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Re: 25-27 Apr: MLS
Revolution roll out reserves
Revolution coach Steve Nicol probably didn’t think he would have to worry about reserve games this early in the season.
But with six starters out for tonight’s match against FC Dallas, Nicol said his team caught a lucky break with the glut of reserve fixtures that allowed his bench players to catch up on their fitness.
Jeff Larentowicz (ankle) and Sainey Nyassi (groin) are the latest additions to an injury list that includes Chris Albright (ankle), Steve Ralston (shoulder) and Taylor Twellman (knee). Midfielder Mauricio Castro can’t play because of his red card in Saturday’s 1-1 draw in New York.
“It’s not pretty,” Revolution defender Jay Heaps said. “There are lots of little nicks and bumps. It’s a scenario where we want to be cautious. It’s a long season. The positive is that guys will get a chance.”
Some of those players, such as Gary Flood and Amaechi Igwe, have gotten their chance in the lineup. For others, like Wells Thompson and Argenis Fernandez, the trip represents their first chance to start.
“We’re always complaining about getting guys on the field,” Nicol said. “It’s a great opportunity for them to show us what they can do.”
The task won’t be easy as FC Dallas is the league’s only undefeated team (2-0-2) and is the highest scoring team in the league (eight goals, tied with Columbus).
“They have a great mixture of small ball in the midfield and big, athletic guys up top,” Heaps said. “It’s a combination of finesse and power.”
FC Dallas forward Kenny Cooper, a hulking striker surprisingly adept with his feet, has four goals and serves as the focal point of an attack with buzzing wingers Arturo Alvarez and Ricardinho.
Nicol contends there won’t be any excuses if his team fails to come away with a good result.
“I’m sure people aren’t expecting much with the guys we have out, but we have the same expectations,” he said.
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25-27 Apr: MLS
