After a bye week, Philadelphia Union II is back in action against New England Revolution II on Sunday afternoon. Kick off is set for 3PM from Mark A. Ouellette Stadium and will be broadcast for free on MLSNEXTPro.com.
Union II has proven so far in 2024 that age is just a number, fielding the youngest side in MLS NEXT Pro while leading the Eastern Conference in points earned per game. Sitting three points behind leaders Chattanooga FC but with two fewer games played. Despite the lack of age, Union II has been remarkable as a defensive unit with a conference best eight goals allowed.
Before their bye week, Head Coach Marlon LeBlanc's side earned a 2-0 home win against Huntsville City FC on May 5th to extend their home unbeaten streak. The Boys in Blue turned in a dominant performance but had to wait until the 79th minute to break open the scoring. Giovanny Sequera came off the bench to set up a perfect pass to CJ Olney for a smooth finish while Vice Captain Frankie Westfield converted from the penalty spot late to wrap up the scoring. Union II has been
Sunday's matchup is the second time the two sides have squared off in 2024, with Union II grabbing a 2-1 comeback home win in late March. New England earned the early lead behind a Alex Monis goal but the Boys in Blue battled back with Kyle Tucker’s cross deflecting off Revs II defender Hesron Barry. The final half saw four members of Philadelphia Union Academy make their club debuts with Cavan Sullivan setting up the game winner with a perfectly placed pass to spring Olivas in the 81st minute for the far post finish.
After making the postseason in 2023, Revs II are off to a slow start with 11 points through eight matches. Defense has been with culprit with 17 goals allowed which ranks second most in the East. Despite the amount of goals allowed, it has led to offensive chances for Richie Williams' side. Marcos Diaz will be certainly a player to keep an eye on as the 22-year-old forward leads the team with five assists along with three goals. Dias is joined by Monis and Jack Panayotou for the team lead in scoring, at three as well.
