Photo courtesy of the Philadelphia Union

The Philadelphia Union defeated Club de Football Montréal 2-1 in a sloppy, but ultimately effective, mid-week performance at Subaru Park this past Wednesday. Tai Baribo scored his first goal since returning to the team, and Olewethu Makhanya bagged his first career doop for the Union with the eventual match winner. Andre Blake was called on to make several big time saves, but the Union were able to find victory, and remain atop the Supporter’s Shield Standings. Let’s get into the ratings.

Player Ratings:

Andre Blake – 8

It’s hard to find new ways to describe Blake’s performance because he’s so consistent. Made several key saves to keep the Union in it. Standout stop on Owusu in a wild sequence that certainly saved the 3 points for the U.

Kai Wagner – 8

Led team in Defensive Actions with 12 including: 3 won tackles, 3 INTs, and 7 successful duels. Game winning assist and the 60th overall helper in his career with the Union. 

Jakob Glesnes – 7

Good when he was on the field, although he was subbed relatively early into the affair. Picked up a dubious yellow card, which likely went into the decision. Following the change, the Union gave up some big chances without him.

Olwethu Makhanya – 9 

First goal for the club and it was a game winner. Solid defense, barring one mistake that allowed Prince Owusu to score. Displayed a poise and ability on the ball rarely seen in Center Backs. Very exciting player to have on the team with a bright future.

Nathan Harriel – 7

The Union’s utility player was at it again, starting at RB but finishing the game at CB. Did well enough on the attack as a full-back. Insane block in the 60th minute that saved a near-certain goal. 

Danley Jean-Jacques – 7

Looks so dangerous with the ball at his feet but couldn’t quite finish his attacking plays. Still, he played a large role in the Union’s first goal and his defensive work was solid.

Jovan Lukić – 6

Clogged up the midfield lines well, tidy passing on the ball.

Quinn Sullivan – 7

The Union dearly missed the Elder Sullivan’s creative instincts when he was away on Gold Cup duty. Earned his 8th assist on the season on the Union’s opener.

Indiana Vassilev – 6

The ‘Pressing Demon’ was at it again on Wednesday, harassing and pressuring the Montreal backfield. It might not have led to a ‘pretty’ game, but the Union thrive in chaos, and Vassilev is essential to that aspect of their identity. Could stand to clean up his passing – some bad turnovers around midfield in the beginning of this one.

Tai Baribo – 6

Classic striker’s finish that opened the scoring for the Union. A couple wayward passes and touches, especially early in the game. Great to have Baribo back as the Union were clearly missing his finishing ability during his absence.

Bruno Damiani – 4

Not as impactful as the last game. It will be interesting to see who starts tomorrow’s contest in Houston. 

Substitutes:

Francis Westfield – 5

So very attack-minded. Without knowing what his instructions were coming on as a sub, it’s hard to fairly judge this performance. It felt like he should’ve stayed back more as Montreal came close to scoring on fast counters when he was caught high. Should’ve had an assist from his pinpoint cross to Uhre in the 75th minute.

Mikael Uhre – 4

Came on and brought some pace and energy. Had a great chance to break his drought with a header from close range but could not convert. Nice to have him back on the field either way.

Chris Donovan – 3

Yup. Chris Donovan definitely subbed into this game.

Alejandro Bedoya – 5

Always good to see El Capitán get into the game during a home match. 

Cavan Sullivan – 5

Played some active defense from the attacking midfielder position, winning a tackle and snagging an INT. Good stuff from the kid, but didn’t show much of the flair he possesses in this shorter cameo.

Geiger Counter

Guido Gonzalez – 4

Yeesh. That was frustrating from a fan’s perspective. Guess there weren’t any big decisions he got wrong but it felt like the Union was getting called for every little thing. Maybe that’s more indicative of Philly’s playing style than any particular referee but still. 

Player of the Match – Olewethu Makhanya

Great to see the young prospect score a big goal for his first senior tally. Expecting big things from Mak in the coming years.

What’s Next

The league leading Philadelphia Union will take to the road tomorrow to face off with an inconsistent but still dangerous Houston Dynamo. It will serve as a reunion between Jack McGlynn and his former team – and one where he will be eager to make Philly regret off-loading him. Kick-off scheduled for 8:30 PM EST.