Playing their four match in six days, Head Coach Ryan Richter’s team showed no lack of energy jumping on the Revolution early with a systematic high press that caused issues. The pressing created counter attack cances for the Boys in Blue after some big defensive blocks in the seventh minute with Gael Medrano nearly bagging three minutes later if not for a spectacular save.
In the 18th minute the Union broke through as Bajung Darboe delivered a golazo from a free kick opportunity. The 14-year-old stepped up and hit a right-footed rocket from 23-yards out that sent the entire squad into jubilation.
Darboe was just getting started as he grabbed another goal in the 33rd minute with a quick turn to his left that put his defender on a tizzy and set up for the strong left-footed goal in the upper 90.
At the start of the second half, New England was clearly seeking to grab an early goal and generate momentum. They possessed the ball in midfield but failed to create any real threats on quarterfinals hero Andrew Rick’s net.
Meanwhile, Darboe remained a menace to the Revs defense. Playing through the left channel, Darboe was simply too physical to be contained by a single defender. Throughout the half, however, Philly’s standout performer was unable to pick out a finisher with his lashed crosses into the box.
In the 60th minute, Darboe was behind the defense yet again. He latched onto a long pass over the top and sought to touch the ball around the goalkeeper at the top of the box. The move wasn’t clean, and New England cleared the chance.
That chance took the final wind out of the Revs’ sails. Richter used his subs well to keep legs fresh and his team protected the center with energy to the final whistle.
The U15s will face off against Real Salt Lake who defeated the San Jose Earthquakes, 3-0. The final will take place on Friday night with kick set for 7:05 p.m. ET.
