Photo: seatgeek.com
The Union have had a busy schedule, but they took a well-deserved break before this weekend's matchup with Real Salt Lake. This game kicks off tonight at 7:30pm at Subaru Park!
What's been happening?
The Union left Atlanta with a dramatic 2-2 draw, where Mikael Uhre and Kai Wagner both found the back of the net. Although the small winning streak came to an end, the Union remain undefeated in MLS play.
Despite the break, there's still some news to be discussed from the Blue and Gold. First, the Union II have also started their season strong, and the second team announced the addition of Leandro Soria. Our friend Jimmy King of Philly Sports Network shared Coach LeBlanc's thoughts on the new striker.
Next, if you are going to the match tonight, Union Yards will be open to the public this afternoon. This project has been in the works for some time, and if you're not into the traditional Sons of Ben or parking lot tailgate, this might be your best option. The Club shared a teaser for the exciting new venue on Friday morning, and I will definitely be spending some match days here.
Finally, let's discuss the Union's roster for tonight's match. First, Andre Blake has returned to training, and Curtin seems to be optimistic about his keeper's health. I am, however, a bit hesitant to "rush" Andre back into net. Blake has been dealing with injuries all season long, while Oliver Semmle has been an excellent backup. Additionally, the rained-out Seattle match has been rescheduled for April 30th. As you may recall, the same Starting XI must be in the lineup due to MLS rules, and Andre is listed as the starting keeper. I wouldn't be opposed to letting Blake wait until Tuesday rather than giving him two matches within 3 days.
Next, Leon Flach has finally recovered as well, and he was involved in training this week. Unfortunately for Leon, the midfield has become crowded with Bedoya and Bueno in the mix, as well as McGlynn's consistency on the left side of the diamond. Either way, we know what Leon can bring on the defensive side, and I'd like to see how his game has improved with his body at 100%. Despite the good news about Flach, Damion Lowe has an ankle injury and will be a game-time decision.
Last but not least, there was a loan over the short break. Matt Real has been loaned to Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC of the USL. It feels like Matt has been part of the club forever, but with Kai Wagner's caliber, along with Harriel's versatility, it was clear that Real was the odd man out. I'm happy to see that he has a new opportunity to earn minutes.
Betting Notes
As always, I went to Action Network to shop the game, and to no surprise, the Union are clear favorites in Chester. Draft Kings has their Moneyline at -130, while FanDuel is posting the RSL Moneyline at +320. Personally, i rarely bet a line that is juicer than -130, but to each their own. I also bet to risk, not bet to win, in case you are wondering. Feel free to message me if you'd like more explanation into that.
As always, our Across the Pitch Team makes some bets, and we've done well so far this season. Dave in particular had himself two nice selections with the 2-2 score prediction and Wagner Anytime Goal against Atlanta. This week, Dave believes the Union net two more goals, and he is calling for a 2-0 win with McGlynn finding the back of the net.
Over the last three weeks, I have been trying safe and simple plays to keep the bankroll growing. Against Minnesota, I hit on the Union ML & Over 1.5 (-101) parlay, while the Tie No Bet selection over the previous two games has kept me in the green. I do believe the Union win tonight, and I think the same selection I had against Minnesota is a good option again. I know the Boys in Blue have been finding the back of the net lately, but Real Salt Lake can score as well. They have 15 goals on the season (Philly has 14), and they just put up 4 at Chicago. They have also scored 3 goals on two occasions this season, so this club can certainly score in bunches. Despite Philadelphia's record, they have been known to give up at least 1 goal to their competition, and I still struggle to see them consistently shutting out opponents. With all of that said, I am taking Union Moneyline & over 1.5 total goals at +105 on FanDuel. If by some chance the Union shut out RSL, I do still enjoy how Philly is scoring the ball of late, and I just hope the short break doesn't cool down their offensive output. I'll take Julian netting one as well.
Finally, here's some of FanDuel's Anytime Goal Scorers for tonight.
Gazdag: +115
Carranza: +120
Uhre: +160
Arango: +220
McGlynn: +600
Martinez: +1300
Let's see if the Boys in Blue have what it takes to keep their unbeaten streak alive at home! Doop.
Mike Barrera (Mbarrera1323 on TikTok and Twitter)