Preview: Union vs Orlando City SC
The Union can take over first place in the Eastern Conference with a win over current leaders Orlando City Friday night.
The Union can take over first place in the Eastern Conference with a win over current leaders Orlando City Friday night.
Chicago’s 3-5-2 has been defensively solid but offensively challenged. Can Veljko Paunovic tweak the system in time for this weekend’s match against the Union?
Both Philly and New England have yet to establish an identity this season. The Union will look to build on last week’s win as they aim for the first of (at least) ten home victories in 2016.
Philadelphia Union need to rebound against a talented Columbus side. Philly may not get a win, but they need to show more fight than they did last week.
Last year the Union began the season against one of MLS’ worst teams. In 2016, they face one of the best. A revamped defense will be put to the test when Philly faces Dallas on Sunday.
Orlando City has returned to its expansive 4-3-3 and climbed the standings. They need to overcome an eight goal differential to catch New England. Philly just needs to avoid another New York debacle.
The Red Bulls are chasing the Supporter’s Shield but Philly is simply running from the ignominy of a last place finish. The I-95 rivalry is renewed one last time in 2015, and the Union’s disjointed roster has a lot to prove.
Philly needs the US Open Cup to push them to the next phase of a long rebuilding process. Kansas City needs it to jumpstart them out of another late season lull. PPL Park was electric in the 2014 final, and it will be again tonight.
Philly will be peeking ahead to the USOC final, but New England needs points to secure the best playoff spot in a tight race. It all adds up to a one-sided contest, but the Union can use this match to improve their defensive shape against a team that moves well in the final third.
In the kind of game they need to learn how to win if they want to turn into a consistent playoff contender, the Union has a real chance to steal points at home against a Houston side struggling with injuries and suspensions.
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