The New England Revolution may have started off their 2014 MLS season on the wrong foot, but now, nine weeks later, the club finds itself in a three-way tie for first in the Eastern Conference.
With all of the pieces finally starting to fall into place for Coach Jay Heaps and company, the Revolution have finally figured out what players will help lead this team to glory. There have been several surprises this year, especially from midfielder Diego Fagundez.
Coming into the 2014 season, Fagundez was one of the most talked about players the league has ever seen. After an explosive 2013 season, where he scored a career-best, 13 goals, Fagundez had every MLS fan's full attention. Unfortunately, the tides have changed for Fagundez this season. Currently, Fagundez leads the club in shots and shots on goal with 23 and eight respectively. The old phrase goes, "if you keep shooting, something is bound to go in." Even if he has yet to score this season, Fagundez is doing everything right, up to putting the ball in the back of the net.
On a more positive note, the Revs saw a breakout performance from one of their top rookie standouts last week. Rookie forward Patrick Mullins scored his first MLS goal in dynamic style, by ripping a left-footed beauty from outside the 18-yard box. Mullins had not played consistently in a match since week one, and made sure he took full advantage of this golden opportunity. Coach Heaps should be giving the two-time Hermann trophy winner more field time after his terrific performance last week.
Midfielder Lee Nguyen has been pegged "the best midfielder you probably don't have on your fantasy team" after the first nine weeks of the season. His four goals this year currently lead the Revolution in scoring. MLS Fantasy owners have pulled the trigger on Nguyen and are making sure to have him on their squad as the season moves along.
The Revolution are making great moves in the Eastern Conference and certainly are on the right track to make run for the playoffs late in the year.