Coming off a 2-0 win in Nashville, Philadelphia looked to make it a winning streak Saturday night at home versus NYCFC. New York City came into the matchup unbeaten in their last eight games. Philadelphia got back in the win column Wednesday night after back-to-back losses to Atlanta United and LA Galaxy. The Union ends NYCFC’s 8-game unbeaten streak.
To the Action
The first half started at NYCFC pace creating a few set pieces early. In the 20th minute, a great set piece by New York found Keaton Parks inside the box. Parks headed one towards the net, but the 3x MLS goalkeeper of the year Andre Blake who returned this week from international duties, was there to make the incredible save. In the 24th minute, a Brujo struck with another GOLAZO on the season for Jose Martinez. A cross from Quinn Sullivan found him at the back post for a blast that beat NYCFC goalkeeper Luis Barraza. That put the Union up 1-0.
Philadelphia had another great chance to double the lead in the 33rd minute. A turnover by NYC at midfield was taken away by Jakob Glesnes. Glesnes played it forward to Union striker Quinn Sullivan who also assisted on the first goal for a blast. Unfortunately, it was turned away by New York City goalie to keep the game 1-0. Philadelphia went to the half with the one-goal advantage.
Looking For A Spark
After a sluggish start by both teams in the second half Head Coach Jim Curtin looked to the bench for a spark on a hot night at Subaru Park. Fresh legs were just what the Union needed. In minute 75, substitute Chris Donovan came on for Quinn Sullivan. Six minutes after checking into the game, Donovan scored for the first time in his MLS career. A great give-and-go with Daniel Gazdag freed Donovan for an open net goal to give the Union a 2-0 lead and a strong hold on the game.
NYCFC would get one back in the 86th minute with a goal from Andres Jasson, but that wouldn’t be enough, and at the end of 90 minutes, the Union held a 2-1 lead to give them back-to-back wins right before the All-Star break. The win puts the Union back in 3rd place, heading into the break. The Union ends NYCFC’s 8-game unbeaten streak.
With a long layoff coming for the regular season, the Philadelphia Union will now look to the Leagues Cup, which kicks off Saturday, July 22nd at 8 pm at Subaru Park versus LigaMX side Tijuana.
My name is Diego Bianchi born and raised in Philadelphia. I’m a sports analyst, writer, and show host covering Philadelphia sports for Edge of Philly Sports. I also am a credentialed media member covering the Philadelphia Union for EOP. My passion for sports started since forever ago. At least, it feels like that. Thanks to my amazing family. I love doing this every day. You can catch me every Monday night on the Sully Squad at 6 PM on Edge of Philly Sports.
