Philadelphia Union II not only looked impressive in their 2-0 debut win in MLS NEXT Pro last weekend but also showcased how the club plans to operate in 2022. Head Coach Marlon LeBlanc started five members of the Union’s MLS squad which were joined by a mix of signed professionals and players from the Philadelphia Union Academy. While some might have hung their head playing not playing for the MLS squad, all five players embraced their roles according to LeBlanc.
“What a great culture you can have that first team guys want to be in the second team and knowing that it benefits them as much as it benefits us”.
With battles in the Starting XI and minutes in MLS intensifying, it’s hard to turn away fresh game film to show you’re deserving of a look on the big stage. In the opener, Jesus Bueno impressed with a strong performance in the midfield and netted his first goal in Subaru Park.
Homegrowns Cole Turner and Matt Real also turned in strong matches as well. Turner was a wrecking ball in the midfield alongside Bueno and displayed knowledge of the Union’s defense right into the attack on the Venezuelan’s second-half strike with a long threaded pass into the attack.
Slotted as normally a left back, Real played 90 minutes on the opposite side of the pitch and was a standout according to LeBlanc as he “ran up and down the sidelines”. That was showcased in the box score with Real leading the way with six won tackles and only one foul conceded.
Union II is back in action on Sunder afternoon as they hit the road for the first time in 2022 with a trip to Inter Miami II. Kick off is set for 6 p.m. ET with the match streamed on MLSNEXTPro.com
