I don’t even know what to say. That was incredibly disappointing. Maybe even a little bit embarrassing.
The Revolution traveled down to New Jersey on Wednesday night to play one of their MLS original rivals, the New York Red Bulls. It has been a tough stretch for the Revs. This was their third game in a week, first hosting Inter Miami at Foxborough, then traveling down to Austin, and now here in the New York metro area.
This game was so frustrating because the Revolution started well. They came out on all cylinders, flying around the field. The first 30 minutes might have been the best they have played all season. They looked dangerous, created chances, and went ahead 2-0 over the Red Bulls.
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It was a dream start for New England, but that dream would quickly become a nightmare. As the first half wore on, the Red Bulls got more and more opportunities.
The Revs began to crack.
The mistakes that have been so characteristic this season started showing up. Their tendency to sit back and absorb pressure once they have a lead would come back to bite them yet again.
Good teams should win a game when they have a 2-0 lead going into halftime. At the very least, they should get a point.
The Revolution, on the other hand, proceeded to do neither of those things. Instead, they collapsed.
Is collapsed the right word? Maybe self-imploded? Failed to show up?
However you want to phrase it, the Revs gave up five goals to the Red Bulls. Yep, you read that right. They conceded five goals in a half. In a game they were leading and at one point looked comfortably in command.
What happened? Did the team get complacent? Did they forget to show up and play the last 45 minutes? Or was the game plan to hunker down and protect the lead? If so, it was a terrible plan.
Whatever the reason, the Revs stopped doing what got them ahead and turned the game over to the Red Bulls. New York was more than happy to step into the driver’s seat and absolutely pummel the Revolution.
There is not much else to say.
The Revs lost the game 5-3. You know what, I don’t really even want to count Campana’s late goal in extra time, as the game was over at that point. So, in my estimation, the Revs actually lost 5-2. They took two great steps forward and then five terrible steps back.
It felt so promising at halftime. A win on the road would have brought momentum as the Revs start their four-game home stand against Orlando, Montréal, D.C. United, and LAFC. This upcoming stretch could make or break their season.
It is hard to be optimistic right now. The Revs just had one of their worst losses in recent memory and they have a terrible record at home this year.
I desperately want to believe the Revolution can make the playoffs. Right now, I am having a hard time convincing myself.
