The Union beat 9 man Sporting Kansas City Saturday night, thanks to a stunning goal from substitute Roland Alberg, and a stoppage time goal from Tranquillo Barnetta. The Union had control for much of the match, dictating the ebb and flow and producing the better chances. A second yellow card to Jimmy Medranda gave the Union the necessary boost in the 55th minute to push forward. Then, after obtaining the lead, the Union received a bit of good fortune as Roger Espinoza received a straight red car for an elbow on Roland Alberg. While his movement seemed intentional, Sporting coach Peter Vermes seemed adamant that the card was absurd. “No chance, the guy gets an arm to his chest. I mean you want me to show you, I don’t know what game this is, but it’s a man’s game and there’s going to be contact. That’s ridiculous. I actually think the referee had a little bit of a grudge because I don’t know how you give that call.” Sporting is looking to overturn the decision through the disciplinary committee.
Here are the photos taken by Charlotte Thomas from Saturdays match:
