After nearly 12 years of suffering and so-close-yet-so-far disappointments, the New England Revolution finally have a trophy to lift.

On Wednesday night in Frisco, Texas, the Boston-based side edged out FC Dallas in a 3-2 goal feast to banish their previous US Open Cup final loss and three previous stumbles in the all-or-nothing MLS Cup to the dustbin of history.

"We've lost big games in the past," said head coach and former Liverpool defender Steve Nicol. "Our fans will be delighted now as they see we can win when it really counts. This is a good day for us."

US international Pat Noonan was the driving force behind the victory, with a hand in every goal. He tapped in to an open net in the 21st minute after some good service from long-time club servant and US winger Steve Ralston. And after Arturo Alvarez drew level nine minutes later, Noonan helped set up another easy goal for the Revs when he flicked on a Ralston corner minutes before the break and allowed Taylor Twellman to bundle home at the back post.

Again, in the 58th minute, an elegant little backheel from Noonan set up Wells Thompson who made no mistake to make it 3-1. Although the Texans roared back to make it 3-2 in the 64th minute through Abe Thompson, it was to be, finally, the Revolution's night to savour.

And with the post-season play-offs fast approaching (MLS employs a series of home-away series culminating in a one-off cup-style final to decide the season's champion), Revolution players and their coach know this win might just be the bit of extra momentum they need.

"You want to be winning when you head into the play-offs," said Noonan after the match. "That way, you can get on a roll and keep getting better and more confident."

Dallas boss Steve Morrow was understandably disappointed after the contest. "I think we shot ourselves in the foot by giving up soft goals," Morrow said. "If you give up soft goals you are not going to win championships."

The US Open Cup has been played since 1914 and is open to all professional and amateur clubs affiliated to US Soccer.