Philadelphia Union II looks to continue its strong start to its 2024 MLS NEXT Pro season as they host a playoff rematch against New England Revolution II on Sunday. Don't miss the action from Subaru Park on MLS Season Pass on Apple TV.
The young Union II side under the direction of Head Coach Marlon LeBlanc rallied back in their home opener to start the season with a 2-1 victory over Toronto FC II last weekend. Union Academy product Andrew Rick had a strong opening half to keep his side in the fight with three big saves before the Boys in Blue turned up the defensive pressure in the second half to take momentum.
In the 51st minute, Union II found its equalizing goal with some set piece magic between a pair of Union Academy teammates in Frankie Westfield and David Vazquez. After earning a corner with a quick attack, Vazquez served up a perfectly placed volley into the box that Westfield got a header on first to float it into the back of the net. Three minutes later, Union II found itself in the lead courtesy of that synchronized pressure from the front three. As Toronto sought to slow down the match, they turned to backline passes that saw Olivas, Vazquez and Davis push forward. A back pass to the keeper forced an arrant clearance that Davis intercepted inside the 18. After a quick move and shot, the Union Academy forward’s had his first-ever MLS NEXT Pro goal to make it 2-1 in favor of Union II.
Union II's result earned the side the No. 7 ranking in the inaugural MLS NEXT Pro Power Rankings, but this week, they'll be without two starters from the opener as David Vazquez and Neil Pierre were called in by the United States for U-19 camp in Morocco.
Sunday's match marks a chance for revenge for Union II as their 2023 season came to an end courtesy of Revolution II in the playoffs. In that match, New England jumped out to a 3-0 lead just after the hour mark but the Boys in Blue fought back with two goals late to put pressure on the hosts but ultimately ran out of time. Sunday will be the 2024 opener for the Revs, as matchday one served as a bye week for Head Coach Richie Williams' side.
