Photo courtesy of Philadelphia Union

In stark contrast to their recent loss against Charlotte, the Boys in Blue largely controlled proceedings in this Leagues Cup rematch. A lockdown defense and a trademark Baribo finish saw the Union come away as 1-0 victors. Let’s get into the ratings.

Player Ratings:

Andre Blake – 7

Clean Sheet. Didn’t even face a shot on target. Regardless, his leadership and experience are so vital to the U’s on-field communication, it shouldn’t surprise anyone that the backline has been playing much better this past few weeks with Blake’s return to the field. The defense has combined for only 1 goal allowed over the last 3 games. 

Kai Wagner – 7

Another solid outing from the attack-minded full back, as usual. Played his part in severely limiting the Crown’s offense. No assists tonight but he was still involved offensively, mainly from set piece delivery. Put a great service on Glesnes’s head near the end of the game but the goal was ruled back for offside.

Jack Elliot – 8

Probably Elliot’s best game of the year. He was everywhere defensively, whether it was winning headers or putting in tackles. Finished as the highest passer which speaks to the more defensive nature of this matchup. Fantastic close down and tackle on Agyemang in the box that practically saved a goal.

Jakob Glesnes- 7

Solid from the Norwegian. Maybe it’s Blake, maybe he’s regaining some old form but either way, it was a very professional, no nonsense performance from Glesnes, except for that one long range attempt ;). Almost assisted the dagger with a nice flick on but for the offside flag.

Olivier Mbaizo- 7

Mbaizo is back with a vengeance. Despite some lackluster performances earlier in the year, the Cameroonian has shaken that rust off and is showing why he was a full time starter not that long ago. Had one or two shaky moments defensively, especially when he was dispossessed in his own final third with only minutes to go in the game. But, overall a good performance. One of those players that can make the whole crowd “ooh” and “ahh” with some of his deft touches despite playing a defensive position.   

Jose Martinez – 7

Martinez has looked red hot since coming back from Copa. Although this wasn’t his best game, he was putting out fires all over the pitch and did a good job linking play between the lines. Played through several knocks. Is now the first player in Union history to be booked BEFORE the game has started.

Alejandro Bedoya – 6

Veteran performance from El Capitán. Didn’t do too much because he didn’t need too. Hardly misplayed a ball all night. Obligatory yellow card and was then shortly subbed out for fresh legs.

Quinn Sullivan – 6

Nice to see the youngster go the full 90 for the first time in a couple weeks. Another guy who you just love to watch play. Maybe the defensive tactics of both teams didn’t quite put him on center stage but he had some moments. Excellent work to beat his defender and find Baribo in the box, too bad it didn’t end up as a goal.

Daniel Gazdag- 7

The Hungarian DP was active and involved throughout the match. While he might not be officially credited with the assist, his pass led to the only Union goal on the night. Unlucky not to ice the game at the death due to a close offside call.

Sam Adeniran – 5

Mixed bag from the new signing. He had a few good opportunities negated by the offside flag. Seemed to be very one footed as well. That being said- had a good involvement in the play leading up to the goal and displayed the ability to create shots for himself in and around the 18. Looking forward to seeing him play after he’s properly integrated into the team.

Tai Baribo – 7

Scored after a good run and movement to lose his marker- something that is becoming a hallmark of his game. Had a great chance in the 2nd half to score another but was denied by a good save from Khalina. He’s been something of a revelation for the Union of late and should be a vital part in their late playoff push.

Substitutes:

Mikael Uhre- 5

Fresh legs up top help the U see the game out. Chased a few long balls down but only really had one chance which he was unable to turn into a shot.

Jesus Bueno – 6

Defensive closer for Bedoya. Saw the win out. Can’t complain there.

Geiger Counter:

Marco Ortiz – 3

Yellow Card happy, booked Martinez before the game even started. Seemed to make inconsistent decisions. Doubt either sets of fans, players, or coaches was happy with the officiating crew on the night.

Player of the Match: Jack Elliot

A real vintage Elliot performance on the night. His passing was good but more importantly, he was locked in defensively. This is what the U have been missing from the Brit. His close down and then tackle on Agyemang early in the second half prevented a goal and was a highlight reel worthy play. 

What’s Next

The Union will return to action this Sunday against Cruz Azul. It should prove to be a tough matchup as despite losing in the Apertura Final against Club America, Cruz Azul have started the Clausura undefeated with 3 wins and 1 draw, scoring 9 goals and only allowing 1.