All-time record: 8–8–4
At Talen Energy Stadium/The Linc: 6–3–0
At RFK Stadium: 2–5–4
Goals for: 30
Goals against: 25
Did you know…
Philadelphia’s four goal win in their last match against D.C. tied the team record for largest margin of victory. The Union previously accomplished this on three occasions: May 28, 2011 at Toronto: 6-2; June 23, 2012 vs. Kansas City: 4-0; August 13, 2016 at New England: 4-0.
May 13, 2017: D.C. United 0-4 Philadelphia Union
PSP Match Report Highlights
Four different Union players — Haris Medunjanin, Oguchi Onyewu, Fafa Picault, and Fabian Herbers — scored their first goals of the season. A reckless red card from Luciano Acosta opened up the game in the second half and allowed Philadelphia to stretch their 1-0 lead to the final 4-0 scoreline.
Haris Medunjanin broke the deadlock and opened his MLS account with a rocket-like strike in the 39th minute. Medunjanin found himself dead center of the park 25 yards from goal, took a touch, and uncorked a shot so powerful it looked like it could have reached the sun.
A rush of blood to the head of Luciano Acosta reduced the home team to 10 men. Feeling that he had been fouled by Onyewu, Acosta immediately scythed down Ilsinho, and Penso did not hesitate to flash straight red to D.C.’s diminutive no. 10.
Substitute Fabian Herbers added insult to injury with his first goal of the year, possibly the best of the four on the evening. Bedoya cut the ball back to him near the top of the box, and Herbers unleashed a one-time crack that found the far corner of Hamid’s goal.
PSP Match Analysis Highlights
A standout performance from potential MLS Player of the Week Haris Medunjanin was one highlight among many, but tactical cracks remain even as rising confidence smooths the rough edges that led to an early season slump.
Union fans finally got to see what it looks like when the opposition can’t put quick pressure on Medunjanin. The big midfielder’s passing range often overshadows his creativity, but on Saturday both deserved their own spotlight. Freed up to move vertically by D.C.’s inability to attack through the center, Medunjanin could advance the ball with his feet, move it wide, or play deep, needling makeshift right back Steve Birnbaum.
As the Union’s midfield gains in coordination and defensive effectiveness, one question looms large: Can this team compete with minimal input from the 10 position? And not minimal input in terms of goals, since Roland Alberg certainly may contribute his share, but, instead, in terms of influence on the rest of the game.
PSP Player Ratings Highlights
On Haris Medunjanin — In his young MLS career, Medunjanin has often showed his quality in bits – precise passes, set piece deliveries, or free kicks that exhibit what he’s capable of. On Saturday night, Medunjanin put together an incredibly complete game for 90 minutes, doing everything he was signed for with skill, style, and panache.
On Jack Elliott — Elliott continues to show his terrific instinct for the game, stepping up and cutting off numerous D.C. attacks before they could even begin. His passing and vision out of the back continue to be huge assets. A truly veteran-like performance from the rookie.
Link to MLS Match Center for Stats, Chalkboard, and more
Philadelphia Union
Andre Blake, Ray Gaddis, Oguchi Onyewu, Jack Elliott, Fabinho, Fafa Picault (Jay Simpson 80′), Ilsinho (Fabian Herbers 64′), Alejandro Bedoya, Haris Medunjanin, Chris Pontius (Warren Creavalle 73′), C.J. Sapong
Unused Subs: John McCarthy, Richie Marquez, Keegan Rosenberry, Adam Najem
D.C. United
Bill Hamid, Taylor Kemp, Bobby Boswell, Kofi Opare (Chris Korb 53′), Steve Birnbaum, Jared Jeffrey (Marcelo Sarvas HT), Lloyd Sam, Ian Harkes, Luciano Acosta, Lamar Neagle, Patrick Mullins (Sebastien Le Toux 77′)
Unused subs: Travis Worra, Chris Korb, Jalen Robinson, Chris Odol-Atsem, Marcelo Sarvas, Jose Guillermo Ortiz
Scoring summary
PHI: Haris Medunjanin (Chris Pontius) — 39′
PHI: Oguchi Onyewu (Haris Medunjanin) — 64′
PHI: Fafa Picault (Haris Medunjanin) — 78′
PHI: Fabian Herbers (Alejandro Bedoya) — 88′
Disciplinary summary
PHI: Fabinho – 4′ (unsporting behavior)
PHI: Alejandro Bedoya — 9′ (unsporting behavior)
DC: Lamar Neagle — 19′ (unsporting behavior)
DC: Luciano Acosta — 66′ (straight red) (serious foul)
DC: Marcelo — 64′ (dissent)
April 1, 2017: D.C. United 2-1 Philadelphia Union
PSP Match Report Highlights
D.C. took the lead when the Union dug a hole for themselves deep in their own half. Andre Blake tried to swing the ball across to Fabinho but overhit the pass badly. Fabinho leaped to keep the ball in play but only succeeded in knocking it down for Patrick Nyarko. United’s winger cut inside and fed Ortiz, who turned and fired a shot that deflected off Richie Marquez and bounded over Blake.
United doubled their lead from the penalty spot in the 27th minute. Acosta stepped up to lash the ball past Blake — who guessed correctly to his right — and into the corner. The penalty resulted from a tight handball call on Richie Marquez just inside the box.
Jim Curtin turned to C.J. Sapong in the 59th minute, and the striker sparked the Union to life as he scored his third goal of the season following up a shot from Alejandro Bedoya. Ilsinho broke toward the box down the right channel and played into the feet of Derrick Jones. The ball popped free, but Bedoya was on hand to collect it and lace a shot toward the far corner. Hamid knocked it down, but Sapong was on hand to blast home.
PSP Match Analysis Highlights
It was, in all honesty, only a matter of time before Andre Blake’s distribution issues directly cost his team a goal. Blake appears far more confident in the air this season, but he is every bit as poor with his feet as he was in 2016. Though many of Blake’s rolling kicks cost possession or fail to clear the half line, Saturday’s mishit pass to Fabinho directly led to D.C. United’s opener.
Against D.C., Philly let large gaps develop between midfield and defense. At times, this was due to poor communication in midfield, but it was often because the center backs were quick to backpedal, even when the ball carrier was under pressure and the defense should have been compact.
