Revs II 3 (4) - NYCFC II 3 (3): Three Thoughts
Revolution II shake a two-game skid with a comeback draw and shootout victory!
Revolution II snapped their two-game skid on Sunday when they fought back to secure two points with a 3-3 draw and 4-3 shootout victory over New York City FC II. Here are three thoughts.
1 - True Grit
One thing I’ve loved about this 2024 Revolution II squad is their ability to dig deep and stay in games despite how things have gone.
You saw it in full force as Revs II was down 3-1 entering the 80th minute, many teams would fold in and let the rest of the game run its course, but not them. It all started with Liam Butts netting his first professional goal in the 80th to bring Revs II in striking distance. Revs II kept their foot on the gas pedal as Eric Klein headed home a corner kick to net his first professional goal and the game-tying goal.
Seeing teams stay determined in scenarios like that is rare. It’s even rarer to see a young side like Revolution II stay in games. You have to give Richie Williams, the staff, and the players props for having the mentality and character to consistently stay in games.
2 - Eric Klein’s Excellent Outing
It can be hard for young players to step up in big moments, but not for Eric Klein. The 17-year-old was pivotal in Revolution II’s success on Sunday after netting the game-tying goal and the shootout-winning penalty kick.
While primarily playing defense, Klein is a versatile prospect who can play multiple positions in defense and the midfield and has the potential to grow into a first-team prospect.
3 - Precise Penalty Shootouts
Whether it was under Clint Peay or Richie Williams, a real strength of this Revolution II squad has been getting the job done in penalties.
2022 was a rough season for shootouts as they only secured one victory in five shootouts, but it’s been mostly smooth sailing since. 2023’s historical season was better as they secured victories in six of eight shootouts. 2024 has seen them go a perfect two for two.
Since MLS NEXT Pro’s inception, Revolution II has gone 9-15 (60%) in shootouts, which ranks 11th, but three teams ahead of Revs II included defunct side Rochester and both newcomers in 2024.
Taking a horrific 2022 out of the picture, Revs II have gone an impressive 8-10 (80%) in shootouts, which is tied for second in that span alongside Columbus Crew 2. Newcomers Carolina Core hold the top spot and are two for two in their inaugural season.
Long story short, Revolution II is good at shootouts, and hopefully, that will continue throughout 2024 and beyond.