Sometimes the entirety of a player’s career with a team is what makes him a legend. At other times, it’s a singular moment of brilliance that ties player, club, and fans together forever.
Sebastien Le Toux is Philadelphia Union’s all-time leading scorer, but his status as the face of Philly’s MLS franchise was cemented on April 10, 2010.
MORE: A Union Between Club and Player: Sebastien Le Toux in Philadelphia
It was the first time the Union played in Philadelphia and Lincoln Financial Field was packed and buzzing. DC United traveled only a few hours up I-95 with the expectation of a simple victory over the newcomers from Philly. But Le Toux had other plans.
Fourth minute: Roger Torres curls a hanging cross into the box. Header. 1-0. It was the first ever goal for the Philadelphia Union and the entire stadium trembled like a volcano preparing to burst.
And then in the 40th minute: The top blew. A counterattack with Alejandro Moreno turning his man and playing Le Toux through on the right. An easy finish and a 2-0 lead.
In the second half, DC finally broke a long scoreless run with two goals in six minutes. Moreno stood tall once again, earning a foul atop the DC box and getting Dejan Jakovic sent off. Two goals were in the bag, but Le Toux wanted a third. He stepped up. Fired through the DC United wall.
Pandemonium.
The first DOOP followed by the first hat trick and the first win.
April 10 is one of the biggest days in Union history – Happy DOOP Day, Philly!
