The Philadelphia Union look to get back into the win column tonight when they go up against Brek Shea and the rest of FC Dallas who sit second in the Western Conference with 42 points from 24 games. Philadelphia is coming off a period in which they played 3 matches in 9 days and only managed to pick up 2 points.
The drop in form coincided with the departure of their leading goal scorer, Carlos Ruiz. Yesterday the Union announced the signing of US International Freddy Adu on a free transfer from Portuguese side Benfica. Adu while only 22 is a 8 year veteran having debut for DC United at the age of 14. Philadelphia will be hoping that this addition will add a spark to their sputtering offense.
FC Dallas are coming off a road loss to the LA Galaxy when the fell 3-1 to the league’s top team at the Home Depot Center last Saturday. Midfielder Marvin Chavez scored Dallas’ lone goal in that match and has scored the last 4 goals that FC Dallas recorded. Newly signed Maicon Santos recorded his first assist for Dallas on his debut. Brek Shea’s strong performances this year earned him a call up to the USMNT for this past Wednesday’s match versus Mexico that was played in Philadelphia. Shea earned an assist and played very well coming off the bench in that match. FC Dallas has earned 15 points on the road but have conceded 16 goals in their 11 games away from home while only netting 13.
Philadelphia has yet to beat Dallas. Earlier this season FC Dallas topped the Union 2-0 on goals from Shea and Fabian Castillo. Both teams will be looking to pick up the 3 points on offer tonight to help the push for the lead in their respective divisions.
(image courtesy of Greg Carroccio)
