It’s been a tough year for Revolution forward Pat Noonan. After suffering a hamstring strain in February, things just haven’t been the same for him, writes Andrew Hush of MLSNet.com. But Noonan, who at this time last year was regularly being called up for the U.S. national team, got his chance last Saturday, coming on for Jose Manuel Abundis to play the second half of the Revs Eastern Conference semifinal at home to the Chicago Fire. In 75 minutes of action, Noonan managed to score, hit the crossbar and convert a crucial spot kick in the penalty shootout that sent the Revs into Saturday’s Eastern Conference final against D.C. United. An impressive comeback, by any measure. “I was so-so,” the Revs forward said, adding, “Personally, it’s been a disappointing year. Hopefully now I can do what I can to help the team in this upcoming game. We know that if we win one more game that we are in the finals with a chance to win a title.” Noonan pointed out that his fitness level wasn’t where he’d like it to be, yet Revolution coach Steve Nicol praised him for “playing within himself” during the time he was given. “[Pat] used his head, he didn’t go gallavanting around for 30 minutes and then he was completely done,” said the Scotsman. It was certainly a good enough performance to ensure that Noonan will receive playing time this Sunday, especially given that the return of Clint Dempsey now looks unlikely.