Can the Union Continue to Give Hope to Its Struggling Sports City?

The Union has been the only bright spot in Philadelphia sports, remaining unbeaten in their last 14 games as they head into their match against Charlotte.  The Union should be feeling very confident going into Saturday as they are back home at Subaru Park.  Historically, the SOOB (Subaru Park) has been nicknamed “Philly Fortress” because the Union has been nearly unstoppable when playing at home.  The energy from the crowd, the Sons of Ben, and the current form of the team, the Union has every right to feel like it’s going to be three points.  Of course nothing is guaranteed, but maybe Illoski, Bueno, and Blake say otherwise.

Illoski has been on fire as he is coming off a goal in his last match against Chicago.  What makes Illoski so dangerous is that opposing teams always need to know where he is at all times.  This allows the forward to play freely and with a ton of confidence because teams know how dangerous he is on and off the ball.  We continue to see how well Illoski and Damiani pair well together up top on the attack, so the shots should be flying from both of them. 

Although it is unclear if Bueno is guaranteed to start, whenever the explosive midfielder is on the field, he brings that physicality.  His hard playstyle makes it difficult for opponents to find space with the ball.  His defensive work rate also provides extra security when the defense is under duress.  Bueno’s strongest role is transitioning the ball from the back line to players like Cavan who have pace that can spring onto the attack.  Bueno is quietly becoming a player to watch whenever he is on the field.

The last player that can swing the odds in Philly’s favor is goalkeeper Andre Blake.  Apart from Alejandro Bedoya, Blake has the most experience with the club and is the longest-tenured player in the starting lineup.  Since being drafted in 2013, the Jamaican international has been a crucial asset, and Richter can count on him between the posts in big games.  The three-time goalkeeper of the year will face a Charlotte side that has been solid all season.  Just like heading into Soldier Field, Blake can expect to be busy.  

Safe to say this match will be highly competitive as both of these teams are battling for a spot in the top four so they can get home field advantage in the postseason.  With only five games remaining, there is no room for error.  Ryan Richter, the players, and the fans can expect a good result on Saturday based on the club’s unbeaten run continuing into this week.  

PHOTO CREDIT: Isaiah Vazquez from Getty Images