Philadelphia Union Academy put on a fantastic display on both sides of the pitch as all four squads dominated in MLS NEXT play with home victories over Alexandria SC and Charlotte FC.
The weekend kicked off on Saturday morning with the U14s cruising to a 3-0 win over Alexandria SC at YSC Sports in Wayne, Pa. Phil Karn’s men were able to take an early after a square ball was mishandled by the goalkeeper, causing the Baby Snakes to pounce on the chance to take an early lead. The squad was able to add another one in the first half after a set-piece opportunity led to an own-goal. They were able to add one more against the visitors, who were playing with only 10 men at that point of the match, in the second half to seal the three points. However, the most impressive aspect was that this was the third consecutive match this squad has kept a clean sheet.
Meanwhile, the 13s, who have been on a scoring tear for the past couple of months, were able to secure a 3-0 victory against Alexandria SC with ease. The Baby Snakes were able to take an early lead after some great combination play led to its first goal. They were able to add two more in the second half, including a goal from the penalty spot, to continue their impressive winning streak. In the past eight matches, Willy Topp’s side has scored a mesmerizing 42 goals. What has been as equally eye-opening is that the opponents have only scored three goals against in the same span.
Sunday saw the U17s deliver a great performance in a 4-0 win over Charlotte FC in Chester, Pa. Devon Decorte led the way with a brace, scoring both of his goals from the spot (10’ and 67’). Cavan Sullivan added one in the latter stages of the first half (33’) and Diego Rocio was able to put the nail in the coffin during the second half (75’). Benefitting from an early red card, Dom Schleinitz’s side was able to ease through the match and managed the game very well on both sides of the pitch.
As for the 15s, who put together some impressive performances at MLS NEXT Flex to clinch a spot in the MLS NEXT Cup Playoffs, they were also able to get back to their winning ways in MLS NEXT play with a 4-0 win against Charlotte FC. Henry Apaloo’s side were able to take the lead in the first half when a great through ball ultimately found the back of the net. The Baby Snakes were able to add one from the spot moments later to take a two-goal advantage heading into halftime. They were able to score two more goals in the second half to seal an important victory in what has been an incredible couple of weeks for the side.
Overall, it was an outstanding weekend for the Academy in MLS NEXT play as the spring season heads toward its final stages. The Boys in Blue are back in action this weekend with Friday evening contests against rivals New York Red Bulls. The action begins with the U15s and U14s at 5:30 p.m. ET followed by the U13s at 7:30pm at YSC Sports in Wayne, PA.
