By Danny Picard
CSNNE.com
FOXBORO -- Revolution goalkeeper Matt Reis made his first appearanceof the season Sunday night, playing the entire first half and allowing one goalon three shots. Reis has spent the entire season rehabbing from offseasonshoulder and knee surgeries, and his return is welcomed with open arms.
Obviously the experience hes got, the ability hes got, itmakes everybody feel good around him, said Nicol.
He brings another dimension to our team, in terms ofleadership, said Revs captain Shalrie Joseph. And having him in the back, hiscommunication, hes been in the league so long, he brings that kind ofstability that we need in the back.
Backup goalkeeper Bobby Shuttleworth replaced Reis athalftime, and allowed two goals on the only two shots he faced.
The Revolution suffered another serious injury on Sundaynight, when veteran midfielder Steve Ralston dislocated his left elbow in the72nd minute. The injury came not even a minute after Ralston checked into thegame, making his season debut.
Ralston signed with the Revs on Tuesday, but his return tothe organization was short-lived, as he fell on his left arm moments after hereplaced Marko Perovic in the second half.
I dont know what to tell you, said Nicol. I mean, itsjust frightening, frightening.
As for the teams other, less serious injury, Revsmidfielder Khano Smith suffered a sprained right ankle in the first half, andleft the game in the 30th minute. Smith was seen leaving Gillette Stadium on crutchesand sporting a boot on his right foot. Some players said after the game thatthey expect him to be back with the team when they return from the World Cupbreak on June 27.
Danny Picard is on Twitter at http:twitter.comDannyPicard