The Philadelphia Union have opened the season to a 1-2-1 record with 1 win, 2 draws and 1 loss. Although their record is not the best the Union have outplayed their opponents. The Union have been dominating the midfield and possession. They have been creating more scoring opportunities while not giving up too much on defense. Overall, the Union are playing a very attractive and entertaining brand of soccer.
Although the Union are playing on an exceptionally high level of play they have not been able to win games. The Union have to feel like they should have won the opener against Portland where they dominated the entire game but gave up a 94th minute goal to tie. They also should feel like they should have won last weekend’s game against the Montreal Impact. Again the Union dominated play but were unable to score more than one goal and gave up the late equalizer even though Montreal were playing a man down.
What has been hurting the Union is their inability to score goals. They consistently score one goal but have not had a multi-goal game since August of last season. The team seems to be in a slump, they move the ball into the attacking third but then do not take smart shots. The service on the flanks for the most part is good. They are putting in quality crosses but Jack McInerney is having trouble putting his head on them. Jack Mac is also struggling with his positioning and shooting. He is holding onto the ball too long and not taking clean shots. It looks like his confidence is still down. For this offense to work they need Jack Mac (or someone else) to step up and take shots. If he can consistently take clean shots then that will open up the midfield for Le Toux and Miadana to take get more attack minded.
Another factor that has been hindering the Union is the injured defense. With Austin Berry and Shannon Williams out, the Union are forced to play Fabinho and Wheeler. The defense is okay but they give up big plays and are lackadaisical at times. This is to be expected with 1/2 of the defense out. Wheeler is doing a solid job filling in but he is not excelling. His movement and communication with Okugo is off and he is often beat by defenders. As for Fabinho, he is doing a good job but he is no Williams. When Williams returns the Union will have another high powered weapon and one of the best right backs in the MLS. Williams’ long throw ins and quality service is being missed.
The next game the Union head to Chicago to play the Fire. Chicago currently have 3 ties and 1 loss this season. The Union have to go into this game with the mentality to win. If they focus and relax the Union can walk away with a victory. Chicago has a strong defense and the Union have a weak offense but the Union should be able to control the tempo. Philly’s midfield should be able to cancel out the Fire’s attack and keep the ball in offensive third. Its going to be a very entertaining game and will have plenty of scoring chances. Hopefully the Union can capitalize on them.
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