Philadelphia Union II hits the road for the first time in 2023 as they face off against New England Revolution II on Monday afternoon on MLS Season Pass on the Apple TV app.
Union II heads north after starting off its second MLS NEXT Pro campaign with a back-to-back setbacks against Orlando City B and Inter Miami CF II. Despite LeBlanc’s goals to control the early phase of the match against Miami, the opponents found the early opener in the 12th minute. The Union II attack proved their grit in the second half with multiple close chances between forwards Nelson Pierre and Stefan Stojanovic and midfielder Jeremey Rafanello, outshooting Miami 14-4.
Nelson Pierre played the full 90’ and remained mentally focused and threatening to Inter Miami II’s backline, sealing the equalizer in the 87th minute. With the attacking line finding success in challenging their opponent’s backline, Union II are shaping up to be the threat needed to bounce back from their losses at the start of the season.
Homegrown center back Brandan Craig made his return from international play, providing a defensive boost for the Union II backline. However, with the first team's travel schedule for the second leg of the Scotiabank Concacaf Champions League, Union II could see the start of recent center back signee Hugo Le Guennec.
Another potential change anticipated in the match against Revolution II is 2023 signee Juan Castillo at left back. Castillo made his debut start against Inter Miami CF II showcasing his strength, size, and speed for the second team’s backline and providing lineup flexibility for Marlon LeBlanc.
New England Revolution II have secured back-to-back wins for their first two matches of the MLS NEXT Pro season. Revolution II defeated NYCFC II in 2-1 victory in the 89th minute when Malcolm Fry sent the ball forward to Homegrown midfielder Bajraktarević who slotted the ball home, two second half substitutions that prove depth for the Revolution II bench.
Clint Peay, in his third season as Revolution II’s head coach, had a mix of veteran players and newcomers in the Rev II’s last match against NYCFC II. Peay only made two substitutions late into the match, depending heavily on his starting 11 to close the game.
The two sides will face off at Gillette Stadium on Monday, April 10th with kick off set for 1pm ET on MLS Season Pass on the Apple TV app.
