By Frank Dell'Apa, Globe Staff  |  June 28, 2004

A week ago, the MetroStars had one healthy field substitute for an MLS game against the Los Angeles Galaxy. Seth Stammler made his professional debut in the final minute of that game, a 2-1 MetroStars victory. The Revolution have been comparatively robust. In two of their last three matches, the Revolution bench has included two field players.

Whether or not the quality of the league is improving, such lack of depth negatively affects the perception of MLS teams. The Revolution defeated the MetroStars, 2-1, Saturday night, despite losing goalkeeper Adin Brown (concussion) at halftime, the goals provided by first-year pros Felix Brillant and Clint Dempsey. The Revolution displayed a more energetic game than the visitors, who were playing their third game in eight days, a schedule that included a visit to Los Angeles Wednesday. But it is questionable whether the Revolution can continue to produce such results with so many players unavailable.

The emergence of young players such as Brillant and Dempsey, plus several MetroStars, whose lineup averaged 24 years of age, is inspiring. But if the MLS is to commit to a youth movement, it will need a plan that includes either reserve and/or youth teams to support the primary squads.

Brillant, 23, began his career with Cannes in France, and likely would have remained in Europe if the club had not declared bankruptcy. Brillant performed for the youth team for two years, returned to Montreal, then went to Franklin Pierce College and also played for the Cape Cod Crusaders. Brillant has been practicing full time with the Revolution for less than two months, since finishing the school year in New Hampshire, but he has shown marked improvement in recent weeks as his confidence increased.

"Felix is spinning people around and dancing on the ball," Revolution captain Joe Franchino said. "He's electric and I love watching him play. He is fun to watch during the week in practice and on the weekend in games."

The point is: Players such as Brillant and Dempsey probably should be placed in apprentice situations much earlier in their careers. Dempsey, 21, the youngest Revolution player, also has thrived in the competitive environment, becoming a much more accomplished performer since joining the team in February.

The Revolution (3-7-3) are relying on several players who either were not with the team or were in reserve roles last year. Of those expected to play at Colorado Sunday, only Franchino, Jay Heaps, and Steve Ralston were starters a year ago, and only Heaps is playing in the same position.

It might be unrealistic to expect a team to be in any position but last place without more continuity.

"We are playing consistently, we are solid in the back, and we are getting the ball wide to Steve Ralston and Richie Baker," defender Marshall Leonard said. "It was good to get the three points because we have been playing well, but just not getting the rewards. But this is just one win. We don't want to get ahead of ourselves."

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