Philadelphia Union: Are the Union Playoff bound?
HOME vs New York Red Bulls 4 p.m. October 23rd
It’s the final game of the regular season and of course, it’s a rivalry game. Philadelphia Union host rival New York Red Bulls.
Fourth time these two teams face off, twice in MLS play and once in the U.S. Open Cup tournament. The Philadelphia UnionUnion were victorious in two of the three, the third resulting in a draw.
In the U.S. Open Cup matchup, the Union would send the Red Bulls home early in a 2-1 defeat. The first half was completely dominated by New York, as they took a 1-0 lead and the Union couldn’t muster up much offense.
The second half was the exact opposite and the Union dominated the last forty-five minutes. Ilsinho would assist on both of the goals scored by Chris Pontius.
The second match against the Red Bulls was eerily similar to the first. This time, the Union would again be hosting the New York side, in MLS play. Sacha Kljestan would score a first-half brace just before halftime and the Red Bulls jumped out to an early 2-0 lead. The second goal seemed to quiet the once-rowdy crowd at Talen Energy Stadium.
The Union would answer back, though, thanks to a C.J. Sapong penalty kick goal in the 67th minute. The crowd was quickly back to life and would have even more to cheer about as Chris Pontius would score the equalizer 60 seconds later; tying the game 2-2, the eventual final score.
The third meetup away at Red Bulls arena, the Union would come out and absolutely dominate from start to finish, beating Red Bulls 3-1 at home.
Game Expectations
The Philadelphia Union are on a roll right now and at the right time. This one is a little closer than the last game. It’s the chippiest game of the season, two rival clubs playing for the fourth time. Behind the raucous home crowd, the Union beat the New York Red Bulls, 2-1.
Current Record: 16-9-9, 57 points.
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