While it wasn't the result the New England Revolution wanted, Wednesday's U.S. Open Cup game – a 4-3 loss to Orlando City SC – provided a glimpse at several young players.
All but three of the Revs starters were 22 or younger. After the game, head coach Marko Mitrovic explained, "It’s so important for their development to play in these kinds of games and get that experience. It’s the only way they can grow as players."
Malcolm Fry, who had a goal and two key passes, relished the opportunity, saying, "It was important for me to get this moment to reassure myself that I can do this and just keep going."
Let's take a closer look at three standout players.
20-Year-Old Malcolm Fry
The Stats
The Video
The Quote From Marko Mitrovic
"I think since I have been here, this is probably one of the best performances that Malcolm [Fry] had."
The Analysis
You'll see Fry's goal in a moment, but I like the clip above because it highlights what he needs to do to earn more first-team minutes. If the Homegrown can consistently beat opponents on the wing, he'll be useful as a late-game sub (and maybe even more).
Fry has good movement, a silky touch, and creative moves. He just needs to show that he can do it at the MLS level.
18-Year-Old Eric Klein
The Stats
The Video
The Quote From Marko Mitrovic
"Eric [Klein] had a very good game. He had a mature performance tonight."
The Analysis
Klein is an understated player who does a lot of things right. Not only does he have a tireless engine and a keen sense for where the ball will go next, but he also has the ability to find seams. There were multiple instances on Wednesday when I asked who played that ball before realizing it was once again Klein.
The son of a former Revs player has been seeing time as a late-game sub, a sign that he's earned the trust of the coaching staff. An increase in minutes – and maybe some spot starts – are the next steps.
21-Year-Old Marcos Zambrano
The Stats
The Video
The Quote From Marko Mitrovic
"I'm also very happy that Marcos [Zambrano] is coming [up] and growing, and this is his second senior appearance. I also think Marcos had a very good game, so I’m positive with both of them, and I'm happy for them.”
The Analysis
You will never question Zambrano's effort, as the striker is relentless in the press and smart with his off-ball movement.
Wednesday night was only his second first-team appearance, though he had five goals in nine games with Real Monarchs last year. He also scored against France in the U-20 World Cup, playing under Mitrovic.
Zambrano, who is on loan to the Revs from Real Salt Lake until Jul. 13, was goal-dangerous last night. His performance gives confidence that he could provide relief up top, a spot with little depth at the moment.
