Match Recap: Union put out the Fire, move closer to that Red Line

Philadelphia Union defeated Chicago Fire 3-1 in a midweek clash. They have moved one point behind New England Revolution, putting them one point out of a playoff spot. Here’s a look at how the Union put out the Fire, and a look at what’s to come!

Match Report:

Changes in attack!

Burke, Ilsinho, and Accam provided a good shake up for the Union’s attack and created some different options. The Union looked to play balls over the top to Burke at time. His runs in the box were intentional, and he scored again! Ilsinho showed his skill with his elastico golazo! Great change of pace from the speed of Fafa; worked perfectly against Chicago’s defense. Accam didn’t get on the score sheet, but was dangerous and had some chances to get his fist Union goal.

Consistency on the back line!

Gaddis, Trusty, McKenzie & Rosenberry continued their strong form. Gaddis has been a revelation at left back getting forward and creating chances in the attack; as well as, being solid on the defensive side of the ball. The Trusty and McKenzie pairing continued to be strong. Both did well distributing the ball, and won most of their battles in a physical battle. McKenzie’s injury gave Jack Elliot the ability to come on; he looked good, but the back line was a little rattled after McKenzie went down. Rosenberry did well putting out fires and showed his great chemistry with Ilsinho moving forward!

The midfield three of Dockal, Bedoya & Medunjanin are proving their worth!

Dockal has been living up to his price tag over the last four games. Another goal and assist has helped add to his stats and the Union’s success. His tenacity, and skill is showing that he is the type of #10 the Union need. Bedoya was his normal self. He has been the most consistent player throughout the season. Medunjanin has been more active and efficient in his play. Early on in the year his passing was off, and was rarely involved in stopping opposition’s attacks. He now has found his world-class form, and has been monumental in creating attacks from deep positions.

Beating the Fire is great, but can they duplicate this success against the greats of the east?

Atlanta is the jewel of the east, especially when they are at home. If the Union can go there and get a draw, they will be taken more seriously! Toronto comes to town, after an early week US Open Cup game, to end a long stretch for the Union. If the Union can take advantage of TFC’s weakened team, and find a way to continue their home winning streak, then they will be seen as real heading into MLS’ World Cup break. Curtin and the team have expressed they weren’t happy with the way they drew Red Bull or beat Chicago. It’s time they show their displeasure by sticking it to the teams who are perceived as better than them.

Box Score:

Philadelphia Union:

Andre Blake; Keegan Rosenberry, Mark McKenzie (Jack Elliott 61’), Auston Trusty, Raymon Gaddis; Haris Medunjanin, Alejandro Bedoya; Ilsinho (Marcus Epps 69’), Borek Dockal, David Accam (CJ Sapong 81’); Cory Burke

Substitutes not used: John McCarthy; Fabinho, Warren Creavalle, Anthony Fontana

Chicago Fire:

Patrick McLain; Daniel Johnson (Luis Solignac 64’), Johan Kappelhof, Kevin Ellis, Brandon Vincent, Jorge Corrales; Tony Tchani, Bastian Schweinsteiger (Drew Conner 88’), Brandt Bronico; Alan Gordon (Mo Adams 88’), Aleksandar Katai

Substitutes not used: Richard Sanchez; Jonathan Campbell, Rafael Ramos, Grant Lillard