New England Revolution 2 - Atlanta United 1: 3 Thoughts

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Photo By J. Alexander Dolan

The New England Revolution returned to the pitch on Wednesday evening and secured three points with a 2-1 win over Atlanta United.

While Carles Gil remained out, Dylan Borrero made his return to the starting XI. Dave Romney was also replaced by Henry Kessler.

Esmir Bajraktarevic and Ian Harkes also maintained their spots in the starting XI. Up top, Giacomo Vrioni remained the lone striker up top while Aljaz Ivacic was New England’s goalkeeper.

But what do you need to know about Wednesday’s match? Here are three thoughts.

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1 - The Vrioni Conundrum

Whether it be in the upcoming transfer window or at the end of the season, fans are wondering if the New England Revolution will move on from Giacomo Vrioni. As of late, the striker has been finding his form and making it harder to move on from the designated player.

Vrioni found the back of the net after struggling on Saturday against the Columbus Crew. His goal against Atlanta was a work of art as he nutmegged a defender on his way to goal number six of the season.

While the pass from DeJuan Jones was beautiful, Vrioni carved out a goalscoring chance for himself with his movement. It’s exactly what you want to see from your No. 9.

Vrioni wasn’t done though. He scored a beautiful goal prior to first-half stoppage time with his flying kick connecting with a beautiful cross from Buck.

But that is the problem for the Revs.

Vrioni’s performances are only increasing his value but he is also seemingly growing more consistent. If the striker can continue to score goals at his current pace, he would be a quality DP striker.

Still, the clock always seems to strike midnight with Vrioni. He gets on a bit of a hot streak and then can’t hit the broad side of a barn.

Good strikers score goals. If Vrioni continues to, he deserves a spot on the roster.

2 - Noel Buck’s Beautiful Ball

While Vrioni’s finish was amazing, so was the ball from Buck. It was perfectly weighted and in just the right position for only Vrioni to make contact.

Buck has played quite well as of late. Whether it be his banger goal or superb passing, the youngster has staked his claim for a starting role.

While Mark-Anthony Kaye might offer a veteran presence, Buck offers more skill and the ability to make magic in the blink of an eye.

The 19-year-old is still prone to making mistakes whether it be a poor passing decision or an ill-timed tackle, but these issues are ironed out with maturity and more playing time.

While some squad rotation is to be expected with a match against Seattle Sounders on the horizon, hopefully Buck can maintain his spot in the starting XI in the future and through Leagues Cup.

3 - Borrero’s Body Language

I am not a body-language expert but it was clear that Borrero wasn’t happy with himself or his teammates. Still, his outward expression of disappointment and frustration can not be accepted.

While Borrero might be affected by returning from injury, some of his lackadaisical efforts were unacceptable. Outside of his poor behavior, he just couldn’t piece a total project together. He might have a good run forward but then his pass would be wayward.

Borrero’s final play was him failing to go full out to reach a ball trailing in front of him and he effectively took himself out of the game as he walked off the pitch and to the bench as he was replaced by Andrew Farrell.

After suffering such an intense injury, it is hard to expect Borrero to immediately return to top form but he is performing well below expectations. He needs to be a better player and a better teammate.