It all came together when Sapong replaced Simpson and put in one of his best shifts since the spring of 2016. More than just collecting his third goal of the year, Sapong was surprisingly willing to drop off his defender and provide the outlet when Sarvas tracked runners through his zone.
PSP Player Ratings Highlights
On C.J. Sapong — The striker scored his third goal in the last three games. More importantly, he elevated the game of his teammates. There was an edge to his game. Maybe he was fueled by Curtin’s decision to start Simpson. If a player is going to earn a place in the starting 11, it is through performances like this.
On Bill Hamid — Despite Sapong’s efforts, D.C. United earned the victory because of Hamid’s. The veteran goalkeeper made seven saves and was the best defense for a team primarily interested in defending.
Link to MLS Match Center for Stats, Chalkboard and more
Philadelphia Union
Andre Blake, Fabinho, Richie Marquez (Jack Elliott 46′), Oguchi Onyewu, Keegan Rosenberry, Derrick Jones, Haris Medunjanin, Ilsinho (Fabian Herbers 76′), Alejandro Bedoya, Chris Pontius , Jay Simpson (C.J. Sapong 59′)
Unused Subs: Jake McGuire, Ray Gaddis, Roland Alberg, Warren Creavalle
DC United
Bill Hamid; Nick DeLeon, Steve Birnbaum, Bobby Boswell, Taylor Kemp; Marcelo Sarvas; Luciano Acosta (Jared Jeffrey 89′), Ian Harkes; Lloyd Sam (Sean Franklin 80′), Patrick Nyarko, Jose Guillermo Ortiz (Lamar Neagle 70′)
Unused subs: Travis Worra, Julian Buescher, Sebastien Le Toux, Kofi Opare
Scoring summary
DC: Jose Guillermo Ortiz — 18′ (Patrick Nyarko)
DC: Luciano Acosta — 27′ (penalty)
PHI: CJ Sapong — 71′
Disciplinary summary
PHI: Ilsinho — 57′ (simulation)
PHI: Derrick Jones— 61′ (dissent)
DC: Marcelo Sarvas — 66′ (Unsporting behavior)
August 6, 2016: DC United 2-2 Philadelphia Union
PSP Match Report Highlights
An unmarked Steve Birnbaum headed in at the back post in the 4th minute of second half stoppage time to give D.C. United a share of the points after the Union looked to be on their way to their first road win since March.
Former United man Chris Pontius gave the Union a 2-1 lead with his 9th goal of the season in the 57th minute after Tranquillo Barnetta and Taylor Kemp traded first half goals. But with pressure building toward the end of the game, the Philadelphia defense couldn’t hold and Birnbaum’s header salvaged a draw for the home side.
PSP Analysis and Player Ratings Highlights
The Union had no composure and no organization. They had, perhaps most disturbingly, no maturity. The defense that has played above their age and experience much of the season struggled to move the ball all night, and it came back to cost them at the end.
It was a match in which Ilsinho was largely a weak spot, but looked to have set up the winner with a strong individual defensive play. It was a match in which Ken Tribbett had a howler of a first half but recovered to play a solid second 45. However, it was, for most of the second half, a good bad match.
PSP Postgame Video and Quote Sheet
Link to MLS Match Center for Stats, Chalkboard and more
Philadelphia Union
Andre Blake, Fabinho, Richie Marquez, Ken Tribbett, Keegan Rosenberry, Brian Carroll (Warren Crevalle 45′), Tranquillo Barnetta, Fabian Herbers (Walter Restrepo 70′), Ilsinho, Chris Pontius (Charlie Davies 80′), C.J. Sapong
Unused Subs: John McCarthy, Ray Gaddis, Joshua Yaro, Roland Alberg
D.C. United
Bill Hamid, Sean Franklin, Steve Birnbaum, Bobby Boswell, Taylor Kemp, Rob Vincent, Lloyd Sam (Lamar Neagle 62′), Nick DeLeon (Julian Buescher 76′), Luciano Acosta, Patrick Nyarko, Patrick Mullins (Kennedy Igboananike 70′)
Unused subs: Travis Worra, Jalen Robinson, Kofi Opare, Alvaro Saborio
Scoring Summary
DC: Taylor Kemp — 16′
PHI: Tranquillo Barnetta — 45+1′
PHI: Chris Pontius (Ilsinho) — 57′
DC: Steve Birnbaum (Patrick Nyarko) –90+4′
Disciplinary Summary
PHI: Richie Marquez (unsporting behavior) — 5′
DC: Luciano Acosta (unsporting behavior) — 59′
PHI: Ken Tribbett (unsporting behavior) — 63′
July 9, 2016: Philadelphia Union 3-0 DC United
PSP Match Report Highlights
Philadelphia Union got back to their winning ways with a 3-0 triumph over DC United in Chester Saturday night.
Two first half penalties gave the Union a cushion that they built on through Ilsinho’s gorgeous half-volley two minutes into the second half. Andre Blake made a number of big saves to preserve the shutout, but the gulf of quality between the sides was clear from the outset; it was a dominant performance.
PSP Analysis and Player Ratings Highlights
Philadelphia Union’s 3-0 win over DC United was as much a victory over the past as it was a win over a bitter rival. For ninety minutes, the Union executed their style of football at a high level while DC came out of the gate with energy but little shape. DC United lacked both by the time the Union took a two-goal lead at the end of the first half.
If there is a word to describe Philly’s dominance, it is… comprehensive.
Now, to be sure, the Union were far from perfect. But they did not need to reach such lofty goals when their opponent offered such limp resistance.
