Chester, PA
Philadelphia’s afternoon home opener Saturday was an exercise in frustration, from Michael Bradley’s two simple, “pop it in” goals to two “hand ball in the box” penalty shots, one a piece for Philadelphia and Toronto. The refereeing seemed remarkable for its inconsistency. With the number of times that medical assistance made its way onto the field, particularly in the second half, the mere five minutes of stoppage time for the second half made delaying the game seem like a worthwhile venture.
Still, it is also is clear that some defensive adjustments need to be made to ensure that the likes of Michael Bradley are not wide open in the box.
Meanwhile, there were moments of note, from the slimmed down Ilsinho to appearances of Marco Fabián and Kai Wagner. Fabián’s penalty shot was far better than that of Toronto’s Jonathan Osorio.
A late-starting Philadelphia Union has become a bit of a tradition. Once Philadelphia adjusts to its new formation, the game results should also start to change. Union fans, stay put.
Of the strange calls, this foul called on Haris Medunjanin appeared to be clean and angered Medunjanin.
Here is the decisive moment for the “hand ball” that led to the save penalty shot by the Union’s Andre Blake.
Bradley seemingly trips Marco Fabián.
Fabián converted on the penalty shot.
Sergio Santos suggests a vision issue for the Head Referee.
Alex Bono had a “good enough” night in goal for Toronto.
