F.C. Revolution

Men travel to Buffalo and Erie

From our news services

The long road trip started bright and early on Saturday, as the men prepared for their games in Buffalo and Erie.  Arguably the toughest three game stretch during the 2009 NPSL season for any team, the young group of players seemed optimistic as the 15 passenger vans departed from breakfast at the GAMEFACE office.

The team arrived in Buffalo with confidence and anticipation.  The Revs lost their home opener to Buffalo City FC 3-1 on May 16th, and with an 0-3 record, the squad could have easily wilted against the first place team.

However, the lineup changes and experience gained from the first three matches provided a boost in confidence for every player.

"I think the fact that the players are getting to know each other has helped a lot," said head coach Mike Moyer.  "Eric (Puls) and Jeff (Koegel) controlled the pace of the game.  Pulsy's move to the back four really solidified the organization of the defense.  We had to stop the bleeding that occured during the first three games.  Plus, our young guys are finally understanding the importance of team defending."

Both teams possessed the ball during the first half, but Buffalo City's Marc Stencel found the back of the net at the 32nd minute.  Buffalo had several other good opportunities during the first half, but the defense, led by Eric Puls and goalkeeper Rich Kessler kept their attack away from the goal.

There was a distinct momentum swing after the break, as the Revs possessed the ball and pressed the Buffalo City defense for most of the half.  Several good opportunities were wasted, including a missed "sitter" from six yards out, as the 90th minute approached.

The game ended with another loss, as the Revs dropped to 0-4 for the month of May.

"We definitely deserved at least a point in that one,"  Moyer said.  "We outplayed them duing the second half, and should have tied the game, but we're seeing real progress, and that is all we can ask."

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FC Reading Revolution - 0 
Buffalo City FC - 1

Halftime score 1-0