PSP Postgame Video and Quote Sheet
Link to MLS Match Center for Stats, Chalkboard and more
Philadelphia Union
Andre Blake, Fabinho, Richie Marquez, Ken Tribbett, Keegan Rosenberry, Brian Carroll, Tranquillo Barnetta, Ilsinho (Le Toux 68′), Chris Pontius, Roland Alberg (Creavalle 71′), CJ Sapong (Herbers 79′)
Unused Subs: Matt Jones, Ray Gaddis, Anderson, Leo Fernandes
DC United
Bill Hamid, Sean Franklin, Kofi Opare, Steve Birnbaum, Tayler Kemp, Marcelo Sarvas, Nick DeLeon (Acosta 64′), Jared Jeffrey, Fabian Espindola, Lamar Neagle (Boswell 68′), Alhaji Kamara (Saborio 57′)
Unused Subs: Travis Worra, Jalen Robinson, Lloyd Sam, Rob Vincent
Scoring Summary
PHI: Alberg (penalty) — 20′
PHI: Ilsinho (penalty) — 37′
PHI: Ilsinho — 47′
Disciplinary Summary
DC: Opare (Unsporting behavior) — 19′
DC: Opare (red; unsporting behavior) — 65′
May 20, 2016: Philadelphia Union 1-0 DC United
PSP Match Report Highlights
Richie Marquez scored the game’s only goal — the first of his career — in second half stoppage time as the Philadelphia Union defeated D.C. United 1-0 on Friday night in Chester.
Marquez swept in Sebastien Le Toux’s lofted cross at the back post just before the final whistle to earn three points in a dour match that saw few chances for either side.
PSP Analysis and Player Ratings Highlights
Philadelphia Union fans are following a winning team for the first time since 2011.
Nearly just as important: They are following an exciting team. The Union’s defense has been suffocating, and their possession game is much improved from a year ago. The result? Even when Philly struggles to score, matches tend to have a kinetic energy which suggests that at any moment, the Union could attack. Now, they have not been particularly good at turning those breaks into big chances, but the prospect alone is enough to hold attention.
PSP Postgame Video and Quote Sheet
Link to MLS Match Center for Stats, Chalkboard and more
Philadelphia Union
Andre Blake, Keegan Rosenberry, Josh Yaro, Richie Marquez, Fabinho (Ray Gaddis 71′), Warren Creavalle (Roland Alberg 87′), Brian Carroll, Tranquillo Barnetta, Chris Pontius (Fabian Herbers 64′), Sebastien Le Toux, C.J. Sapong
Unused Subs: Matt Jones, Ken Tribbett, Leo Fernandes, Walter Restrepo
D.C. United
Travis Worra, Steve Birnbaum, Bobby Boswell, Taylor Kemp, Sean Franklin, Marcelo Sarvas, Nick DeLeon, Lamar Neagle (Jared Jeffrey 81′), Patrick Nyarko, Luciano Acosta (Julian Buescher 61′), Alvaro Saborio (Fabian Espindola 77′)
Unused Subs: Tally Hall, Rob Vincent, Luke Mishu, Kofi Opare
Scoring Summary
PHL: Richie Marquez (Sebastien Le Toux, Josh Yaro) – 90+1′
Disciplinary Summary
DC: Patrick Nyarko (dangerous play) – 45+1′
DC: Steve Birnbaum (unsporting behavior) – 53′
PHL: Tranquillo Barnetta (unsporting behavior) – 80′
PHL: Ray Gaddis (unsporting behavior) – 83′
PHL: Richie Marquez (unsporting behavior) – 90+2′
July 26, 2015: DC United 3-2 Philadelphia Union
PSP Match Report Highlights
After starting incredibly well, scoring two goals in the first four minutes, the Union eventually gave up three of their own, falling prey to the boa-constrictor-like grip of DC United. CJ Sapong and Sebastien Le Toux scored early, but DC would claw back through goals from new acquisition Alvaro Saborio, Nick DeLeon, and Fabian Espindola.
PSP Analysis and Player Ratings Highlights
There are a lot of words that could describe the Philadelphia Union’s 3-2 loss to DC United Sunday. Frustrating and disappointing come quickly to mind.
But the one that fans, coaches, and players cannot escape is much worse: Inevitable.
From the moment the Union went up 2-0 in the fourth minute, a sense of confusion arose, which quickly gave way to uncertainty, dread and after Nick DeLeon’s tying goal in the 66th minute, inevitability.
Philadelphia was the better team for 35 minutes to open Sunday’s match, but they were the lesser team at the final whistle.
Link to MLS Match Center for Stats, Chalkboard and more
Philadelphia Union
Brian Sylvestre, Fabinho, Maurice Edu, Ethan White, Ray Gaddis, Brian Carroll, Zach Pfeffer (Fred, 67), Cristian Maidana (Vincent Nogueira, 80) , Sebastien Le Toux, Eric Ayuk (Fernando Aristeguieta, 80), CJ Sapong
Unused Subs: John McCarthy, Steven Vitoria, Fred, Jimmy McLaughlin, Conor Casey
DC United
Andrew Dykstra, Bobby Boswell, Chris Korb, Steve Birnbaum, Taylor Kemp, Chis Rolf (Miguel Aguilar, 76), Davy Arnaud, Nick DeLeon, Perry Kitchen, Fabian Espindola (Conor Doyle, 89), Álvaro Saborio (Jairo Arrieta, 81)
Unused Subs: Alex Bono, Warren Creavalle, Clement Simonin, Daniel Lovitz, Robbie Findley
Scoring Summary
PHI: CJ Sapong (Cristian Maidana) – 1
PHI: Sebastien Le Toux (Zach Pfeffer) – 4
DC: Álvaro Saborio (Chris Korb, Nick DeLeon)- 37
DC: Nick DeLeon – 66
DC: Fabian Espindola (Chris Korb) – 79′
Disciplinary Summary
PHI: Eric Ayuk (Foul) – 68′
May 30, 2015: DC United 2-1 Philadelphia Union
PSP Match Report Highlights
Chris Rolfe converted a second half penalty and D.C. United defeated Philadelphia Union 2-1 on Saturday night at RFK Stadium.
Sebastien Le Toux gave the Union an early lead, scoring his first goal of the season in just the 5th minute. But Chris Pontius equalized just before the halftime whistle, nodding in a cross from Taylor Kemp.
Zach Pfeffer was whistled for a handball when challenging for a high cross in the 85th minute, and Chris Rolfe slammed his penalty past Brian Sylvestre to give United all three points and end Philly’s winning streak at two.
PSP Analysis and Player Ratings Highlights
If Philadelphia Union had opened the season with anything more than a total bellyflop, Saturday’s match would mean little. A fluky road loss against a good squad with an embarrassingly poor referee in the middle? Those games happen in MLS. You move on.
