Khano Smith's New England Revolution opened their MLS play-off series with a creditable draw at Giants Stadium on Saturday night.

The Revs now play for the right to advance to the Eastern Conference Championship when they wrap up the two-game series next weekend at Gillette Stadium. Should the teams remain tied, they will play a 30-minute mini game (two 15-minute halves).

If score still remains tied, penalty kicks will determine who faces the winner of the Chicago Fire and DC United Conference semi-final. Chicago won the first leg of that tie 1-0, in Chicago.

If the Revs progress to the Eastern Conference Championship it would mark their sixth straight showing in the conference final - a new MLS record.

Keeper Jon Conway made three excellent saves for the Bulls, while Revs' gloveman Matt Reis saved five shots for the Revolution. There was some controversy in the closing minutes, when Bulls midfielder Dane Richards got tangled with Revolution defender Avery John, who appeared to have touched the ball with his hand in the penalty area.

However, referee Jair Marrufo called Richards for a foul much to the disappointment of Red Bulls coach Bruce Arena.