Philadelphia Union II battled Huntsville City FC to a scoreless draw on Sunday evening at Subaru Park before claiming the extra point with a 5-3 victory in the post-match penalty shootout.
Goalkeeper George Marks delivered the decisive performance after 90 minutes of scoreless soccer, making a save during the shootout after he confidently scored his own penalty kick to keep the Boys in Blue in front. Union Academy graduate Andrew Craig then stepped to the spot and buried the match-winning penalty in his final appearance for Union II before beginning his collegiate career.
The two sides traded chances throughout the evening but neither could find the breakthrough. Philadelphia created dangerous opportunities in both halves, while Marks and the Union II backline stood tall to preserve the clean sheet against a persistent Huntsville City attack. The visitors also threatened on several occasions, but Union II's defense answered every challenge to send the match to the league's post-match penalty shootout.
With one point already secured through the draw, Union II seized the opportunity to collect the second point. Philadelphia converted all five of its penalty attempts, highlighted by Marks' successful spot kick and Craig's composed finish to clinch the shootout victory. Marks' save proved equally vital, helping the Boys in Blue earn the extra point in the MLS NEXT Pro standings.
Craig's decisive penalty served as a fitting conclusion to his Union II career. The Union Academy graduate signed off with the winning kick before departing for college, providing a memorable final contribution for the club.
Philadelphia Union II returns to MLS NEXT Pro action on Saturday evening as they face off against Columbus Crew 2 on July 18th.
