Revolution Looking to Leave Fans Hopeful Heading Into Offseason
"So, hopefully the fans can take solace if we can get a result in Miami. I know I would."
The 2024 campaign hasn’t gone to plan for the New England Revolution and fans are concerned about the direction the team is headed in. While a Decision Day match against Inter Miami will be a tough test, it is an opportunity to give fans a reason to be hopeful headed into the offseason.
The season doesn’t need another recap. Revolution fans are well aware of how much the team has struggled. Injuries, poor performances from key players, poor mentality, and a new style of play doomed New England to miss the playoffs.
But fans’ disappointment and contempt are valid. The Revolution should be contenders for an MLS Cup, not a wooden spoon. With no changes expected on the touchline or in the front office, fans are left wondering why they should feel confident that New England will perform better in 2025.
A good performance against Inter Miami would make fans feel slightly better about the state of the team heading into the offseason. With Lionel Messi and Co. being one of the best teams in the league, even a draw would be a positive result.
Center back Dave Romney stated after the loss to the Columbus Crew that a positive result against Miami could be something that fans can take solace in but acknowledged that the season hasn’t been a pleasurable one for supporters.
“Getting a win would obviously be huge,” Romney said. “This Miami team is one of the best in MLS history. And then just the pride of keeping that record in New England. It’s a record that’s something to be extremely proud of. I know all the 2021 guys worked their asses off to get that record. It’s something that you kind of want to see etched in stone for a long time. So, hopefully the fans can take solace if we can get a result in Miami. I know I would. Obviously, this game isn’t one we’re going to inspire fans with, but I think the way we’ve played in certain games down the stretch has been positive. It’s tough to say you’re getting the fans excited when you’re near the bottom of the table.”
After New England’s loss to D.C. United that saw the Revolution eliminated from the playoffs, Porter highlighted that the club still needs to play for pride but also for the supporters.
“Two things. We play for pride. Obviously, it's a big thing, chance to show our character, play for pride, pride in the club, our supporters. Obviously, it's been disappointing season, but we have an obligation to continue to evolve and grow and develop for next year and the future,” the coach said. “We're playing for pride. Pride for our club, pride for our job, pride for just who we are as people.”
A result against Miami would help improve the mood among supporters but this Revolution squad still needs to improve. If New England gets off to a similar start in 2025, more drastic measures will need to be taken.
Porter: "We play for pride. Obviously, it's a big thing, chance to show our character,...". The Revs showed their character against Columbus this past weekend and it wasn't pretty. Also, I get why Romney wants/needs to put a positive spin on things but if by some miracle the Revs are able to win against Miami, it will in no way make me feel more positive about next year. The only thing that would make me feel better is if Bilello, Onalfo, or Porter is gone (preferably more than one of them).
I'd like to believe that they could get their motivation up to defend their record (which is truly something to be proud of), but ... based on what I've seen in the last few games ... Nah.
I'd be thrilled with a tie.