April 27, 1996 –Revolution inaugural home game at Foxboro Stadium (Att.: 32,864)
Post by frankdellapa@gmail.com
The New England Revolution played D.C. United to a 1-1 draw, then won the post-match shootout in a festive atmosphere, the game kicking off a few hours after a Red Sox-Kansas City Royals game attracted 29,459 at Fenway Park.
United’s Raul Diaz Arce scored on a 24th-minute diving header, then Geoff Aunger equalized with an 80th-minute penalty kick, and Darren Sawatzky converted the decider in the post-match shootout. United’s Steve Rammel hit the bar and had a shot cleared off the line by Zak Ibsen in the first half.
The quality of play was low, but enthusiasm was high. “… the crowd was happy, hopping and delirious.” (Michael Madden, The Boston Globe)
Revolution 1:1 (2:1 shootout) D.C. United, Foxboro Stadium (Att.: 32,864)
“So far, the New England Revolution have presented a competitive team with charismatic players. But the franchise’s greatest asset appears to be timing.
The team attracted 32,864 fans to its home opener at Foxboro Stadium Saturday night, outdrawing that day’s Red Sox game by more than 3,000. And, with the seasons having ended for the Bruins and Celtics and the Red Sox struggling, the Revolution have a chance to be the most successful New England professional sports franchise going – on the field, at least. …
“The contest was played in a celebratory atmosphere. Reebok sponsored the game and company president Paul Fireman joined Revolution owner-operators Jonathan and Robert Kraft for the ceremonial kickoff. A fan club, the Midnight Riders, took seats – actually, the approximately 100 members stood for the entire game – behind the south goal and led their section in chants, cheers and songs.”
April 27, 1918 – Fore River 3:0 Fall River Rovers at Fore River Field, Quincy, Mass.
“… before one of the largest crowds ever seen at a soccer game in this city.” The final goal resulted from “one of the finest pieces of playing … young Paige of Fore River got in a running kick that sent the ball clean into the cage while he, unable to check his momentum, made a pretty handspring after kicking the ball.” (The Boston Globe)
NEW ENGLAND SOCCER HISTORY