US Open Cup Final: Philadelphia Union 1-1 Sporting Kansas City (6-7 penalties)
The Union fell short, losing on penalty kicks.
The Union fell short, losing on penalty kicks.
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.
The Union sat back and absorbed New England’s pressure. They earned a point through Andre Blake’s heroism and Fernando Aristeguieta’s fine finish, but they will need to transition with much more success to trouble Sporting Kansas City on Wednesday.
Postgame comments from Jim Curtin, Fernando Artisteguieta, and Andre Blake.
Fernando Aristeguieta and Andre Blake were the heroes as the Union earned a road point against New England Saturday night.
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.
A poor showing from Houston gave Union fans a glimpse of the potential a fully loaded midfield offers. The return of Mo Edu led to unnecessary questions about his best position.
Post game video wrap with Mike and Eli. Vidoe and transcript of Jim Curtin’s postgame presser. Interviews with Richie Marquez and Michael Lahoud. More.
Tranquillo Barnetta and C.J. Sapong were both on target as the Union easily defeated Sheanon Williams and a lackluster Dynamo side.
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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