Philadelphia Union II lost by a score of 1-0 to Toronto FC II on April 18, ending its short unbeaten streak in Canada. The match was decided by an own goal in the first half, when a cross deflected off a Union II defender and into the net.
The result is significant for Philadelphia Union II as it marks a setback during their ongoing April road trip. The team will look to recover next weekend with a rematch against CT United FC, scheduled for Sunday, April 26 at 3 p.m., with coverage available on OneFootball and MLSNEXTPro.com.
Head Coach Ryan Richter fielded his youngest starting lineup of the season, averaging just 18.9 years old. Goalkeeper Pierce Holbrook made his first start since returning from a knee injury. The defensive line included Finn Sundstrom and captain Rafael Uzcategui, while Jordan Griffin and Giovanny Sequera played on the wings. The midfield featured Tyler Gladstone, Matheus De Paula, Mamoutou Berthé, and Kellan LeBlanc. Nehan Hesan and John Ruf made their first starts in Major League Soccer NEXT Pro competition as part of the forward line.
During the match’s early moments, Sequera created an opportunity that led to LeBlanc shooting over the bar. In the 35th minute, Uzcategui inadvertently scored an own goal that put Toronto ahead. Substitutions throughout the second half saw Willyam Ferreira and Oscar Benitez enter for Gladstone and Berthé; Eddy Davis III replaced Ruf; Theo Reed came on for LeBlanc after a dangerous free kick attempt forced a save from Toronto’s goalkeeper.
Philadelphia Union features professional players on its main team according to the official website. The club achieved Major League Soccer’s Supporters’ Shield in 2020 according to the official website. Its facilities include Subaru Park in Chester along with training centers according to the official website. Philadelphia Union participates as a professional soccer team focused on elite competition while supporting youth programs and community involvement according to the official website.
As Philadelphia Union II prepares for its next fixture against CT United FC, supporters will be watching closely to see how this young squad responds after its recent defeat.
