The Philadelphia Union look for their first points of the season as they take the Colorado Rapids. The Union are coming off a 3-1 defeat at home against Sporting Kansas City. The Union were seemingly in control of the match during the first half and the wheels fell off when KC were able to score three consecutive goals. Manager Hackworth proclaimed the performance as unacceptable and took full responsibility for the loss in the home opener. While Colorado is coming off a 1-0 defeat against Dallas and is looking to pick up their first points of the season at home.
Taking a look tactically, the Union were very defensive in the home opener going with two holding mids and one lone striker. The Union ran a 4-2-3-1 making and when they had possession and played with poise it seemed to work. Le Toux’s work rate proved to be a huge asset but when things went wrong the Union were unable to gather themselves and effectively sustain an attack. Sustaining an attack will be a key for the Union. The Rapids were able to hold majority of the possession and will look to dictate the pace. The Union will have to absorb the Rapid attack and pick their chances. The Union should win the midfield battle. When the chance arrives the Union will look to create and capitalize.
A weakness for the Union has always been set pieces and this game could very well be decided by set plays and free kicks. Colorado does not have a pedigree of executing plays but since this game could be a closely contested affair the Union will have to mind their p’s and q’s. Zac MacMath has shown he can not defend any type of set play and is vulnerable when coming out. He lacks the confidence to make the big save or punch the ball away. Union defenders will have to be careful not to give up any fouls in the and or around the box.
This game has two intriguing subplots. This game is the triumphant return home for Conor Casey and the first time against former Union player Danny Mwanga. Conor Casey is the all time leading goal scorer for the Rapids and is one of the franchise’s most prolific players. During his five year stint with the Rapids, he netted 50 goals and won the 2010 MLS championship. Casey is one of the most notable players to ever wear the Rapids jersey. In his midweek presser manger John Hackworth hinted at Casey getting a large amount of minutes maybe even starting. Conor came on and played six minutes in the season opener. In those six minutes, Casey convinced the fans that he deserved more time. He used his size and skill to win headers and be a presence in the box. Former Union first round pick Danny Mwanga, who is also the U’s first ever draft pick. Danny’s tenure in Philadelphia was a rocky one, not being able to see the field consistently. He did manage to net a dozen goals in 61 appearances. He has the talent and skills to be something special but does he have the motivation? I expect Conor Casey and Danny Mwanga to play big roles in the game, something tells me that one of them will score.
The Union need to come out with a strong lineup, and since they are on the road I want to see a bigger backline. Bring in Soumare and have him play next to Parke and move Okugo into the midfield. That would give the Union size to combat set pieces. The Union have to attack and create not be scared. My prediction for this game is the Union will get a 1-1 tie on the road. Always take a point on the road.
Projected starting lineup
———–MacMath
Williams-Parke-Soumare-Gaddis
———Okugo–Carrol—–
Daniel——————-Marfan
———LeToux——-Casey-
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