By Ridge Mahoney, Senior Editor
REVS REDUX: The team of destiny will meet the epitome of ill fortune in MLS Cup 2002.
New England's 2-2 tie with Columbus gave the Revs that semifinal series, 5 points to 2, and set up a showdown with three-time final-game loser Los Angeles Sunday at Gillette Stadium.
As as been the case all through the playoffs, the Revs defended stoutly, got some big saves from Adin Brown, and tallied opportunistic goals.
ABSENCES. Defender Rusty Pierce replaced the suspended Jay Heaps at right back for New England. Striker Taylor Twellman sat out with a knee injury.
TURNING POINT. The Revs were leading, 1-0, on Steve Ralston's first 2002 playoff goal when Wolde Harris ran onto a lofted ball from Brian Kamler and forced it past keeper Jon Busch two minutes into the second half for a 2-0 lead.
RALLY. Not until the 80th minute did the Crew finally break through to score its first goal of the semifinals.
Brian McBride, who had earlier hit the crossbar, scored to cut the lead to 2-1 and when Dante Washington headed a second goal five minutes later Columbus had a chance to salvage a win and perhaps the series.
But the Revs held out for the remaining five minutes of regulation and 10 minutes of overtime to reach their first MLS Cup.
STAT: Columbus outshot the Revs, 24-11, in the decisive game and for the series held a 61-28 edge.
CROWD? Only 9,216 (announced) people turned out on a rainy afternoon to see the Revs' historic victory.