Cory Burke’s 2020 season was far different than the rest of his Philadelphia Union teammates. Not only did the Jamaican forward have to battle the challenges that the COVID-19 pandemic brought upon the beautiful game, he too had to face trying to find form while in Europe in hopes of finding a way back to the team he loves.
Much like Burke’s journey to the Union that began in the USL with Bethlehem Steel FC, the forward just wanted to play and help his team out. That form saw him net 10 goals in 2018 and he had already scored twice in seven matches in 2019 before green card issues forced a loan to Jamaican side Portmore United FC. While on the island, Burke kept scoring with 11 goals in 20 appearances and he hoped that 2020 would be a fresh start with the Boys in Blue.
Burke had to wait even longer as he was loaned to Austrian Bundesliga side SKN St. Poelten in February. As he tried to break into the club, the sports world was put on pause. When play finally resumed, Burke was still in Austria but he made the most of the opportunity with four goals and a pair of assists.
On October 6th, Head Coach Jim Curtin said four words that made Union fans breathe a sigh of relief. “He is in transit.” Burke’s return to Philadelphia was met with great enthusiasm as the 28-year-old’s return felt like a midseason transfer. Bringing his charismatic smile and hardworking mentality, shin guards returned to the training pitch for the Union and so too did the goals.
After 548 days, Burke was suited up with the Boys in Blue and delivered two of the most decisive and influential goals of the season. Burke entered in the second half and netted the game-winning goal against Chicago on October 28th in a moment that sent Subaru Park over the edge. Another big moment came in the regular season finale as Burke netted the insurance goal in the Union’s 2020 Supporters’ Shield clinching victory over New England.
“It’s a great feeling to be back home and with the guys and in front of these lovely and love Union fans,” Burke said after the goal against Chicago.
A member of the organization since 2016 with Steel FC, Burke kicked off the 2020-2021 offseason news with the announcement of a new contract that’ll see the forward in the City of Brotherly Love through 2022 with a team option for 2023.
