After almost three weeks off, rust is expected. That was the case for the Revolution, who came out slow and sloppy. But, it’s important to note that Adam Buksa and Tajon Buchanan did not start for New England, who are real difference makers for the team.
Despite the slow start, neither team found chances or goals in the first half. It was the unlikely scorer of Wilfrid Kaptoum that opened the scoring straight out of the second half. They came out with energy in the second frame, but it quickly faded. Jhon Espinoza served up a perfect cross-in for Alvaro Medran, who volleyed home the equalizer just a minute later.
In minute 76, the Revs clapped back again. Carles Gil finally got back onto the assist sheet, lobbing a left-footed ball in behind the trio of Chicago center-backs. Gustavo Bou was the beneficiary, chipping 17-year-old goalkeeper Gabriel Slonina to secure the lead, which again wouldn’t last for long. In the final minutes of regulation, Ignacio Aliseda patiently moved into the box. He quickly fired, and Matt Turner made a very uncharacteristic mistake. Turner was unable to push away the shot that was fired very much in his direction, and the game was level once again. Chicago has had an effective season series with the Revs, grabbing two draws.
The Fire have drawn the Revs 2-2 on two occasions this season, and would’ve had another 2-2 result if not for Carles Gil’s game-winner a few weeks ago at Soldier Field. The tie does not hurt their aspirations in any way, as the competing Supporter’s Shield candidate Seattle Sounders suffered a shocking loss against the Houston Dynamo. Seven more points would now clinch the first ever piece of MLS silverware for the Revolution. They have a quick turnaround, visiting DC’s Audi Field on Wednesday at 7:30 PM EST.