The Philadelphia Union returned to winning ways against Club Necaxa, easily dispatching the Aguascalentense club 3-1. Cavan Sullivan and Nathan Harriel each posted a goal and an assist, and Bruno Damiani got on the scoresheet in what was a must win game for the Boys in Blue. 

Before we move into the ratings, it’s time to introduce a new segment: the “Richter Scale”. Inspired by former Union player, and current manager, Ryan Richter, the newest segment in PSP Player Ratings will judge the Union Head Coach’s performance, including their tactics, lineup, and in-game adjustments. A higher reading on the Scale indicates a managerial showing akin to Pep Guardiola, whereas a lower reading indicates a head loss worthy of Piotr Nowak.

Without further ado, let’s get into the ratings. 

Player Ratings:

Andrew Rick – 7

Posted a career-high 8 saves, including some big stops down the stretch to keep the Union in the driver’s seat. Probably deserved to get the clean sheet, as he was not at fault for the Necaxa goal. Fell victim to the new ‘8-second rule’ once, but no major mishaps.

Kai Wagner – 7

Great on and off the ball, as usual. No assists this time unfortunately, despite creating a match leading 3 chances.

Japhet Sery Larsen – 6

Nothing flashy, but a consistent showing on the backline from the Danish defender. Picked up a well earned yellow card for a tactical foul to stop a Necaxa counter-attack.

Neil Pierre – 7

Wasn’t afraid to try to make things happen with his passing. Strong defensively, but was booked for a clumsy foul in the 11th minute. Seemed to be dealing with a couple knocks, which will hopefully resolve before Thursday.

Nathan Harriel – 8

A career game for the Union captain on the night. Nate scored the opening goal and added an assist on the eventual game-winner. Some key defensive plays at right back, but was caught unaware on the Necaxa goal, leaving a man open.

Danley Jean-Jacuqes – 6

Played alright, but not his usual self. A few inaccurate passes. Taken off earlier than usual, but he has certainly earned a rest over the last few weeks.

Jovan Lukić – 7

Good defensive work-rate, one or two poor decisions with the ball at his feet, but his pass to Harriel that set up the second goal was a thing of beauty. More of that please!

Cavan Sullivan – 8

An assist and a goal for Cavan, who finally got back in the goalscorer’s column. Continue to keep your eyes on him, this feels like another level-up from the star boy.

Indiana Vassilev – 7

Was generally the solidifying presence the team needed to control the game in this one. Picked up a nice assist, with the cross to Cavan. 

Bruno Damiani – 7

Hey, he scored! It was a good finish too. Here’s hoping the Uruguayan can keep finding the back of the net this season.

Ezekiel Alladoh – 5

Held up play well, winning a few fouls but is still struggling to get involved in the play. 

Substitutes:

Jesús Bueno – 7

Kept control of the midfield and was involved with some of the best attacking moves in the second half. Looked certain to score in the 63rd minute, but for a big block from a Necaxa defender.

Frankie Westfield – 5

Showed his skill with a couple of dirty nutmegs. Passing wasn’t dialed in. Was the victim of a few fouls – and some uncalled contact – which seemed to unsettle him a bit. 

Quinn Sullivan – 6

Looked bright immediately after coming on, but cooled down. It’s clear Quinn is getting closer to finding his rhythm after a long spell on the sidelines.

Milan Iloski – 5

Set up some chances in the initial flurry the subs caused. Quieted down after.  

Malik Jakupovic – 5

Good to see the youngster get first team minutes. Wasn’t involved in much, but seems to be an eager runner. 

Geiger Counter:

Jefferson Escobar – 6

Consistent enough, but several no-calls that seemed deserving of a foul and potential booking. Most notably, the push to Frankie Westfield that went unpunished.

Richter Scale: 

Ryan Richter – 7

Got the balance between starters and rotation right in the lineup. The decision to shift Harriel back to his preferred position of right back paid dividends. Necaxa’s extreme use of width offered a different kind of challenge, but it seemed like Richter and his coaching staff prepared the team well enough. The first wave of substitutions felt planned, which made sense to keep legs fresh, but unfortunately the Union were unable to find a 4th goal. The need to make up Goal Difference will make reaching the knockouts even harder.

Player of the Match: Cavan Sullivan

Take a bow young man. The 16 year old (does anyone else feel like he’s been 16 since 2024?) has shown flashes of his potential all season, but he finally put together a complete performance on Sunday night. A goal and an assist might not be his best stat-line in all competitions this season, but against Necaxa in the Leagues Cup, this one feels the most indicative of his growth.

What’s Next?

The Union still have a shot at reaching the knockout stage, but will need help to do so. Only the top 4 MLS teams advance to the knockouts, so Philly will be rooting for Liga MX clubs to win their matchups in order to have a chance at progressing. The Boys in Blue return to Leagues Cup action this Thursday, August 13th, when they will face Santos Laguna in their final group phase match. Kickoff is set for 7 PM at Subaru Park