Toronto FC’s Knockout Round opponent is the sixth-placed Philadelphia Union. Here is a quick rundown to get you familiar with the Union:
2016 Season: A tale of two halves
The Union’s season was the story of two extremes. Philly spent most of the first half of the season atop the Eastern Conference standings. The team then went on to only win four games in their final 18 contests. This included a three game losing streak to end the year. The extreme shift in form was likely due to numerous factors. The team rode on the back of a red-hot Andre Blake to begin the season. In addition, the Union had already lost their designated player Maurice Edu for the season and then the team battled through injuries to key squad players during the year. The Union’s 1.23 points per game are the lowest to qualify for the playoffs since 2006.
Key Player: Andre Blake
The starting keeper for the Union and the Jamaican National team has had a great 2016. The first overall pick in the 2014 MLS SuperDraft recorded six clean sheets in 32 starts for the Union. It was Blake’s first year where he was the fulltime starter for the Union. If the Union wants to leave BMO field with the victory on Wednesday they will need Blake to be at his best.
Unsung Hero: Keegan Rosenberry
The 3rd overall selection in the 2016 MLS SuperDraft had an incredible debut season but will not get the same recognition of fellow rookies Jack Harrison and Jordan Morris. Rosenberry played every single minute of the Union’s 2016 season. He was able to chip in two goals and two assists along the way. In a season where the Union has battled injury after injury, Rosenberry has been a massive boost to the team’s lineup. Look for the 2016 MLS All-star to make an impact in Wednesday night’s game.
Coach: Jim Curtain
The former MLS defender is in his fourth season as the Head coach of the Philadelphia Union. On April 23, he became the winningest coach in club history.
Injuries:
D/M Maurice Edu – Out
D Josh Yaro – Out
M Tranquillo Barnetta – Questionable
M Ilsinho – Questionable
M Chris Pontius – Questionable
F C.J Sapong – Questionable
D Ken Tribbett – Questionable
D/M Warren Creavalle – Questionable
Projected Lineup
The Union has consistently rolled with a 4-2-3-1 formation for the past couple of matches. Here is the projected lineup:
