I will feel more confident knowing that, if Robbie Rogers isn’t tired and sore but on a roll after scoring against Mexico, AJ will be back there waiting. At the other end of the field we are on the hunt for a goal for our new striker, Milton Caraglio. Benny and Shalrie will patrol the center of the pitch. I wonder who coach Nicol will play on the wings? Last week it was Schilawski and Nyassi sending in crosses or crashing the back post.
There are plenty of developments to watch for in Saturday nights’s game. A win against the conference leaders at home would offer fans hope of a post-season berth. After his penalty kick drawing and goal scoring debut, will Diego Fagundez play more? Neither of these teams has a reputation for flashy plays, but Diego does. I suspect this game will grind back and forth late into the game. It is likely that any goal or goals will come from set pieces for either team. We host the Crew on October 15th. That will be our last home game and both teams will only have one more regular season game. I like our chances this weekend and I look forward to measuring more growth when we meet again later in the season.
(image courtesy of revolutionsoccer.net)
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