Every time the New England Revolution step on the field at Gillette Stadium, they’re reminded of one thing: greatness.
Six Super Bowl championship banners stand tall above the video screen as an ode to the decades-long dominance of the New England Patriots. They created a dynasty, made Foxboro, Massachusetts a fortress and reigned over the NFL. Those days are now in the rearview with Tom Brady’s departure.
But now a different type of futbol is bringing joy to a region so passionate for sports greatness.
Head coach Bruce Arena and the Revs have gotten extremely comfortable this year being atop Major League Soccer standings and making history along the way. With 49 points in 22 games, not only are they running away with the Eastern Conference’s top seed, but they’re also in the driver’s seat to win the Supporters’ Shield, annually awarded to the team with the most regular season points.
That mark is tied for the most in MLS history at stage point of the season, replicating the success LAFC’s total from their historic 2019 campaign. It isn’t bold to think New England can take a crack at the 72-point record set by the Black and Gold.
So why are they in position to do it?
Carles Gil makes MVP case, while Tajon Buchanan and others shine
Carles Gil has been in MVP-level form for the Revs this season. (Photo by Fred Kfoury III/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
An integral part of the Revs’ fast start is midfielder Carles Gil, who before picking up a muscle tissue injury that sent him back to his home country of Spain for rehab was the runaway choice for MVP. He’ll reportedly be back in time for the season’s stretch run.
New England impressed weekly due to his class and ease on the pitch, orchestrating the attack and even scoring a few gems himself. He quickly racked up 10 assists in 10 games and currently has an MLS-best 15 helpers, five shy of joining the elite 20-assist club which only counts three players in league history among its members.
“We’ve always…