Union vs. Timbers Pregame

The Union pulled off a great comeback against the Revolution on Wednesday, they showed resilience by scoring three goals in the second half to tie the game 4-4. The Portland Timbers will not give up as easily. Portland is fighting for a playoff spot and one of the teams in the way is the Philadelphia Union. The Timbers have a lot of young talent and are coming off of a two game win streak, and a 17 day rest. While the Union haven't won a game in their last seven contests. In order for the Union to come away with a win, and to get back into the top two spots in the east, there defense needs to step up. The first and third goal scored by New England were uncontested headers, both set up by Chris Tierney. Giving rookie keeper Zac Macmath very little help. This was done by one of the worst teams in the league, so what is the playoff contending team going to do to Philadelphia. However, there is a ray of sunshine for the Union. Sebastian Le Toux scored two goals last game, and Freddy Adu got his first goal in the MLS since 2007. This leads me to believe that we might be seeing the Le Toux from last year, who led the team in goals. I would also like to see Peter Nowak start Adu and Mwanga, and keep them in for the full 90 minutes, they looked very in sync against the Revolution. If the Union can get an early lead I think they've got a good shot at winning, the Timbers are 1-8-3 on the road and if the Union can get on the board first that might break their backs. But, with putting Mwanga in the first half the defense will have to be strong. Macmath isn't the greatest keeper in the world but even Mondragon would have had a tough time saving some of those goals.