Revolution Designated Players Combine For Picturesque Final Goal Against Orlando City

Bruce Arena isn't a fan of labels

Photo By ©J. Alexander Dolan

The third and final goal of the evening for the New England Revolution was a masterclass put on by the Revs three Designated Players but don’t tell head coach and sporting director Bruce Arena I called them that.

Giacomo Vrioni, Gustavo Bou, and Carles Gil combined for some beautiful soccer that culminated in a goal from New England’s captain. It was his 7th goal of the season and sees him take control of the club’s golden boot race.

Bruce Arena was asked about seeing the three DP’s combine for a goal and he was quick to interject and state that they are simply just players.

“All three players. We don’t look at it that way [as Designated Players],” Arena said. “Those players were involved in the goal. It's a great finish by Carles [Gil] for sure. A good run by Giacomo [Vrioni] to open up a little space for Carles [Gil].”

While Gil has been dominant as he always seems to be, both Bou and Vrioni have had to deal with their own obstacles. Bou has only recently returned from an extended absence due to injury and Vrioni is still adjusting to MLS and trying to find his game.

Seeing those three players combine for a goal should excite Revolution fans and they will be hoping that is a sign of things to come.

Gil met with the media after the match and talked about combining with Bou and Vrioni on the final goal of the evening.

“Unfortunately, Gustavo [Bou] has had some injuries, and Giacomo [Vrioni] is doing better and better now,” New England’s captain said. “I think we scored a very good goal, obviously. Also, Bou is having a very good season and we are trying to make it work.”

While Bou was able to find the back of the net against Orlando City, Vrioni is still searching for a goal of his own. His last came against Sporting Kansas City all the way back in April when he bagged a brace.

Gil mentioned that Vrioni is still a young player when talking about the striker’s quality.

“He’s very good,” the midfielder said. “He’s still young. Obviously he continues to improve game by game and I’m sure that he will score many goals for us.”

That is exactly what Revolution fans hope to see. If Arena can get Vrioni, Bou, and Gil clicking, New England’s attack could be unlocked. While Arena might not dwell on the labels, it is difficult to justify a DP slot on a player who can’t make the starting XI.

But if Vrioni is able to continuously combine with Gil and Bou, Arena will have no choice but to start him. A steady diet of minutes seems to be just what the 24-year-old needs to help find his game.

Seeing these three players put their stamp on the conclusion of the match was a welcome sight and hopefully can be replicated in matches to come.