It was a light weekend for Philadelphia Union’s academy as the U15s and U17s traveled to face Nashville SC while the U12s matched up with Alexandria.
The 12s were dominant with Jeremy Wesseh and Zak Oldadunmoye both nabbing a hat trick and Cody Sand adding a brace as part of a 11-3 win. The key was the quick, precise forward passing after turnovers and the strong runs to create odd man rushes that overwhelmed Alexandria.
The U15s rode goals in both halves from Kellen LeBlanc and a 63rd minute finish from a streaking Anisse Saidi to a 3-1 win over Nashville’s U15 squad. The hosts went ahead two minutes after the opening whistle but the Union’s quick response settled the squad and they controlled play with their energy and organization. Nashville was physical and created problems on set plays, but Henry Apaloo’s side executed in the defensive and middle third and created enough chances to add a few more security goals.
The U17s didn’t fare as well, falling 2-1 to the hosts. A late penalty was all the 17s could put past Nashville as the Tennessee side rippled the net on either side of halftime to nab the win.
Springfield is up next for the Academy as they prepare for a huge weekend of Union soccer on October 29, followed by the Eastern Conference Final for the first team on October 30.
