FOXBOROUGH, Mass. – While the New England Revolution's comeback bid fell short in a 3-2 loss to Toronto FC on Wednesday night, there was a bright spot for the group.
Versatile midfielder Emmanuel Boateng made his Revolution debut against TFC, coming on for the final 26 minutes to help the Revs bounce back after conceding three straight goals in the first half.
“It felt good to come out there and help,” said Boateng. “It’s been tough trying to work my way into the group. I know we have a very talented group and we’ve been getting results, so it’s kind of hard for coaches making decisions.
“[I’ve] been working hard and waiting for opportunity. Today was getting my first minutes, and I thought I came in and did the best I could to help give us a chance.”
The six-year MLS veteran is no stranger to providing a spark off the bench, and Boateng grasped hold of the opportunity on Wednesday, providing a key assist on Adam Buksa’s header to put the Revs within reach of Toronto.
“I was trailing the play, because I made a defensive run and I knew Tommy [McNamara] wasn’t going to be able to get across,” said Boateng. “I just supported him. He laid a good ball, didn’t need a touch, so I just saw Adam behind Omar [Gonzalez]. [I just got] it over him and gave Adam a chance.”
Head coach Bruce Arena, who coached Boateng at the LA Galaxy in 2016, praised the 27-year-old's efforts in the Revs' battle against Toronto.
“He did a] good job,” said Arena. “We needed a left-footed player. He’s been getting fitter, getting better in training, and we knew this week we were going to utilize him. So, he did a good job.”
Boateng’s teammates also noticed his hustle as he made his club debut, and they're confident that as the Revs enter a hectic summer schedule, he'll be called upon soon moving forward.
“[Emmanuel Boateng] had a big performance,” said Carles Gil. “He’s a good teammate because, like you said, he didn't have any minutes until today. He tries every day to train hard to try to play. And I'm sure that he will have more minutes, him and other players, because they train very good.”
Boateng’s attacking threat on the left wing and his versatility to drop back to the left back position demonstrated the unique adaptability that he can offer on the field.
“Our [outside] backs don’t sit back,” said Boateng. “We attack a lot, help in the attack. Just bust my butt, come back, defend, and help out in the offense, too – when I was trailing or leading ahead and try to help. It’s a position that I enjoy playing, too, so as long as I can get on the field I’ll take it.”
Boateng and the Revolution will have a 10-day break in their game schedule before returning to action at Atlanta United FC for their next match on July 17 (5 p.m. ET, ESPN).