But a 1-7-3 start means dropped points – however fluky – are magnified the rest of the way.
Link to MLS Match Center for Stats, Chalkboard and more
Philadelphia Union
Brian Sylvestre, Sheanon Williams, Richie Marquez, Maurice Edu, Fabinho, Brian Carroll, Vincent Nogueira, Cristian Maidana, Andrew Wenger (Zach Pfeffer 80′), Sebastien Le Toux (Eric Ayuk 89′), Fernando Aristeguieta (C.J. Sapong 72′)
Unused Subs: John McCarthy, Ray Gaddis, Ethan White, Fred
DC United
Bill Hamid, Taylor Kemp (Chris Korb 72′), Kofi Opare, Steven Birnbaum, Bobby Boswell, Sean Franklin, Chris Pontius (Miguel Aguilar 75′), Davy Arnaud, Perry Kitchen, Nick DeLeon, Conor Doyle (Jairo Arrieta 65′), Chris Rolfe
Unused Subs Andrew Dykstra, Kofi Opare, Chris Korb, Markus Halsti, Facundo Coria
Scoring Summary
PHI: Sebastien Le Toux (Andrew Wenger) — 5
DC: Chris Pontius (Taylor Kemp) – 45
DC: Chris Rolfe (PK) – 85
Disciplinary Summary
DC: Conor Doyle(foul) — 42
DC: Bobby Boswell (foul) — 59
PHI: Vincent Nogueira (foul) – 63
DC: Chris Pontius (foul) – 64
May 17, 2015: Philadelphia Union 1-0 DC United
PSP Match Report Highlights
Zach Pfeffer scored a stoppage time winner and Philadelphia Union kept their second clean sheet of the season, topping Eastern Conference leaders DC United 1-0 Sunday night at PPL Park.
The lone goal of the match came in the second minute of added time as Pfeffer coolly finished a good cross from Fabinho that Sebastien Le Toux smartly dummied. On-loan goalkeeper Brian Sylvestre did not need to make a save to earn his first career MLS win and shutout.
PSP Analysis and Player Ratings Highlights
A tired DC United squad, content following a come-from-behind midweek victory over Orlando, overlooked the Union as they arrived at PPL Park assuming they could get a result. Fielding a number of reserve players, Ben Olsen’s side expected to control the middle of pitch, make the most of their chances on the counterattack and see what Chris Rolfe could conjure against the Union’s highly suspect backline.
But Curtin matched Olsen’s combative, veteran side with one of his own, turning to Conor Casey, Brian Carroll, and Sebastien Le Toux – heady players who have seen everything in MLS and know how to slog out a result, when necessary. And while the Union grew more dangerous throughout the match the deeper United shrank into their defense shell, it was still a slog. The cheap turnovers, slow decision making, and passing inaccuracies that have plagued the Union throughout 2015 looked set to cost Philadelphia two points when, after Miguel Aguilar’s 50th minute shot careened back off the post, it appeared clear that DC had little spark left in their legs.
Credit goes to both the Union and their manager though, since unlike in previous games, it was two of Jim Curtin’s substitutes who not only combined to score the winner, but also helped the hosts turn the screws against DC once it became clear that only one team in the building was looking for a victory.
Link to MLS Match Center for Stats, Chalkboard and more
Philadelphia Union
Brian Sylvestre, Sheanon Williams, Ethan White, Maurice Edu, Raymon Gaddis (Fabinho 58′), Brian Carroll, Vincent Nogueira (Eric Ayuk 87′), Cristian Maidana, Andrew Wenger (Zach Pfeffer 71′), Sebastien Le Toux, Conor Casey
Unused Subs: John McCarthy, Raymond Lee, Antoine Hoppenot, Jimmy McLaughlin
DC United
Bill Hamid, Taylor Kemp, Kofi Opare, Chris Korb, Bobby Boswell, Marcus Halsti (Davy Arnaud 80′), Michael Farfan, Miguel Aguilar (Luis Silva 65′), Perry Kitchen, Chris Rolfe, Jairo Arrieta (Chris Pontius 59′)
Unused Subs Andrew Dykstra, Luis Silva, Sean Franklin, Steve Birnbaum, Conor Doyle
Scoring Summary
PHI: Zach Pfeffer — 90+2
Disciplinary Summary
PHI: Sheanon Williams (foul) — 31
DC: Taylor Kemp (foul) — 65
PHI: Ethan White (foul) – 79
PHI: Maurice Edu (foul) – 90
September 27, 2014: DC United 1-0 Philadelphia Union
PSP Match Report Highlights
Luis Silva nodded in a Chris Korb cross in the 10th minute and Philadelphia Union failed to score for the second straight game, going down 1-0 in defeat to DC United on Saturday afternoon in the nation’s capital.
Both teams had chances — with Bill Hamid and Carlos Valdes respectively coming up big — but a disjointed match produced no dominant performances.
PSP Player Ratings and Analysis Highlights
A worst case scenario for Philadelphia Union’s trip to conference leaders DC United: 4-0? 5-0?
But psychologically, going down 1-0 on a soft goal, then failing to mount any sustained pressure for 80 minutes has to feel just as bad as a blowout.
Link to MLS Match Center for Stats, Chalkboard and more
Philadelphia Union
Rais Mbolhi, Ray Gaddis, Carlos Valdes (Pedro Ribeiro 82′), Maurice Edu, Sheanon Williams, Amobi Okugo, Cristian Maidana, Vincent Nogueira, Andrew Wenger, Sebastien Le Toux (Danny Cruz 22′), Conor Casey (Brian Brown 63′)
Unused substitutes: Zac MacMath, Fred, Fabinho, Brian Carroll
DC United
Bill Hamid, Chris Korb (Chris Pontius 61′), Bobby Boswell, Steve Birnbaum, Taylor Kemp, Sean Franklin, Davy Arnaud, Perry Kitchen, Nick DeLeon, Fabian Espindola (Lewis Neal 85′), Luis Silva (Eddie Johnson 68′)
Unused substitutes: Joe Willis, Kofi Opare, Samuel Inkoom, Jared Jeffrey
Scoring Summary
10 – Silva (Korb)
Discipline Summary
86 – DC: Kitchen (caution)
90 – PHI: Edu (caution)
Referee: Silviu Petrescu. AR1 (bench): Claudio Badea; AR2 (opposite): Adam Wienckowski; 4th: Marcos de Oliveira
May 10, 2014: Philadelphia Union 0-1 DC United
PSP Match Report Highlights
After conceding in the sixth minute, Philadelphia Union chased DC United with no success and fell 1-0 at PPL Park.
