Over the weekend the Philadelphia Union suffered a rough 1-0 loss to Nashville SC. Now, losing 3 members to the Gold Cup, the challenge will be greater for the Union.
Disappointment in Nashville
Nashville SC and the Philadelphia Union met for the first time Saturday, and it was a lopsided victory for Nashville. While the scoreline only read 1-0, it was obvious the U were outplayed in almost every step of the game. Just 2 minutes into the game, former Union Forward CJ Sapong made his old team pay, scoring the only goal in the contest.
From then on out, the Union failed to build anything dangerous. Daniel Gazdag failed to impress in his first start. However, it wasn’t entirely his fault as the entire offense lacked creativity. Also, Gazdag played on the left of the diamond as Jamiro Monteiro played the role of the #10 on the field, which Gazdag would have more success as.
Leon Flach played one of his worse games of the season. No problem, everyone has those days and it doesn’t take away from what he has done this season. However, for now, Jose Martinez should, and most likely will remain the starter at the #6.
The Gold Cup Brings Holes
The Gold Cup tournament will leave some holes for the Union to fill. Jamaica called up Union players Cory Burke, Alvas Powell, and Andre Blake.
Andre Blake obviously draws the biggest question marks. The MVP of the team and in the running for yet another MLS Goalkeeper of the Year Award. Do not be too worried. Matt Freese played well when Blake was hurt last year. Look more into Freese’s partnership with the backline as a question than his goalkeeping ability.
Cory Burke’s time away will leave time for Daniel Gazdag to find his footing in the team and this system. Gazdag will likely be starting up top with Kacper Pryzbylko and sharing time with Sergio Santos. Who knows, maybe him Curtin will take this time to tinker with other formations than the one the Union have rarely gone away from. Alvas Powell leaving isn’t season-ending of course, but it does hurt the depth.
The Union have more than enough solid players to fill the holes left by departing Gold Cup callups. However, it will be a test as to who is ready to step up and who will see less playing time. Don’t forget 3 huge players currently injured that were expected solid playing time. Anthony Fontana, Ilsinho and Jack De Vries. This Union squad is loaded depth-wise. The starting 11 and squad of 18 will interchange until playoff time.
Featured Image: Wes Shepherd/PHLSportsNation
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