The regular season is over, the playoff tickets have been punched and now it’s time to find out what these Philadelphia Union are really made of. No more worrying about climbing the standings, no more talking about getting into the postseason; you’re in.
Now go do something with it.
The Union head to Foxborough on Saturday, November 21, to take on the New England Revolution in Game 1 of their best-of-three playoff series. Philly enters as the sixth seed, while New England sits at number three. And if you’re looking for a little extra motivation, how about the fact that the Revolution already beat the Union twice this season? Both games ended 2–1. Apparently, losing to these guys once wasn’t enough so now Philly gets an opportunity to make up for it when the games actually mean everything.
But here’s what gives me some hope.
This Union team didn’t exactly cruise through the season. They had to fight their way up the Eastern Conference standings, and they finished the regular season by putting four goals past Toronto FC in a 4–1 victory on Decision Day. That’s the kind of performance you want to carry into the playoffs. Of course, we’ve all seen Philadelphia teams look like world-beaters one week and then forget how to play their sport the next. So forgive me if I’m not ordering the championship parade floats just yet.
Three Keys to Beating New England
1. Stop Giving Away Cheap Goals
This is playoff soccer. You can’t afford defensive lapses, missed assignments or standing around watching the ball like you’re waiting for the SEPTA bus. The Union have to be organized defensively, especially against a New England team that’s already found ways to beat them twice. Make the Revolution earn everything. Don’t hand them opportunities on a silver platter.
2. Get the Attack Going Early
The Union can’t spend the first half feeling out New England like it’s some preseason friendly. They need to come out aggressive, move the ball, create chances and put pressure on the Revolution backline. Milan Iloski and the rest of the attacking group need to make their opportunities count. You don’t have to score on every possession, but for the love of everything holy, make the goalkeeper work for his paycheck.
3. Let the Young Guys Play Without Fear
One of the things I’ve enjoyed watching is the development of Cavan Sullivan and the younger players on this roster. These guys bring energy, creativity, and a willingness to take chances. That’s something you need in the postseason. I’m not saying throw the entire game plan out the window and let everybody run around like it’s recess, but don’t take away what makes these kids dangerous. Give them opportunities to make something happen.
No More Excuses
Here’s the deal: nobody is asking the Union to win the MLS Cup on November 21. They’re asking them to show up, compete and prove they belong in the conversation.
And while this is a best-of-three series, I don’t want to hear that Game 1 isn’t a must-win because they can always get New England back at Subaru Park on November 28. Screw that mentality. Go into their building, punch them in the mouth figuratively and make them come to Chester knowing they’re in for a fight.
The Union have already shown they can battle through adversity this season. Now they have to show they can beat a quality opponent when the pressure gets turned up.
New England got the better of Philly twice during the regular season. Congratulations. Somebody get them a participation trophy. Now it’s time to find out whether these Boys in Blue are just happy to be here or ready to make some noise.
Doop!
