FOXBOROUGH, Mass. – It’s one of those storybook goals, the type that everyone writes tales about.
Kevin Alston, who was treated for leukemia just one year ago, missed the last four games with a hamstring injury, and had never scored a goal in his six-year MLS career, came through at the most ideal time for the Revolution, helping catapult them to a 2-0 victory over Houston on Saturday evening at Gillette Stadium.
For an offense that once again had ample chances, and once again could not knock them home, Alston’s 68th minute score from 13 yards out, allowed the club to exhale in front of their home crowd.
“It felt really good to get that goal, especially at home,” Andrew Farrell told MLSsoccer.com. “It was an awesome feeling, especially for Kevin and everything that he’s been through. It’s a great story.”
Handling the sideline duties for suspended coach Jay Heaps, assistant Tom Soehn urged the club to come out with a killer instinct in the second half, making note of the space that Alston was being afforded on the flank.
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“They left a lot of space for Kevin to attack,” said Soehn to the media following the win. “I think Kevin just needs the confidence to really take those spaces. The guy’s fast, has the confidence to beat guys and him scoring is going to help that confidence.”
Alston took advantage of space on the left side, working with Daigo Kobayashi to set up a run.
Kobayashi’s initial give to the streaking Alston was blocked by Kofi Sarkodie, but his follow up found Teal Bunbury who flicked the ball by Jermaine Taylor as Alston snuck in and buried it.
“Tommy was just pushing me all game, telling me the space was there,” Alston said. “That pushing really helped me to be in a good spot from the start.”
After 123 appearances in the MLS, Alston finally tacks one up in the goals scored column.
“It’s amazing to finally break the seal,” said Alston. “It’s six years later and I’m just glad it’s finally here. I can say I scored at least one in my career.”
