​Charlotte FC v New England Revolution: Smith demands attacking improvements

Dean Smith knows Charlotte FC must start producing in the final third if they are to cling onto an MLS Cup Playoff spot, starting with Saturday's meeting with the New England Revolution.

Charlotte sit seventh in the Eastern Conference standings, boasting a five-point cushion to those outside the playoff places, but they have struggled since the Leagues Cup break.

Wednesday's 2-0 defeat at Orlando City was their third loss in succession, and they have only scored twice in four games since returning to MLS play, leaving Smith frustrated.

"At the moment we're having to work really hard to stay in a game, because we're not creating enough big chances, we're not scoring enough goals full stop," Smith said.

"So I was really frustrated. As I say, that's something that's probably crept in over the last four games since we came back from the break.

"We've only scored two goals in the last four games since the Leagues Cup and I feel some of the players are struggling to find their form and their confidence at the moment.

"At this point of the season, that little bit of a lack of concentration has been disappointing."

New England, meanwhile, threw away a 2-0 lead in their 2-2 midweek draw with CF Montreal, a result that leaves them five points adrift of the playoff picture at the foot of the Eastern Conference.

"It's another disappointing result. That's six points we've dropped in our last three home games," Porter said. "We could have been in a much different situation.

"We've got to pick ourselves back up and continue to look at the good, but as I told the guys, I'm tired of seeing them fall off in the second halves."

PLAYERS TO WATCH 

Charlotte FC – Patrick Agyemang

With the hosts struggling for goals, they may need Agyemang to step up. He started on the bench last time out and has appeared as a substitute eight times this season, yet his seven goals are still more than any of his team-mates.

New England Revolution – Carles Gil

Gil laid on an assist as the Revs drew with Montreal last time out, his 10th in 22 appearances this season – more than any other Revs player.

MATCH PREDICTION – CHARLOTTE FC WIN

Charlotte are winless in their last six regular-season matches, registering three straight draws then being defeated in each of their last three, having won four of their previous six before this run began.

New England have not fared much better of late, though, going four league games without a win (two draws, two defeats) and only winning one of their last nine (three draws, five losses).

No team in the Eastern Conference has lost more away games than the Revs' nine this term, so this match could come at a good time for Charlotte.

OPTA WIN PROBABILITY

Charlotte FC – 51.5%

New England Revolution – 23.8% 

Draw – 24.7%