The winless streak isn’t the only increasing streak. It has now been 370 minutes since the Union scored a goal, the last being Sebastien Le Toux’s penalty kick in the 2-1 loss to New York on April 16. It is now 485 minutes since the last Union goal in open play, with Andrew Wenger’s scoring in the 55th minute of the 2-2 draw with Real Salt Lake on April 12. That’s eight hours and 5 minutes without a goal from open play.
PSP Player Ratings and Analysis Highlights
So maybe the 4-3-1-2 wasn’t such a good idea after all.
Fast forward one week from when Philadelphia Union found space and time against a Seattle side whose mission was to get forward at all costs, and the Union were back to looking ponderously slow and uncertain in the face of DC’s defensive organization.
Of course, conceding within six minutes was never going to make the task easier for the Union. Chris Rolfe’s early strike afforded DC the ability to sit back and defend their lead on the road. Outside of Andrew Wenger’s superb turn in the 64th minute (a chance that developed through a DC turnover rather than Union build-up play), the Union rarely looked capable of finding a breakthrough.
PSP Postgame Video and Quotesheet
Link to MLS Match Center for Stats, Chalkboard and more
Philadelphia Union
Zac MacMath; Ray Gaddis, Amobi Okugo, Austin Berry (Leo Fernandes ’84), Fabinho; Vincent Nogueira, Brian Carroll (Danny Cruz ’46), Cristian Maidana, Maurice Edu; Conor Casey (Sebastien Le Toux ’73), Andrew Wenger
Unused substitutes: Andre Blake, Sheanon Williams, Aaron Wheeler, Corben Bone
DC United
Bill Hamid; Chris Korb, Bobby Boswell, Jeff Parke, Cristian Fernandez; Lewis Neal (Alex Caskey ’75), Perry Kitchen, Davy Arnaud, Chris Rolfe; Eddie Johnson (Conor Doyle ’84), Fabian Espindola (Luis Silva ’88)
Unused substitutes: Andrew Dykstra, Nana Attakora, Steve Birnbaum, Jared Jeffrey
Scoring Summary
6′ – DCU: Rolfe (Cristian)
Discipline Summary
32′ – DCU: Kitchen (caution)
68′ – DCU: Korb (caution)
78′ – DCU: Arnaud (caution)
Referee: Geoff Gamble
Attendance: 18522
October 12, 2013: DC United 1-1 Philadelphia Union
PSP Match Report Highlights
Despite being outplayed almost wire to wire, the Union stole a point at RFK as Jack McInerney scored his first goal since June 1.
Unable to cope with the conditions and DC’s first half composure, the Union fell behind when Nick DeLeon hammered home the opener in the 36th minute. United had chances to put the match out of reach but, between the reflexes of Zac MacMath and poor finishing, the hosts were unable to double their advantage.
That set the stage for McInerney, who snuck in on the back post to power home his header after Kleberson looped his cross over the helpless defense.
PSP Player Ratings and Analysis Highlights
The Union failed to get the job done against a DC side further depleted by injuries and international call-ups. Playing in a similarly conservative alignment to when they went on the road and eked out a fortuitous victory at Sporting Kansas City, the Union never looked like winning the match and only looked like tying it in the final quarter of an hour when urgency finally set in. Further concerning for fans desperate for a postseason appearance, the Union hardly looked up for the match. An opportunity to pound your biggest rivals while also strengthening your own playoff credentials should have had the Union buzzing. For whatever reason though, the visitors arrived at RFK lacking the energy and preparation to take control of the match from the opening whistle.
Link to MLS Match Center for Stats, Chalkboard and more
Philadelphia Union
Zac MacMath; Sebastien Le Toux (Matt Kassel ’16; Jack McInerney ’73), Amobi Okugo, Jeff Parke, Ray Gaddis; Danny Cruz, Brian Carroll, Kleberson, Keon Daniel (Antoine Hoppenot ’46), Michael Farfan; Conor Casey
Unused substitutes: Oka Nikolov, Gilberto, Leo Fernandes, Aaron Wheeler
DC United
Bill Hamid; Dennis Iapichino, Daniel Woolard, Perry Kitchen, Chris Korb; Lewis Neal, Jared Jeffrey, Nick DeLeon (Sainey Nyassi ’70); Luis Silva (Kyle Porter ’67), Chris Pontius, Conor Doyle (Lionard Pajoy ’87)
Unused substitutes: Joe Willis, Collin Martin, Michael Seaton, Conor Shanosky
Scoring Summary
36 – DCU: DeLeon (Neal)
90 – PHI: McInerney (Kleberson)
Discipline Summary
79 – PHI: Farfan (caution)
90 – PHI: McInerney (caution)
Referee: Edvin Jurisevic
Attendance: 11213
August 10, 2013: Philadelphia Union 2-0 DC United
PSP Match Report Highlights
“The Union coasted to an efficient 2-0 win over an undermanned DC United on the back of two Conor Casey goals Saturday night at PPL Park.
“Casey tallied on either side of halftime with Fabinho and Sheanon Williams providing service from the wings for each goal. The victory moved Philadelphia back into third place, six points clear of sixth place with 10 games left to play.”
PSP Player Ratings and Analysis Highlights
“What makes the Union offense successful?
“Look beyond the abstract arguments that focus on “good goal scorers,” “noses for goal,” and guys that just, “know how to score.” Focus instead on two strikers who move off the ball as well as any partners in MLS. Look at the way Jack McInerney’s front post runs draw defenders as Conor Casey ghosts in at the back post for a finish. Pay attention to the way each striker isolates a fullback and seeks to turn away from pressure.”
