CARSON, Calif. — The road warriors of Chivas USA have pulled into their second stop in their epic five-match road trip eager for a result.
To get back to their winning ways, the Rojiblancos will need to deal with a New England Revolution team that will debut their first DP signing, Argentine forward Milton Caraglio on Saturday night (7:30 pm ET, watch LIVE online). New England expect their 22-year-old forward will debut against Chivas and provide the Revs with an added attacking dimension.
Although the Rojiblancos dominated the Revolution 3-0 in the Los Angeles leg of the series, a similar result isn’t expected at Gillette Stadium.
“They’re a better team than their record indicates, they’ve got some great players and a new DP and will be motivated considering their loss [at the Home Depot Center],” head coach Robin Fraser told MLSsoccer.com. “It’ll be one of those games where we have to go in and play well and just do it with confidence. When we do that, we seem to be able to put together good games.”
Putting together good games against New England has become something of a specialty for Chivas USA, who have won the past four matches against the Revolution by a combined score of 11-0. In their last visit to Gillette Stadium, the Rojiblancos earned their definitive victory of 2010, a 4-0 romp.
Not to be out done by the Revs’ move, Chivas USA have made their own addition this week adding French left-sided midfielder Laurent Courtois. The addition comes at the right time for a team beginning a cross-country swing that will likely define their season.
The former West Ham midfielder participated in training this week and will be available for the match against the Revs. Although Courtois spent time practicing with the first team midfield on Wednesday, it seems likely the Frenchman will be on the bench.
“Right now with all the travel that we’re dealing with, we just need to accept him with open arms and get him integrated as fast as we can,” goalkeeper Dan Kennedy told MLSsoccer.com. “We need depth and competition and, if they give us depth and competition, then we will be a better club.”
For a side that is eager to remain in the playoff hunt, the match against New England is a must-win.
“In the big picture looking at these consecutive games on the road, if we win one or two of them we’ll come out in great shape,” said Kennedy. “So it’ll be a lot easier if we can go out and get that win this weekend.”
Adam Serrano covers Chivas USA for MLSsoccer.com. He can be reached atadam.m.serrano@gmail.comand on Twitter: @adamserrano
