Revs II vs Union II: Three Thoughts
Three thoughts following Revolution II's season opener!
Sunday saw New England Revolution II open their 2025 season with a meeting against Philadelphia Union II inside Gillette Stadium.
Despite some solid efforts in the attack, neither side found the back of the net as full-time ended in a scoreless draw. Thanks to goalkeeping, some well-taken penalties, and Leandro Soria sending the round five tying shot up and over the goal, Revs II managed to secure two points in their opener.
Here are three thoughts.
1 - On the grind
It was not the prettiest game Revolution II has ever played. The second team ended the match with only 44 percent possession and were outshot 13 to six. Despite Union II’s firm grasp on the game, Revolution II was able to tough it out and keep Philly off the board to secure one point with a 0-0 draw.
Revs II held their ground again in the shootout thanks to JD Gunn, plus strikes from Dias, Escobar, Klein, and Diarbian led Revs II to secure two points in their 2025 season opener.
Head coach Richie Williams admitted there are things to improve on but emphasized how Revs II’s performance was good for the first game of the season. While I agree there are areas for the team to improve, something looked different in a good way.
You could tell that all 11 players on the field were locked in for the full 90 minutes. Something that lapsed throughout the 2024 season.
Victor Souza talked about how the club comes into 2025 “motivated” and “hungry”. Revolution II surly looked hungry and motivated against Philadelphia, and hopefully, they’ll keep bringing it throughout 2025.
2 - Gunns Ablazing
JD Gunn’s first appearance of the new season was a tremendous one as the Panama international ended the day with five saves while helping Revs II keep the clean sheet intact. He came up big in the shootout as he saved Chris Olney’s shot to end the fourth round as Revs II secured the extra point following a 4-3 shootout win after five rounds.
Williams called Gunn’s performance “solid” and highlighted his ability to save the ball along with his distribution and ability to get the offense going.
Gunn was quick to praise the 10 players in front of him for their efforts and emphasized the excitement of getting the clean sheet.
Since arriving in New England, Gunn has been a standout between the sticks and has steadily developed over time. Hopefully, we see his form continue throughout 2025.
3 - Gevork’s Grit
Gevork Diarbian’s combo of speed and strength is a big asset to Revolution II and was something on full display during Sunday’s game.
Unfortunately, there aren’t many high-detailed statistics tracking at the MLS NEXT Pro level, but I genuinely think the winger has to be one of, if not the fastest players in the Eastern Conference. I can’t think of a player off the top of my mind whose pace has stood out like Diarbian’s
Diarbian’s pace up the left flank was a nightmare for Philadelphia. So much so, that Nathan Harriel received a yellow card in the 53rd minute for grabbing a hold of Diarbian to prevent him from advancing upfield.
Unfortunately, Diarbain’s efforts on the left side of the field didn’t result in much offense, if he can keep up the energy he put up on Sunday, it shouldn’t take long for the Revs II offense to get going.
Hopefully, we’ll continue to see that same grit on Thursday when Revolution II hosts FC Cincinnati 2 at 5:00 PM ET.
Was really impressed by Diarbian and it was great to see the Revs get the win in the shootout