MLS Cup 2007: Dynamo 2 - Revolution 1

This isn't getting any easier for the New England Revolution. For the third consecutive year, and fourth under coach Steve Nicol, they failed to win an MLS Cup final. A talented roster with quality players at every position, the Revs just haven't seemed to have that rare quality only seen in champions. Without that spark, that luck, or that fate, whatever you want to call it, they only draw comparisons to perennial bridesmaids rather than a storied dynasty. Their history more resembles that of the Buffalo Bills than their "brother club," the New England Patriots. The franchise having boasted such national team standouts as Clint Dempsey, Steve Ralston, and Taylor Twellman over the years only compounds their frustration.

As for the Houston Dynamo, they have become only the second MLS team to win back to back titles. Not since DC United won the '96 and '97 titles has any team even had the chance to repeat. While United lead the league with four MLS championships, only circumstance prevents the Dynamo from claiming the same supremacy. Had the league not "wiped the slate" when the club moved from San Jose to Houston in 2006, the Earthquakes' 2001 and 2003 MLS Cups would make four stars in seven seasons, a feat similar to DC's early dominance.

Dwayne DeRosario has been a part of all four championship seasons, and his performance in the final showed more of his trademark initiative. Known for stepping up in big games, his game-winning header in the 74th minute was just another addition to his career highlight reel, including knocking home the winner in last year's MLS All-Star Game vs. Chelsea. Setting up Houston's deadly attack with his strength and touch, DeRosario's presence kept even New England's overloaded midfield on notice for most of the match. While helped out by strong performances by teammates Nate Jaqua and Michael Ngwenya, the veteran's aggressive, physical play combined with a solid winner earned him the game's MVP award.

Overall, the final was of a similar quality, a match up of two complete teams highlighting the rising MLS talent level. While neither team has a true "name" player in the "Designated Player" sense of the word, both rosters were full of players complementing each club's contrasting style of play. Both are physical teams, but the Revolution focused on an aggressive English style reminiscent of Steve Nicol's days at Liverpool. Their offense centered on strong midfield possession and an emphasis on sending balls in to strikers Twellman and Noonan. The Dynamo instead focused on a more wide-open style, with quick passes and slashing runs from the wings. The differences in styles, quick back and forth, and tough, physical play made it an exciting match from start to finish.

Previously on Fanhouse:
Houston Dynamo Wins MLS Cup, Nobody Outside of RFK Stadium Sees It
Live Blog: MLS Cup 2007