Tonight a tradition continues for fans of the beautiful game as the hero’s of PPL Park, the Philadelphia Union take the short trip to Berks County to face sister team Reading United A.C, in a match that marks the sixth between the two sides.
The annual friendly marks a night of celebration and excitement for fans of both clubs..it’s almost like seeing Katy Perry play in your local pub, the atmosphere and environment could never be replicated.
Since entering the MLS in 2010, the Philadelphia Union have signed no less than nine former Reading players including Ray Gaddis, Andrew Wenger and C.J. Sapong. It’s a chance for the next generation of footballer to impress ahead of Coach Curtin and his coaching staff as they face off against some of PPL Park’s finest.
Reading United play a very quick, aggressive style of Soccer. The young blood mixed with raw passion has seen the team move into second place in the PDL with a 3-1-1 record, with a game in hand over NY Red Bulls’ U23’s.
Defensively, Reading have been formidable this year, making them perfect test subjects for some new Union tactics. After failing to impress when hosting New York recently, the Union will be relishing this chance. Top goalkeeping prospect Kyle Morton has led his team to a brilliant record from the back. It takes a lot to become a leader as a goalkeeper, when you look at greats such as Neuer and Casillas, this youngster has the right qualities to become thee next big thing.
Beginning the season with a 396 minute period without conceding, he could well be a thorn in the side for the Union tonight, but also a top goalie prospect for the future, if there’s one thing the Union need right now it’s stability and consistency in front of goal.
Gifted center back Martin Nygaard who has also been highly rated by players of popular game Football Manager (the same game that sourced Neymar) will also get a chance to shine so be sure to keep an eye out for him!and Andrew Moullin. The wing backs like to press high up the field, joining Reading’s potent attack.
If you’re in the area and love Soccer, you need to go and see this game! It symbolises the passion our fans carry about our great city and adds a closeness that’s felt nowhere else on the planet
