The Fire meet the Revs today at Toyota Park, 8:30 PM
New England are up 2-1 in the first leg and are in great position to cause the second upset of the playoffs. This match is of great interest for Fire fans because it could also be Blanco’s last MLS game as he is out of contract and is returning to second division Mexican club Veracruz.
Blanco has not stated whether he wants to return to the MLS. His priority is the 2010 World Cup. But the Fire should try and lure him back. He gives them the creative force and more than that, the Fire gets back one of the most colourful characters in the MLS who is a huge draw amongst fans.
For New England, their African contingent showed up big for the last match and it was Kenny Mansally’s free kick guided in by Emmanuel Osei into goal that sparked the Revs comeback. Sana Nyassi and Kheli Dube were very active in attack and gave the Revs many looks. But the men to watch out for is Shalrie Joseph and able deputy Jeff Larentowicz who won the midfield battle against the Fire at Foxborough. They will have to do the same to quell a Fire that will be desperate to keep their hopes alive. John Thorrington could be back to give them a lift and so could Gonzalo Segares in defense.