Philly left it late, but made sure not to need a third game in their Round 1 series Wednesday against New England, winning 1-0 on a Chris Donovan goal in the 79th minute.
The Revolution went down a man in the first half after Mark-Anthony Kaye’s red card for violent conduct in the 45th minute. New England fought valiantly and dictated the game at times in the second half, but couldn’t get a goal or keep the clean sheet.
The Union struggled to dominate despite being up a man. They eventually got the goal from a free kick, delivered by United States youth international Jack McGlynn.
Over two games, Philadelphia outscored New England 4-1.
What awaits Philly
The Union travel to face Supporters’ Shield-winning FC Cincinnati in the single-elimination conference semifinal. Philly eliminated Cincy in the playoffs last season.
Philly won’t be at full-strength.
Star left back Kai Wagner is suspended for another two games, following an investigation for violating the league’s anti-discrimination policy. Forward Julian Carranza missed Wednesday’s game with an injury, while defensive midfielder Jose Martinez exited the win early with an apparent injury. Center back Jakob Glesnes, 2022 MLS Defender of the Year, is out with an injury but hasn’t been ruled out to return at some point later this postseason.
Big offseason ahead for New England
It’s a transformative winter for the Revolution. The club have vacancies at both sporting director and head coach after Bruce Arena resigned.
Star goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic was transferred to Chelsea in the summer and replacement Tomas Vaclik didn’t work out. Forward Gustavo Bou is out of contract and rising midfielder Noel Buck has interest abroad for a potential transfer.
It’ll be busy for the Revs, that’s for sure.
Required reading
(Photo: Brian Fluharty / USA Today)
