Starting XI:

Andre Blake – 7.5

Another week, another clean sheet. Despite what the scoreline suggests, this match ultimately came down to a battle between the goalkeepers. The Union didn’t dominate, especially in the first half, but Blake’s composure and shot-stopping heroics kept them steady. He registered five saves on the night, becoming the second-fastest player to reach 80 regular-season shutouts in MLS history.

Kai Wagner – 7

Wagner earned his 180th career appearance in league play for the Union, slotting a composed finish to cap off a strong performance.

Nathan Harriel – 6

Nate Harriel stepped in at center back for a second time this season, turning in a steady, quiet performance. The adjustment allows Westfield to continue at the right back spot, where he brings fresh energy and pace..

Jakob Glesnes – 7

Can you say banger? A powerful one-touch finish past D.C. United goalkeeper Luis Barraza put the Union ahead early. There’s still work to be done on the defensive side if the Union hope to recapture their defensive powerhouse status, but it’s a step in the right direction.

Frankie Westfield – 7.5

Westfield picked out Glesnes in the 15th minute for a volley finish that had the Union up 1-0 early. Even after helping the team get on the board, Westfield was relentless, putting in another tireless shift on both sides of the ball.

Danley Jean Jacques – 7.5

Danley did an outstanding job holding his ground and anchoring the midfield, scoring his second goal in as many games for the Union. As the weeks go on, his box-to-box performance only improves (as do his goal celebrations).

Jesus Bueno – 6

Bueno earned his first start of the season with Jovan Lukic serving his suspension from the last match. It was reassuring to see that, despite limited minutes so far, Bueno is determined to make the most of every opportunity and leave a strong impression.

Quinn Sullivan – 7

No goal, no problem. Quinn continues to grow into his role as the Union’s versatile playmaker, setting up Danley for his second goal of the season.

Indiana Vassilev – 6

It might have seemed like a quiet game for Vassilev, but the Union’s newest role player was putting in the work behind the scenes, including the leadup to the Glesnes goal.

Mikael Uhre – 6.5

Uhre earned his 100th career appearance with the Union, becoming just the 20th player in club history to reach the milestone. A goal would have been a terrific way to celebrate, but given all Uhre’s attempts came up short, we’ll settle for the assist on Damiani’s goal.

Tai Baribo – 6

Baribo reclaimed his starting spot, but a sloppy start had him fighting to rebalance throughout the game.

Substitutes:

(62′) Cavan Sullivan – 6

Philly nearly made it 4-0 for the second-straight season against D.C. United in stoppage time with Sullivan hitting a pass to the edge of the box for a Rafanello curler that was somehow denied.

(62′) Bruno Damiani – 6.5

After three weeks as a starter, Damiani returned to the bench but came on for Baribo in the 62nd minute. It took him a little time to find his rhythm, but he made the most of his opportunity, finishing off an Uhre pass to seal a 3-0 win at home.

(81′) Olwethu Makhanya – N/A

(81′) Chris Donovan – N/A

(90′) Jeremy Rafanello – N/A

Geiger Counter – Rubiel Vazquez – 7

There were some questionable decisions from Vázquez, especially early in the match, but overall it was a leaps-and-bounds improvement compared to some of the performances we’ve seen recently from his counterparts.