Frustration is starting to show within the New England Revolution's players and coaches

Posted Monday, July 18, 2011 by YAHOO Sport

It was a very disappointing night in New England as the team suffered an embarrassing 3-0 defeat courtesy of the Philadelphia Union.

The Revolution’s loss to the Union was riddled with disappointment following a supporter protest that could have been responsible for the slow start to the match. The team’s supporters groups, known to congregate in the area known as “The Fort”, organized a protest in response to the team’s poor play. In the 17th minute, the groups left the stadium after sitting in the beginning of the match in silent protest. This bold move affected the team’s play.

New England has many questions that need to be answered following its rout on Sunday night. Embattled head coach Steve Nicol believes that the team’s performance is indicative of its play throughout the season.

“I think the first half was like what has happened this year to be honest” Nicol stated.

Aside from a small spell in the second half, the team continues to have issues in its midfield despite having United States midfielder Benny Feilhaber and Shalrie Josesph, who was suspended against the Union. The team struggled mightily in retaining possession and Nicol likened the team’s play to “schoolboy” football. He believes that the poor play in the center of the pitch is from a lack of communication.

“Part of play-making is communication, when you have nobody on the field talking, particularly when you are under pressure, it becomes twice as hard,” said Nicol.

Feilhaber displayed his frustration earning a red card after having two yellow cards and getting into an altercation with some of the Union’s players. After the game, it was clear to see the team’s locker room morale is down.

Goalkeeper Matt Reis was clearly upset with his team’s performance which saw the club drop to last place in the Eastern Conference.

“It was very uninspired out there,” said Reis. “We didn't show all of the stuff that we needed to do, we didn't fight and all in all it was a terrible game.”

Reis predicts that major changes will be made if Revs remain last.

“Everybody needs to realize they are playing for their jobs,” said Reis.”In the end if we keep sucking like this guys are out of jobs.”