After an early season break, Philadelphia Union II returns to MLS NEXT Pro action with a Friday night battle against Huntsville City FC. Don't miss the action over on MLS Season Pass on Apple TV.
Head Coach Ryan Richter's side last played 11 days ago when they went the distance for the second-straight contest ending in a penalty kick shootout. Facing off against rivals New York Red Bulls II in the club's home opener at Subaru Park, Cavan Sullivan dazzled in the first half with a free kick golazo to pace the Union II offense. Red Bulls II forced the young Philly side to showcase some hometown grit to overcome a stoppage time equalizer to win in penalty kicks. In the battle for the extra point, it was another showing from homegrown goalkeeper Andrew Rick as only one of four shots got past him. On the offensive side during the spot kicks it was Stas Korzniowski, David Vazquez and Leandro Soria hitting the back of the net to put the pressure on the away side that resulted in two big home points for Union II.
While Union II hasn't been in competitive action, there was plenty of spotlight happening as the first team saw seven members away for international duty. After putting up a strong performanace against Red Bulls II, Rick was in net for the first team as he collected the second MLS shutout of his young career. Union II captain Nick Pariano and forward Stas Korzeniowski were on the bench for the match as well after signing short-term callups to be eligible for selection for Head Coach Bradley Carnell.
Friday's contest will be the fourth all-time meeting between Union II and Huntsville, with the Boys in Blue owning a 2-1 series lead. Last season Union II were dominant in the attacking third but were unable to break through the Alabama defense for most of the match. The youthful Philly side continued to battle and broke through in the 79th minute with homegrown midfielder CJ Olney putting home a pass from Giovanny Sequera. Union II added an insurance goal from a Frankie Westfield penalty kick to secure the three points.
Huntsville City FC have started the season with back-to-back road contests which began with a resounding 4-1 victory over Chicago Fire II. Christian Koffi scored a brace against his former team to lead the way however the momentum was cooled in their second contest as they fell by a 1-0 margin to Chattanooga FC.
