Matt Polster usually finds Carles Gil, but on Saturday it was the other way around as the New England Revolution defeated the Chicago Fire 1-0.
Polster, playing central midfield, helped circulate the ball before Peyton Miller connected with Carles Gil on the right. The Spaniard worked some magic then played a centering pass to an onrushing Polster.
The game-winning goal came after some lunchtime banter.
"[Gil] was actually giving me a little crap that I haven't given him an assist for a goal," Polster said.
Gil, who clarified that he was joking, had high praise for Polster, saying, "He had an amazing game in the middle."
It's been a different season for the 33-year-old, as he's also logged minutes at right back. His openness to play multiple positions goes a long way in the locker room.
“For him to now go to right back, never even bat an eyelid, and show up and perform week-in and week-out [is great]," Matt Turner said. "He works hard and shows up early to training and leaves late. He’s the professional’s professional.
"He’s a great example for the young guys in our locker room, and he’s still a very good player in this league. I think having him, we’re lucky that he can do so many different things on the pitch. We’re better for having him out there."
Polster, now in his seventh season with the Revolution, has partnered with Brooklyn Raines the past two games. The two have formed a natural partnership, with Raines calling Polster one of his favorite players on the team.
"Anytime I'm in the midfield with him, I know we're going to do the work for each other," Raines said. "I know that he brings a lot of composure and communication."
It's been a busy week for Polster, who played 245 minutes across three games (one at right back, two at central midfield), but the veteran navigated it well, securing victories in back-to-back 90-minute performances.
"He's a humble guy, and he's just ready to go for the next game and the next opportunity, and I really appreciate the work Matt did this week and this whole season so far,” explained assistant coach Michael Morris.
