Strikers Wanted

Despite putting in back to back dominating efforts the Philadelphia Union are still win less through their last seven games. The Union have one major problem that has literally taken them out of the playoff hunt. The problem is that they have zero offensive threats. In the last seven games, the U have scored 4 goals and 0 of those goals came from strikers.

In the games against Toronto, Columbus, and New England, the Union out shot their opponent and have dominated possessions. Have created more then enough chances to win games but the execution has been sub par to say the least. They have been relying on goals from defenders and that is never a good thing. When a defender can provide a goal it’s a plus something to rally around but should never be the main source of goals.

It comes down to Jack Mac; he just can’t get it done. He is too short and lacks the skill sets to create his own chances. He can’t win balls from bigger defenders, and does not beat players one on one. He has a poor shot and touch. Also his work ethic is questionable. It seems like Jack Mac is taken mentally out of games for periods of times. You can go a whole half and almost never here his name.

I know that last paragraph is harsh but let’s be honest, Jack Mac was never ready to lead a team and now he is suppose to be the top goal scorer. It makes me worried that coach Hackworth would put that much trust in a player who has yet to show results.

Tonight the Union are going up against DC United and although the Union’s playoff hopes are all but dead they still should go out and try to get a result. As far as I am concerned every player with the exception of the defense is playing for their job. Also it is a rival game and the Union always perform well against their rivals.

DC United are in a playoff battle and they are just one point out of playoffs but with the season ending injury to last season’s MVP Dwanye De Rosario. The lack of De Rosario makes it easier for the Union and puts their playoff aspirations in limbo.

Tonight should be a tough game but the Union should leave it all out on the pitch. They are going up against their rivals and they are playing at home on national tv. It may be hard to motivate some of the players seeing as their is nothing to play for but the fans will be into the game that should be enough.

The Union need to play like they did against Toronto and Columbus, they need to try and make opportunities and chances. I predict that the Union will walk away with a draw 1-1 or 2-2. The U will go after the game but ultimately come up with a draw because DC will be bringing a strong offense.