The Philadelphia Union could not find the late equalizer as they lost 2-1 away against a red hot Cyle Larin and Orlando City side.
Though they pushed late in the match to find an equalizing goal, the Philadelphia Union couldn’t find the back of the net, losing 2-1 to a now 2-0-0 Orlando City. Cyle Larin picked up both goals for Orlando as the Lions controlled most of the game. The Union did have their chances to equalize at the every end, though, but were denied by the post and Bendik.
Here are three things the Union can takeaway from this match:
1. The Union Created Chances While Being Dominated
Let’s face it, Orlando City pretty much dominated most of this game. Even though Orlando outplayed the Union, Philadelphia had plenty of opportunities to score, showing their ability to create chances without much of the ball. Especially in the first half when Orlando had much more of the ball than the Union, there were chances like Philly’s counter in the 14th-minute that saw Spector break up a cross that would have definitely found the back of the net. Even if the Union are being bossed possession wise they still have the ability to create chances to score.
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2. CJ Sapong Keeps Scoring
CJ Sapong has now scored two goals in two games. Sapong was the Union’s go to goalscorer last season and it is good to have him back on the score sheet. The more confidence he builds, the better he will play moving forward. With their next game set to be against a struggling DC United, expect him to be on the score sheet again.
3. Through Balls are Killer
Both Orlando’s goals came from through balls, putting someone one on one with the goalkeeper. This is something the Union, who don’t have much speed in the back, have to work on. On both goals, Rivas and Larin were easily played in behind Philly’s backline. If the Union can’t find a way to fix this weakness in their backline, players across the league like Jordan Morris or Dominic Oduro will tear this team apart.
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Philadelphia have a week off ahead of them, their next game coming April 1st against DC United at 7pm EST.