FOXBOROUGH, Mass. – There’s an old proverb that says you should “strike while the iron is hot,” and New England Revolution forward Teal Bunbury has been capitalizing on the “strike” portion of this opportune saying throughout the first half of 2018.
Bunbury has been heating up since late March when he bagged his first goal in a 2-0 win over the Houston Dynamo, and he’s stayed red-hot through last weekend’s win over D.C. United as he netted yet another crucial goal, putting his team-leading tally at 10 goals, all in the past 14 games.
“I don’t think there’s a big secret to it,” Bunbury said of his current form. “I think it’s hard work, it’s guys putting [me] in good positions, just having confidence, (and) having the knack for goal.
“I think for me, my style is trying to work hard for my teammates, for myself, and putting myself in the best position to score. I don’t think there’s a secret recipe to it, but I think it’s just being attentive and trying to have a killer instinct.”
By combining this killer instinct with his work ethic, Bunbury has found a way to bring his performance to new heights. He’s the first Revs player to hit double-digit goals this season, and in doing so he’s established a new personal career high in goals scored, breaking his previous high of nine in 2011 with Sporting Kansas City.
Not only does Bunbury lead the Revs in goals scored, but he also leads MLS in game-winning goals, tied with Atlanta United FC’s Josef Martínez at five apiece. Bunbury’s finishing ability has proven to be a vital part of the Revs’ success, and his efforts have stood out both in matches and on the training field.
“You see him in training and he’s working hard, and it just feels good to have someone who works so hard get rewarded with the great goals and great performances,” said defender Andrew Farrell. “He’s a vital guy to our team, on and off the field, a great leader for us and I hope he scores 10 more.”
Bunbury’s 10th goal was scored in game 17, which puts him on pace for 20 goals this year as it’s now officially the halfway point of the season.
The Revs now turn their attention to hosting Seattle Sounders FC on Saturday night in Foxborough, and as they grind out the second half of the season, Bunbury will aim to have a similar impact.