“This is a new reality for Union fans: Two strikers who work well together to open space and stretch defenses apart. Jack McInerney’s goal drought is lamentable, but his involvement in other aspects of the game continues to open spaces for his veteran companion’s devious movement. Philadelphia has many issues, but as long as they have two strikers who can act as playmaker to each other, they will be able to challenge for a spot in the Eastern Conference playoffs.”
Link to MLS Match Center for Stats, Chalkboard and more
Philadelphia Union
Zac MacMath, Fabinho, Jeff Parke, Amobi Okugo, Sheanon Williams, Brian Carroll, Danny Cruz (Michael Farfan 69′), Keon Daniel, Sebastien Le Toux (Michael Lahoud 90+2), Conor Casey (Aaron Wheeler 85′), Jack McInerney
Unused substitutes: Chris Konopka, Kleberson, Matt Kassel, Antoine Hoppenot
DC United
Bill Hamid, Ethan White, Conor Shanosky, Chris Korb, James Riley, Collin Martin (Michael Seaton 76′), Perry Kitchen, Taylor Kemp, Jared Jeffrey, Kyle Porter (Dwayne De Rosario 45′), Conor Doyle
Unused substitutes: Daniel Woolard, Dejan Jakovic. Joe Willis, John Thorrington
Scoring Summary
PHI – 35′ – Conor Casey (Sebastien Le Toux, Sheanon Williams)
PHI – 75′ – Conor Casey (Fabinho, Sebastien Le Toux)
Disciplinary Summary
PHI – 56′ – Amobi Okugo (Foul)
PHI – 61′ – Sheanon Williams (Foul)
PHI – 62′ – Danny Cruz (Encroachment)
DC – 81′ – James Riley (Foul)
Referee: Hilario Grajeda
Attendance: 18652
April 21, 2013: DC United 2-3 Philadelphia Union
PSP Match Report Highlights
“The Union nudged into the top half of the Eastern Conference table, thanks to a Jack McInerney brace and a goal from Conor Casey. United held possession for two-thirds of the game but never could overcome a Union side that repeatedly hurt D.C. on the counterattack…
“On the day, United outshot the Union 13 to 12, but four of those United shots came from long distance courtesy of center back Brandon McDonald, with only one on goal. United dominated possession, but the game went precisely how the Union prepared for it in training during the week.”
PSP Player Ratings and Analysis Highlights
“Union manager John Hackworth has talked about wanting to play possession soccer. At home, they try to do just that.
“On the road, no such effort is made. The Union become a counterattacking team, content to sit deep and wait for opponents to make a mistake upon which they can seize. This was evident Sunday against D.C. United, when Philadelphia demolished United on the counterattack.”
Link to MLS Match Center for Stats, Chalkboard and more.
Lineups
Philadelphia: Zac MacMath, Sheanon Williams, Amobi Okugo, Jeff Parke, Raymon Gaddis, Brian Carroll, Danny Cruz (Gabriel Farfan ’87), Keon Daniel, Michael Farfan (Michael Lahoud ’68), Conor Casey, Jack McInerney (Antoine Hoppenot ’77)
D.C. United: Bill Hamid, Chris Korb, Brandon McDonald, Dejan Jakovic, Daniel Woolard (Carlos Ruiz ’70), Perry Kitchen, Kyle Porter, Marcelo Saragosa (Raphael Augusto ’46, Robbie Russell ’84), Chris Pontius, Dwayne De Rosario, Lionard Pajoy
Scoring summary
7: PHI- McInerney (assisted by Casey)
11: PHI- Casey (Cruz)
17: DC – Kitchen (De Rosario, McDonald)
26: PHI – McInerney (Okugo, Williams)
47: DC – Pajoy (Woolard)
Discipline summary
66: DC – Jakovic (foul)
92: PHI – Casey (time wasting)
Referee: Hilario Grajeda
Attendance: 12349
September 20, 2012: Philadelphia Union 0-1 DC United
PSP Match Report Highlights
“It was a former Philadelphia Union striker, Lionard Pajoy, who scored the lone goal Thursday night, condemning his former club to their eighth straight match without a win.”
“With Gomez and Daniel sitting too deep in midfield, McInerney was forced into an attacking center midfield role as he tried to be the creator the Union so desperately required.”
PSP Player Ratings and Analysis Highlights
“John Hackworth’s latest tactical shift, done in the name of generating more offense, proved, in practice, to do just the opposite.”
“Gabriel Gomez and Keon Daniel lacked the speed, accuracy and quality to set the table for the Union’s three forwards. With the ball failing to make its way forward, Jack McInerney was forced to drop deeper into midfield, turning provider for Antoine Hoppenot and Danny Cruz, a new look for the Union, and certainly not what the coaching staff would have drawn up in the locker room.”
Link to MLS Match Center for Stats, Chalkboard and more.
Scoring Summary
67 – DCU: Pajoy (Pontius)
Discipline Summary
None
Referee
Baldomero Toledo
Philadelphia Union
Zac MacMath; Sheanon Williams, Amobi Okugo, Carlos Valdes, Gabriel Farfan (Chandler Hoffman 70); Brian Carroll, Gabriel Gomez (Freddy Adu ’77), Keon Daniel; Danny Cruz, Jack McInerney, Antoine Hoppenot (Josue Martinez ’57)
Unused substitutes: Chase Harrison, Raymon Gaddis, Michael Lahoud, Roger Torres
DC United
Bill Hamid; Andy Najar, Brandon McDonald, Dejan Jakovic, Chris Korb; Chris Pontius, Perry Kitchen, Branko Boskovic (Maicon Santos ’57), Lewis Neal, Chris Pontius; Lionard Pajoy
Unused substitutes: Joe Willis, Robbie Russell, Ethan White, Raphael Augusto, Emiliano Dudar, Hamdi Salihi
August 19, 2012: DC United 1 – 1 Philadelphia Union
PSP Match Report Highlights
“Philadelphia Union drew 1-1 with DC United on Sunday after a series of scuffles, red cards, and controversial referee calls reversed a game that looked like a sure Union loss.”
“Then came the De Rosario penalty kicks and the chaos that would ensue. Stoppage time saw Geiger give a straight red card to United’s Emiliano Dudar after he tackled Antoine Hoppenot from behind, followed by Williams getting a second yellow four minutes later for a sliding tackle on a breakaway.”
