The Philadelphia Union traveled to D.C to take on D.C United, and looked to gain some grown to first place in the Eastern Conference standings. The Union were the overwhelming favorite heading to the game as D.C United were on an eight-game winless streak and have recently fired their long time head coach Ben Olsen.

First Half:

The Union started off slow in the first half and were playing down to their opponent. United had some chances but Union goalie Andre Blake saved the day.

The game entered halftime 0-0 and the Union looked to be in a similar position that they were in vs FC Cincinnati.

Second Half:

In just four minutes to the start of the second half, the birthday boy Anthony Fontana scored taking a 1-0 lead. 

In the 71st minute, Donovan Pines equalized the game off of a corner kick. This was Pines first ever career MLS goal. 

Just four minutes late D.C United were awarded a PK from a very questionable handball call. Midfielder Yamil Asad took the penalty and slotted it home. Just like that D.C United took the lead.

Things were starting to look very concerning for the Union until homegrown defender Mark McKenzie shot an absolute rocket from outside of the box and tied the game at 2-2. 

The game ended in a tie and the Union have officially clinched a playoff birth. The Union were lucky to come away with a point tonight, in a game that they were projected to win big. With five games remaining, the Union needs to focus on a good seed for the MLS Playoffs. Coach Jim Curtin discussed this after the game tonight.

“We aren’t cracking any champagne like we would maybe in previous years for making the playoffs. This is the kind of expected this season and now we’re gonna fight for those top spots in the conference and want to get as many home games as possible.”

The Union take on New England Revolution once again Monday night. The game was originally scheduled for Sunday but was moved back a day. They currently sit in second place and are three points behind Toronto FC for first place.

Can’t Watch?

Don’t worry we have you covered. Our good buddies over at Fox Sports The Gambler are the NEW HOME for Philadelphia Union Soccer. Gotta love it. Sean Brace and the rest of the crew at The Gambler are fantastic. Our Victor Williams locked in as an Eagles Insider for the the NFL season, Drew Smith has been on The Daily Ticket with Sean Brace, and we even have Liberty Line Radio EVERY SATURDAY from 5-6pm.

Mandatory Credit: Philadelphia Union