Two three-match winning streaks collide when the Union touch down in LA this weekend. The Galaxy have scored seven times in the last trio of matches en route to third place in the Western Conference while the Union have locked things down defensively, allowing no goals from open play since March 17.
Going into this match, the Union are close to full strength, with only striker Sergio Santos missing due to injury. Cory Burke’s strong showing off the bench against FC Dallas means Philly goes into their matchup with LA with Fafa Picault as the only available striker without a goal. Picault, however, has done yeoman’s work pressing from the front during the team’s current unbeaten run.
Jim Curtin will have a full complement of players available in midfield and will need to make a difficult decision with Jamiro Monteiro pushing for his first start. Ilsinho was also strong off the bench last weekend, but Curtin would need to pull one of Brenden Aaronson, Ale Bedoya, or Marco Fabian to get the Brazilian into the first eleven. Monteiro could conceivably slot into the No. 6 role for Haris Medunjanin, but so much of Philly’s attack runs through the Bosnian right now that hauling him off would be a surprising move. A long road trip, though, might be the time to do it.
In back, the Union remain healthy and are unlikely to make any unforced changes. Andre Blake has been immaculate since returning from international duty and Kai Wagner continues to excel up the left.
The Union take on LA Galaxy this Saturday, April 13, at 10:30 p.m. ET on PHL17.