PSP Player Ratings and Analysis Highlights
“John Hackworth said it best after the game: These kinds of games may make great TV, but it’s not good soccer.”
“If you want to maintain control of a game, you don’t do it by wasting cautions on something as silly as time-wasting. You give those cards early for the unnecessary elbows and harsh undercuts on aerial challenges so that you protect players’ safety.”
Link to MLS Match Center for Stats, Chalkboard and more.
Scoring summary
8 — PHI: Carroll
71 — DC: Okugo (OG)
Misconduct summary
PHI: ’37, Williams (yellow, time wasting)
PHI: ’44, Lahoud (yellow, foul)
PHI: ’70, McInerney (yellow, foul)
PHI: ’89, G. Farfan (yellow, argument)
DC: ’89, Boskovic (red, argument)
PHI: ’89, Torres (yellow, argument)
DC: ’91, Dudar (red, foul)
PHI: ’95, Williams (yellow/red, foul)
DC: ’96, Hamid (yellow, argument)
Philadelphia Union: Zac MacMath, Sheanon Williams, Amobi Okugo, Carlos Valdes, Gabriel Farfan, Brian Carroll, Michael Lahoud, Michael Farfan, Danny Cruz (Antoine Hoppenot ’58), Jack McInerney (Roger Torres ’80), Freddy Adu (Keon Daniel ’69)
Unused subs: Chase Harrison, Chris Albright, Raymon Gaddis, Chandler Hoffman
D.C. United: Bill Hamid, Dejan Jakovic (Hamdi Salihi ’61), Brandon McDonald, Emiliano Dudar, Chris Korb, Andy Najar, Perry Kitchen, Nick DeLeon, Lionard Pajoy (Branko Boskovic ’58), Dwayne De Rosario (Marcelo Saragosa ’89), Chris Pontius
Unused subs: Joe Willis, Mike Chabala, Ethan White, Long Tan
Referee: The one, the only…Mark “Geiger Counter” Geiger
June 16, 2012: Philadelphia Union 0 – 1 DC United
PSP Match Report Highlights
“In front of a sellout crowd at PPL Park, Philadelphia Union began John Hackworth’s tenure as manager with all the intent, energy and attacking vigor that was previously lacking from their 2012 performances.
“The result, however, was no different as the home side’s inability to convert chances proved costly, with Chris Pontius’ 78th minute strike stealing a 1-0 victory for DC United.”
PSP Player Ratings and Analysis Highlights
“While the Union failed to emerge victorious in the one place that matters most, the scoreboard, they trumped visiting DC United in every other statistical category. In his first match since taking over for Peter Nowak, John Hackworth saw his side complete 90 more passes than their opponents, control the match and create quality chances. Some midweek chatter may focus on the lack of a finishing touch from front men Jack McInerney, Josue Martinez and Antoine Hoppenot, but it would take the harshest critic not to see the promise in the trio that entered the match with only one MLS start in 2012 between them.”
Link to MLS Match Center for Stats, Chalkboard and more.
Scoring Summary:
DC — Chris Pontius (Branko Boskovic) 78
Misconduct Summary:
PHI — Jack McInerney (caution, foul) 26
DC –Dejan Jakovic (caution, foul) 58
PHI — Carlos Valdes (caution, foul) 77
DC — Andy Najar (caution, foul) 81
DC — Bill Hamid (caution, time wasting) 91
D.C. United –Bill Hamid, Daniel Woolard, Dejan Jakovic, Brandon MacDonald, Robbie Russell, Perry Kitchen, Nick DeLeon (Lewis Neal, 61), Andy Najar, Dwayne De Rosario, Chris Pontius (Hamdi Salihi, 81), Maicon Santos (Branko Boskovic, 72)
Philadelphia Union — Zac MacMath, Gabriel Farfan (Jorge Perlaza, 82), Carlos Valdes, Amobi Okugo, Sheanon Williams, Brian Carroll, Michael Lahoud, Freddy Adu, Michael Farfan, Josue Martinez (Antoine Hoppenot, 68), Jack McInerney (Chandler Hoffman, 74)
Referee: Ricardo Salazar
Attendance: 18876
September 29, 2011 Philadelphia Union 3 – 2 DC United
PSP Match Report Highlights
“Michael Farfan scored a brilliant second half winner and Sebastien Le Toux had two goals before half time as the Union moved into second place in the Eastern Conference with an entertaining 3–2 win over DC United.”
“The midfielder played a one-two with Roger Torres 30 yards from goal before calmly finding a shooting lane from just outside the area to drive a brilliant left footed shot into corner of Hamid’s goal.”
PSP Player Ratings and Analysis Highlights
“With 9 goals in his last 8 games, Le Toux is coming into form at the perfect time as Philly looks to clinch a playoff spot in only their second season in the league.”
“Michael seems to have a million tricks in his bag and many of them lead to opportunities for the Union. Has he played himself into a starting role yet? I hope so.”
Link to MLS Match Center for Stats, Chalkboard and more.
Scoring Summary:
PHI — Sebastien Le Toux 9 (unassisted) 4
PHI — Sebastien Le Toux 10 (Michael Farfan 3) 15
DC — Dwayne De Rosario 14 (Austin Da Luz 2) 21
DC — Andy Najar 5 (unassisted) 30
PHI — Michael Farfan 2 (unassisted) 57
Misconduct Summary:
DC — Perry Kitchen (caution; Reckless Foul) 39
DC — Brandon McDonald (caution; Reckless Foul) 70
D.C. United — Bill Hamid, Perry Kitchen, Ethan White, Brandon McDonald, Marc Burch, Andy Najar, Clyde Simms, Stephen King, Austin Da Luz (Blake Brettschneider 73), Dwayne De Rosario (Santino Quaranta 61), Josh Wolff. Substitutes
Substitutes Not Used: Chris Korb, Kurt Morsink, Joseph Ngwenya, Daniel Woolard, Joe Willis.
Philadelphia Union — Zac MacMath, Sheanon Williams (Kyle Nakazawa 80), Carlos Valdes, Danny Califf, Gabriel Farfan, Michael Farfan, Amobi Okugo (Justin Mapp 46), Brian Carroll, Roger Torres (Freddy Adu 60), Veljko Paunovic, Sebastien Le Toux.
