The New England Revolution welcome Joe Public FC, the Jamaican side that advanced to the tournament by way of their runner-up finish in the Caribbean Football Union Club Championship in 2007. In their first leg matchup, Joe Public came away with a 2-1 win, meaning the Revs would advance to the Group Stage with a shutout win. Extra time would be needed if the game ends 2-1 in favor of New England; if the Revs give up more than one goal, they must win by atleast two goals outright in order to move on.It won't be an easy task for Steve Nicol's squad to find goals, especially due to a recent lack of depth at the striker position. Adam Cristman is still unavailable (toe sprain), as is Kheli Dube (adductor strain). Taylor Twellman, who scored on the weekend against the Los Angeles Galaxy, is listed as 'doubtful' with facial lacerations sustained in a collision with Galaxy goalkeeper Steve Cronin on the scoring play. Coach Nicol said it is possible that Twellman has a concussion as well, so don't expect to see him take the field tonight.
Chivas USA are also trying to dig out of a hole, one created by their 2-0 defeat at the hands of Tauro FC, who gained entrance into the tournament by being runners-up in Panama's ANAPROF league. The deficit means Chivas must win by three goals outright in order to advance. A 2-0 victory for Preki's side would send the game into extra time and then, if necessary, penalty kicks.
As has been the story for most of the MLS regular season, Chivas USA will be without several of their key players due to injury. Maykel Galindo, Jesse Marsch, Alex Zotinca, and Claudio Suarez are all out of commission for the match, while several others are playing at less than 100%. One of those players who returned from injury last week and could make a difference is former MLS Cup MVP Alecko Eskandarian, who also scored on the weekend to help Chivas beat visiting Toronto FC at the Home Depot Center.
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