Photo courtesy of the Philadelphia Union

The Philadelphia Union fell to FC Cincinnati on the road Saturday. Although the Union had a number of good opportunities, they were unable to find the back of the net, despite doubling Cinci’s shot output. Ayoub Jabbari scored following a spilled shot, the Boys in Blue were unable to grab a late equalizer. Let’s get into the ratings.

Player Ratings:

Andre Blake – 5

The Jamaican netminder didn’t face many shots in this one. Although he saved Evander’s initial strike, he pushed it wide and Jabbari was there to tap home.

Kai Wagner – 7

The German’s passing was top notch in this one, especially in open play. Put in some good challenges as well but could he have reacted faster on the Cinci goal?

Neil Pierre – 7

Great defense to largely keep the Cinci attack contained. Also displayed his range of passing on the ball.

Nathan Harriel – 7

Forced an outstanding save from Roman Celetano with his bullet header. Stood tall on defence,

Frankie Westfield – 5

Lots of high-risk forward passes that didn’t land. Those risky passes are part of why he’s on the field, but he was unable to create much on the attack, and didn’t stand out defensively.

Jovan Lukic – 7

The Serbian continued his run of form, doing a good job of shielding the backline, and even playing some dangerous passes on the attack.

Indiana Vassilev – 6

Solid showing from the usual wide attacker who replaced the injured Jean-Jacuqes at defensive midfield.

Ben Bender – 5

Showed some flashes, particularly in his passing, including a good cross that deserved a better finish in the 36th minute.

Quinn Sullivan – 6

Needs to dial in his shooting, there were a couple of chances that he would have finished in past seasons. Still, he is getting into dangerous positions, and that’s half the battle. Good to see he’s still got his speed.

Bruno Damiani – 6

Although he didn’t find the back of the net, Damiani was involved throughout, and looked dangerous. Hit the hoodwork early in the second half coming inches away from his 14th goal of the season.

Ezekiel Alladoh – 5

Had a few good invovlments. Still looks pretty rought, but it would be unfair to say this performance wasn’t an improvement over the majority of his outings on the year.

Substitutes:

Cavan Sullivan – 6

The Union missed his energy and chance creation last game and through the first hour of this one. Threatened on the attack, but some rash decisions prevented any heroic comeback efforts.

Jesús Bueno – 6

Did well winning possession back for the U when they needed the ball. Good to see ChuChu return from his injury.

Agustin Anello – 6

Looked bright, got involved, and took some good shots. Nearly blasted Hagglund’s head off near the end of the game.

Malik Jakupovic – N/a

Geiger Counter:

Allen Chapman – 7

Largely content to let both teams play. Not much to complain about, or many controversial moments. 

Player of the Match: Teenage Hadebe

Celetano might get the headlines but I think Hadebe’s performance was outstanding. He made some incredible plays to keep the Union off the board, including a double clearance that resulted in his injury.

What’s Next

The Philadelphia Union return home for a Decision Day showdown with Toronto FC. The Union will be hoping to avoid the Wild Card by securing a victory. Kick-off is scheduled for 4 PM at Subaru Park.