Substitutes Not Used: Jack McInerney, Zach Pfeffer, Joe Tait, Chase Harrison.
Referee: Ricardo Salazar
Referee’s Assistants: -Peter Manikowski; Steven Taylor
4th Official: Terry Vaughn
Attendance: 17,963
Time of Game: 1:51
Weather: Clear-and-73-degrees
July 2, 2011 DC United 2- 2 Philadelphia Union
PSP Match Report Highlights
“One point on the road for the Union, and it was all they deserved. Once again this team relied on heart when talent should have been plenty.”
“And once again, the Union let a weaker team dictate play. It’s one thing to live by the counterattack, but it is another to defend without a strong shape and plan.”
PSP Player Ratings and Analysis Highlights
“But the fact remains that in four straight first halves, the Union have been brutally outclassed. While you can argue that the team deserved better in the first half against Chivas, class requires finishing and the Union have finished about as well as I did when my mom served seafood for dinner.”
“So are we happy with this brand of Union soccer? Counterattacking until we fall behind then pressing forward with near-reckless abandon once behind. It’s obvious that they can survive this way. ”
Link to MLS Match Center for Stats, Chalkboard and more.
Scoring Summary:
DC — Josh Wolff 4 (Dwayne De Rosario 1, Andy Najar 3) 44
PHI — own goal (Perry Kitchen) 49
DC — Andy Najar 2 (unassisted) 58
PHI — Carlos Ruiz 5 (Sheanon Williams 2, Sebastien Le Toux 6) 84
Misconduct Summary:
PHI — Jordan Harvey (caution; Tactical Foul) 16
Philadelphia Union — Faryd Mondragon, Sheanon Williams, Danny Califf, Carlos Valdes, Jordan Harvey, Justin Mapp (Jack McInerney 78), Sebastien Le Toux, Brian Carroll, Veljko Paunovic (Gabriel Farfan 66), Danny Mwanga (Keon Daniel 71), Carlos Ruiz.
Substitutes Not Used: Kyle Nakazawa, Amobi Okugo, Roger Torres, Zac MacMath.
D.C. United — Bill Hamid, Perry Kitchen, Ethan White, Brandon McDonald, Daniel Woolard, Andy Najar, Dwayne De Rosario, Clyde Simms, Chris Pontius, Charlie Davies (Blake Brettschneider 57), Josh Wolff (Fred 68).
Substitutes Not Used: Brandon Barklage, Stephen King, Chris Korb, Joseph Ngwenya, Steve Cronin.
Referee: Abiodun Okulaja
Referee’s Assistants: Chris Strickland, Adam Garner
4th Official: Daniel Fitzgerald
Attendance: 13,365
Time of Game: 1:50
Weather: Partly Cloudy and 92 degrees
August 22, 2010: DC United 2 – 0 Philadelphia Union
PSP Match Report Highlights
“The Union fell 2-0 to last place D.C. in an ugly game marred by poor weather, worse playing conditions, and two big mistakes that cost the game.”
“The Union outshot D.C. 10-8 (with only three on goal) and had six corner kicks to just two for D.C., but it didn’t matter as D.C. broke an eight-game winless streak to win their first game in two months.”
Scoring Summary:
DC — Danny Allsopp 3 (unassisted) 22
DC — Danny Allsopp 4 (Andy Najar 1) 63
Misconduct Summary:
DC — Jed Zayner (caution; Reckless Foul) 70
DC — Julius James (caution; Tactical Foul) 92+
Philadelphia Union — Chris Seitz, Juan Diego Gonzalez, Danny Califf, Michael Orozco Fiscal, Jordan Harvey, Sebastien Le Toux, Eduardo Coudet (Kyle Nakazawa 59), Stefani Miglioranzi, Fred (Nick Zimmerman 69), Alejandro Moreno (Justin Mapp 16), Danny Mwanga.
Substitutes Not Used: Cristian Arrieta, Andrew Jacobson, Amobi Okugo, Brad Knighton.
D.C. United — Bill Hamid, Jed Zayner, Dejan Jakovic, Julius James, Marc Burch, Andy Najar, Branko Boskovic (Stephen King 65), Clyde Simms (Kurt Morsink 78), Santino Quaranta, Danny Allsopp (Jaime Moreno 83), Pablo Hernandez.
Substitutes Not Used: Adam Cristman, Devon McTavish, Barry Rice, Troy Perkins.
Referee: Alex Prus
Referee’s Assistants: Craig Lowry; Eric Proctor
4th Official: Jorge Gonzalez
Time of Game: 1:52
Attendance: 12,165
Weather: Cloudy-and-83-degrees
April 10, 2010: Philadelphia Union 3 – 2 DC United
PSP Match Report Highlights
“It was a landmark day for soccer in Philadelphia. A first home game, a first win and a first hat trick for the Union. Frenchman Sebastien Le Toux made it a night to remember a the Linc, bagging three goals with the most clinical of finishes.”
“Who else but Sebastien Le Toux stepped up for the free kick, and curled it home through the space in DC United’s wall, sending the crowd into a frenzy.”
Scoring Summary:
PHI — Sébastien Le Toux 1 (Roger Torres 1, Alejandro Moreno 1) 4
PHI — Sébastien Le Toux 2 (Alejandro Moreno 2) 40
DC — Santino Quaranta 1 (unassisted) 63
DC — Jaime Moreno 1 (unassisted) 70
PHI — Sébastien Le Toux 3 (unassisted) 80
Misconduct Summary:
DC — Rodney Wallace (caution; Reckless Foul) 35
DC — Brandon Barklage (caution; Reckless Tackle) 41
PHI — Cristian Arrieta (caution; Tactical Foul) 60
DC — Danny Allsopp (caution; Reckless Tackle) 66
DC — Santino Quaranta (caution; Tactical Foul) 73
DC — Dejan Jakovic (ejection; Denied Goal Scoring Opportunity (Foul) 78
DC — Adam Cristman (caution; Unsporting Behavior) 89
Referee: Terry Vaughn
Referee’s Assistants: Chris Strickland; Jason Cullum
4th Official: Hilario Grajeda
Weather: Sunny and 63 degrees
Attendance: 34,870
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