Philadelphia Union are one of only two MLS teams with two five-win runs in 2022, and now Philadelphia Union II have their first chance at a five match winning streak when they host New England Revolution II at Subaru Park on Sunday, August 21.
Union II’s recent hot run has been stoked by much-needed finishing from its talented but young striker corps. Jose Riasco’s confident finish last weekend meant a different striker has scored in all four of Union II’s run of victories. Along with massive contributions from Union homegrowns — Paxten Aaronson turned in an electric performance with a goal and an assist on Sunday, and Matt Real has been flexing on MLSNEXTPro competition for over a month — better runs and a combination of tenacity and patience have allowed Marlon LeBlanc’s young strikers to break out.
At home again against New England Revolution II, the emphasis will be on controlling space and moving the ball back to front in a hurry following turnovers. All season, Union II have been dangerous when they turn opponents over in their own half, and they have struggled when pinned deep and forced to chuck the ball long.
Union fans may take for granted how often Daniel Gazdag, Leon Flach, and Ale Bedoya gallop onto second balls from long clearances, but understanding where to be and when to be there is not something easily acquired or executed, and the young stars of tomorrow are still working to understand how to react when exiting their defensive third.
Another area Union II will look to better exploit going forward is attacking set pieces. Brandan Craig might deliver the best ball of any player in the entire Union system, and turning some of those deliveries into big chances could significantly change how teams treat Union II.
With Philadelphia Union traveling to DC on August 20, any players that don’t see heavy minutes should be able to return to Philly and be available for LeBlanc. Expect players like Aaronson, Craig, Quinn Sullivan, and Jesus Bueno to continue to play big roles at Union II look to move into playoff position.
Head down to Subaru Park for the 7:00 p.m. ET kickoff on Sunday, August 21, or tune in to an enhanced broadcast featuring Dave Leno and Sebastien Le Toux on MLSNEXTPro.com.
