Photo courtesy of Philadelphia Union

On a blustery Sunday afternoon game, Philadelphia Union received their first loss of the year against Nashville SC in a 3-1 result at Subaru Park. A disjointed performance overall, Dollar Dog Night was marred by the Sons of Ben throwing their Dollar Dogs on the field, a missed penalty, and an unnecessary red card.

Player Ratings:

Andre Blake – 6

The Union’s all-time appearance leader was hardly at fault for any of Nashville’s goals. Like most of his teammates, he had a few odd moments, such as charging out of the box to attempt a clearance— only to turn around and run back in and collect. Although Nashville only recorded 4 shots on target, Blake made a few ‘invisible saves’ on attempts that were called back for offside or VAR decisions.

Kai Wagner – 7

Despite being part of a backline that shipped 3 goals, Kai put in one of the better performances on the team. He was under fire from the first minute, and took a lot of punishment in this game. Although not all of his attacking moves worked out, it was his corner that created the Union’s only goal. Plus, his defensive contributions were noteworthy, which included winning 4 tackles. 

Jakob Glesnes – 2 

A poor performance from the Norwegian center back. Glesnes looked like burnt toast against the pacy Nashville attackers. What’s more, his passing left a lot to be desired as he made several bad turnovers. Finally, he gave away the penalty for the 3rd goal, although many will feel the decision was harsh.

Olwethu Makhanya – 4 

In terms of what he did in defense and with the ball at his feet, Makhanya has looked like the real deal this season. This game was no exception. He’s young, and with time, he’ll iron out some of his shakier moments. On the whole, the South African defender looks to be worth his U-22 contract. He loses a couple points for his rash red card at the end of the game which will leave an already short-handed Union even more under-manned next week.

Frankie Westfield – 5

Another solid showing from the young Home Grown. Frankie could really be something special. His defensive tenacity and attacking instincts are similar to those of counterpart Kai Wagner. He made a good block on the line that prevented a Nashville goal. He’s still a bit raw— as evidenced when he steps too high— but it’s obvious his ceiling is high.

Danley Jean-Jacques – 4

This was a gritty kind of game from Danley, one that doesn’t really show up on the score sheet. Both he and Lukić seemed to get caught high up the field when the Union lost possession, especially in the first half. Had a good shooting opportunity from a late run, but his attempt from the top of the box was too close to Willis.

Jovan Lukić – 7

Great strike to score, giving the Serbian goals in back to back games. Loved to see how much it meant to him with his passionate celebration. Had some great moments of progressive dribbling and forward passes, but could’ve done more to shield the backline in defense. Got caught in possession a few times.

Daniel Gazdag – 3

One of those quiet games from Gazdag where he was unable to get on the ball much. Had a golden opportunity to tie it up for the Union but his shot from very close range was saved by Willis. 

Quinn Sullivan – 4

Very involved in the first half, but was unable to keep that same level for the entire game. Stepped up to take the penalty with designated taker Gazdag subbed out, but his effort was easily saved by Willis. Interesting to see him on some corner and free kicks but his set-piece deliveries left much to be desired.

Mikael Uhre – 5

A hard-working shift from the Danish striker who made his trademark vertical runs the whole time he was on the field. Uhre had a tough assignment going against Zimmerman and Maher but his pace threatened the Nashville CBs a few times. Got in some good positions but was unable to carve out anything material.

Tai Baribo – 3

A rare game where Baribo struggled to impose himself. Nashville’s defense proved to be tough customers and did a good job of shutting down the prolific striker who also suffered from a lack of service.

Substitutes:

Bruno Damiani – 4

Missed a big chance on the rebound from the saved penalty. Can’t blame him for getting to it first, but he blocked Vassilev from shooting from a better angle. 

Nathan Harriel – 5

While it was great to see Harriel return to the first team after his injury induced absences, it seemed like he was still rusty. Might well have to start at CB next week, so he’ll get an extended look.

Indiana Vassilev – 5

Indiana Jones put in another solid substitute showing. He’s tidy on the ball and was inches away from his first goal. Will likely start next week’s contest.

Chris Donovan – 6

Pretty good cameo from the former Drexel Dragon. He put in a good cross and then intercepted Zimmerman, leading to his drawn foul which won the penalty. 

Alejandro Bedoya – 5

Got about as involved as you’d expect.

Geiger Counter

Pierre-Luc Lauzière – 2 

Yikes. Although Pierre seemed to call a consistent— if persnickety— first half, that all went out the window in the second frame of action. Missed an obvious foul on Sullivan then stuck with his decision after review. Then, he opted to listen to VAR for a soft foul on Mukhtar. Both were frustrating decisions for Union fans, but also seemingly incorrect from a neutral standpoint. 

Regardless, it was disappointing to see such a trashy and childish reaction to the 2nd VAR decision. Even if that call was wrong, there is no reason for fans to throw trash onto the field. It’s disrespectful and gross. Period. 

On the other hand he correctly whistled for a penalty on Lovitz and deservedly issued a red card to Makhanya for ‘violent conduct’.

Player of the Match – Walker Zimmerman

The World Cup veteran was instrumental in shutting down Philadelphia’s attack. He was everywhere on the backline and had an almost uncanny ability to win aerial duels which severely impacted the Union.

What’s Next

Next weekend a short-handed Union will face off with Head Coach Bradley Carnell’s former employer, Saint Louis FC. The Union will be missing several key players due to international duty as well as to suspension. This match will be an early test of Philly’s depth and resolve.