Philly travels one state over to New Jersey to face a Red Bulls team that has successfully built the midfield the Union thought they had a year ago. With Maurice Edu suspended, Philadelphia needs immense performances from the duo that steps into central defense.
DC has risen to the top through shrewd roster development. Philly has sunk to the bottom by failing at the same game. The Union must create opportunities against a tenaciously organized defense to take home points off the Eastern Conference leaders on Sunday.
The Union are in danger of floating away, but the mediocre Eastern Conference is granting them time. To get a result on Saturday in Vancouver they should have one primary goal: Prevent Pedro Morales from getting the ball in space to stifle the Whitecaps’ counterattack.
Two teams that have struggled to defend face off at PPL Park. The Union need role players to step up while Toronto is counting on the big guns to carry them to victory.
A difficult match against a strong Columbus side will test Philadelphia’s ability to steal points on the road. The Union need to find their counterattack through Maidana to threaten and relieve what will likely be heavy and consistent pressure.
Four points from two matches has given Philadelphia Union the foundation they need to climb the Eastern Conference standings. A talented New England side will look to halt Philly’s momentum on Sunday.