The Philadelphia Union went into the derby against NYRB on a five game losing streak against their arch-rivals. Going into the game, everyone knew it was a must win for the Union and many expected the Union to have a good game but may not be victorious. Nobody would have expected the Union to go out and dominate the Red Bulls in every single way. Philly was able to control the game and show utter dominance and a convincing 3-0 performance. The Union picked up a much needed three points and are now sitting solely in second place in the eastern conference.
The Union came out right from the start and put NYRB on the defense. In the third minute Jack McInerney broke free and threaded a threw ball to Conor Casey who slotted it home. Unfortunately Casey was offside by just a few feet. The Union responded by keeping the pressure on and earning a corner in the sixth minute. Le Toux took the corner it went Daniel who played the ball to Williams who lofted it into the box when Conor Casey rose up and headed it home. The Union were able to keep control of the game by strong defense and solid midfield play.
Danny Cruz was having a solid game, facilitating the offense. He was running at defenders getting in behind the defense. In the 27th minute New York midfielder Lloyd Sam went in studs up and delivered a crunching tackle to Danny Cruz. Sam was issued a red card and although Cruz tried to continue he was unable. So the Union were forced to make an early substitution to take off Cruz and bring on Michael Farfan. Farfan was able to be a adequate replacement, he was able to contribute with a number of solid passes by showing his vision.
In the second half, the Union came out and were able to dominate by keeping up continual pressure. Conor Casey was able to use his strength to slot home his second goal after a number of deflections. The Union then went into control mode. They took their foot off the pedal and made some smart passes. Flexing their muscles, the Union were able to string a number of passes together and work the team. They smartly closed out this game. When New York picked up in the attack, the Union’s defense rose to the occasion and stopped them in their tracks.
Conor Casey was by far the man of the match. He was able to use his strength to push around defenders and cause havoc for the defense. He was in the right place at the right time with just the right amount of skill to get around defenders and slot the ball home. His passing and skill is underrated for he was playing quick little passes. His goals proved to be great signs of things to come for McInerney will miss a few games due to national team duty. The Union will need everyone to step up and contribute and it starts with Casey picking up his goal production.
Union are in action next week at home against FC Dallas. Another tough opposition for the Union as they face a resilient and talented squad. The Union may be without McInerney but may have Kleberson back.
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