As we are underway for the 2016 MLS season we are celebrating the Philadelphia Union 7th season. During the 2015 season we saw a dismal performance all around, a season that ended with them at the 18th spot out of 20 teams. Needless to say, there was room for improvement and that is exactly what happened from what we can tell so far.
Every player seemed to come together this season on the technical side of things. As they are currently sitting in 2nd place, we are sure to have an exciting remainder of the season.
With a setback being their defeat against Seattle, things are still looking pretty good as the Union are only 3 points behind the league’s current leader the Montreal Impact. Below we will take a look at some of the things that have helped shape the team to what they are today.
Team Unity
Last season injuries were rampant for the Union from the get go. Struggling to find a flow, the team was shaken up every couple of games resulting in an inconsistent form. These changes affected every aspect of play and they were seen as being pretty sloppy on the field.
Staying consistent and having very few injuries has led them to playing as a unified team so far this season. Underperformance is a thing of the past, as they have gelled and are working together much better that they did last year. The cutting of players that seemed to not be reaching their potential has made them much more balanced and has given the team a new confidence in their line up.
Solid Attacking Line Up
CJ Sapong, Leo Fernandez, Walter Restrepo, and Tranquillo Barnetta have all contributed to revitalizing this front line. They work together to create much more attacking options and the goals resulting are a clear indicator that this season is going to be much different than last years revitalized attacking. The Union now has great attacking options and their goal creation has been superb. Like a well oiled machine, the Union are working well with only a few kinks to work out.
Do We Have A Winning Season To Look Forward To?
The last time they won the cup it was 2011 and Union fans are waiting for the same result again. If they stay healthy, they will surely make the playoffs and be a contender. Currently the football betting odds for them to win is low as it is early in the season. Their performance last year so far has not helped in this respect.
Ilsinho and Restrepo have changed the speed of play and are seen more often taking the defense off guard. Quick sprints up and down the sideline and passing almost effortlessly; these players are key to victory this season. Staying on point and not having too many injuries along with keeping a dangerous front line will be the prescription for taking this season’s cup. As we are entering week 7, we shall have some more tests for the Union for sure. It is not going to be smooth sailing the whole way, however, but so far they have shown true dedication and stand a very good chance at winning the title this year.
Add The Sports Daily to your Google News Feed!
