Philadelphia Union travel to New England this weekend to face off against the Revolution. This is just weeks after the Union lost to the Revs on penalty kicks in the quarterfinals of the US Open Cup. These two teams have met once in league play, very early in the season. The Union won 3-0 at home, after a Je-Vaughn Watson red card. The tides turned in Boston, however, when Watson scored the Revolution’s only goal, and the final penalty kick to send New England through. Watson has emerged as a stand out player in this Revolution team, and will likely shine Saturday night. The Revs recently made a push past Chicago to the USOC finals this week. Tired legs may be a factor this weekend for them after the midweek game. With the depth for New England, however, there is a replacement ready at every attacking position.
The Union are coming off of a late 2-2 draw in the nation’s capital last week. A 90th minute equalizer by defender Steve Birnbaum brought the hosts level. This was after a series of plays where D.C continued to threaten Philly’s goal. For the Union Saturday night will be a test of it’s defense. A strong start of the season had every Union fan optimistic about their team’s defense, but like the struggles of last year, the Union have begun to leak goals recently, especially on the road. With only 1 win away from home this match could be a chance for the Union to revitalize it’s season. Recent DP signing Alejandro Bedoya could likely make a showing, and will hopefully be the spark that the Union midfield need to protect the defense. Meanwhile Charlie Davies returns to face his former club just weeks after leaving for Philadelphia.
This match will likely mirror the USOC cup game from just a few weeks ago. With strength in attack being a strong point for both clubs, look for goals on both sides. A 2-2 draw or 2-1 New England win seems on the cards unless the Union can shape up, in which case life may become very difficult for the Revolution.
Kick off is at 730 EST at Gillette Stadium on Saturday, August 13th.
