The Union put out a strong performance last night as they beat the Crew 3-0 with all the goals happening in the first half. The Union came out with a high octane attack that resulted in the Crew conceding goals. They had no response to the Union’s offense who kept up the pressure. This game comes as a timely victory for the Union who are now off from MLS play till the 23rd. The Union’s performance last night vaulted them to 3rd place and three points out of second with a game in hand on the second place Red Bulls.
For the first 25 minutes the game was split even. The Union were controlling the tempo and looked the better team in possession but the Crew were creating some chances and forced MacMath to make some early saves. As the Union proved sometimes it only takes a stroke of luck to get pieces to fall your way. Brian Carroll took a shot that he had no business taking and it took a deflection and rolled just in the back of the net in the most unusual way. Four minutes later the Union gained a corner kick and Brian Carroll flicked it towards the back post where Sheanon Williams side volleyed it home. The Union were up 2-0 in the 30th minute and left the Crew looking dejected. They were second guessing themselves and that is when Le Toux intercepts the ball and was able to put in a solid cross that found a diving Conor Casey and the Union were up 3-0.
The second half the Union weathered the storm and were able to keep Columbus’ chances to a minimal. Philly held long stints of possession and were able to hold their shape. Although the Union did not score, they performed beautifully. They were able to create a few scoring opportunities but unable to capitalize. Jack McInerney was unable to find the back of the net but created several scoring chances.
Roger Torres stole the show last night. The little Colombian entered the game with eight minutes left to play and was greeted with a standing ovation. He did not score or do anything spectacular but he was able to play a few smart passes. He gave the fans just enough to realize why we missed him so much. Roger receives the ball smoothly puts in dangerous crosses and cab facilitate a midfield. In a recent interview with Jonathan Tannenwald the Colombian stated how he is frustrated but loves Philadelphia and wants to play here.
Player of the game goes to the captain Brian Carroll who put in an extraordinary performance. Carroll is not scoring but his deflected goal was greatly appreciated and opened up the flood gates for the Union. He was able to gain an assist on the second goal by heading the ball across to Williams. Brian was quick and savvy last night which is the exact opposite of what he has been this season. He won the 50/50 balls and was always in the right place at the right time. He seldom turned the ball over and was making great passes. He continually beat out the Crew and intercepted pass after pass.
The Union won majority of the 50/50 balls while making smart passes. The Union had some fight in them and played with vigor and energy. If the Union can recreate this form they will find themselves winning more often and climbing the table. The Union’s next game is a friendly against Reading United on Friday June 7th. The next competitive game for the Union is in DC against DC United in the fourth round of Open Cup play.
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