Philadelphia Union Lose 2-1 at Sounders: Post Game Thoughts

So the Philadelphia Union lost to Seattle just a few minutes ago. Now it was a close game, and they pushed for much of it but ultimately they lost. Is the sky falling, or are they just unlucky?

A little bit of both. See if Roland Alberg does not get a second yellow the game is all for the taking, sure they are 1-0 down at the time, but they had been possessing most of the ball and had been getting their fair share of the shots. If the final goal of the game, Le Toux’s volley off of a Sapong header, was any indication even down a man they played well.

Apr 2, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Philadelphia Union defender Warren Creavalle (2) gets a red card against the Chicago Fire during the second half at Toyota Park. The Chicago Fire defeat the Philadelphia Union 1-0. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports /

Beyond that, however, the second yellow, and the resulting red was perhaps the most important part of the match. Whether or not it was deserved is not the problem, much like Warren Creavalle’s second yellow early in the season the most important thing in these instances is not asking for pity if it happens, but trying not to put yourself in the position of getting the second yellow. Sometimes first yellow cards are for tactical fouls, and while that can be an important part of the game, once you have a yellow, you should always be wary when going into a foul. Make sure you don’t think you can mess it up because messed up tackles can hurt your team.

For the most part, the Philadelphia Union looked good. Considering Barnetta did not start, Ilsinho is still out injured, and stalwart defender Ken Tribbett was out to keep an injury from progressing on the much-maligned pitch in Seattle the team did more than could be expected of them.

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Especially facing a Clint Dempsey, and Brad Evans led side, as well as the speed of Jordan Morris and Oalex Anderson. Speaking of the young American, he scored his first professional goal on the night for the Sounders, but ultimately Seattle’s win was more of a team effort.

One of the more interesting parts of the game was the Union’s number two draft pick Joshua Yaro getting the start for the injured Tribbett in center defense. He paired well with Richie Marquez in defense for the Union and didn’t make many mistakes. His speed proved to be a big factor in forcing Oalex Anderson to the right side and keeping Jordan Morris out of goal for much of the game. That said if Tribbett is healthy you probably start him, given the fact that for the most part the back for has played solidly thus far this season. You wouldn’t want to mess up what for the most part has been a solid defense.

What does this mean going forward? Well, the most important thing is that Alberg being out for the next game against New York City FC is the biggest catalyst for change for the Philadelphia Union. They lose one of their midfield group, but Tranquillo Barnetta looks almost ready to go the full 90, and if his play in the last few games is any indication, he should be ready to at least start, whether or not he is subbed out. As for the wingers going forward Pontius seems likely to continue to play one side, especially with his overall form, but with Le Toux leaving this game early, and possibly injured you may want to give him a rest. This is the case especially considering his age and two straight starts.

It will be important for Jim Curtin is to ask the players to think when they are on a yellow card. Fabinho and Creavalle played rather well with their yellows today, the two red cards seen this season were slightly harsh, especially for the play often seen in MLS but they happened. It will also be important to make sure you have your wingers healthy for next week, hopefully, Ilsinho can return to the field.

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For the next game, it would be smart at home to go for the three points, play the defense that has gotten you there so far, have Nogueira and Creavalle play the middle, with Barnetta, Pontius, and Ilsinho, or Fernandes if he is still hurt. You may give Sapong a rest up top, but in all likelihood he should be out there as always, leading the charge.

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