On Saturday the Union traveled to Columbus, OH with hopes of a victory against the Crew. The game resulted in a 1-1 draw but being that the Union have never won at Columbus Crew Stadium, this was a small achievement for the team. The Union now aim attention to winning in their upcoming match against Toronto FC today at 4:00pm.
The match against the Crew was considerably suspenseful with the Union in the lead for the majority of the game. Like we have frequently seen throughout the season, the Union looked excellent in the first 45 minutes of play. Coming into this game coach John Hackworth had to make a tough decision as to who he would start up top as forwards. He decided on Conor Casey accompanied by Jack McInerney. Not only did Casey play exceptionally well in the previous game against the New York Red Bulls, but he scored an astounding goal. Although this decision left Sebastien Le Toux on the bench, it was the right move in my eyes. This season Le Toux has simply not been playing to his full potential. McInerney has really stepped up this season and has scored three goals in the five games in which he has played. Playing Casey and McInerney was just the clearest option.
In the 34th minute Danny Cruz had a breakaway up the right side of the field, dribbling the ball up to the box while McInerney ran alongside him. When Cruz reached the top of the box he passed the ball to McInerney who effortlessly shot the ball and scored. The Union created a fair amount of chances in the first half. In the beginning of the second half the Union continued to create goal scoring opportunities. Unfortunately in the 72nd minute the Columbus Crew’s Dominic Oduro scored tying up the game. After the Crew’s goal the Union defense seemed to fall apart, allowing the Crew to create many chances. By chance neither team scored another goal and the game ended with a draw. Grabbing one point the Union now find themselves placed 5th in the eastern conference with 7 points, Columbus Crew is 4th with 8 points.
Now looking forward to the Toronto FC game, it is hard to predict what we will see from Toronto. Any previous views on the team can only be disregarded because they are a completely new squad with a totally new lineup and coach. It is hard to predict who will be starting but I wouldn’t be surprised if Conor Casey nabs another position in the starting lineup. The Union are going to need height in their forward line to take on former Union captain, Danny Califf who we all know is an extremely aggressive defender. We might also see the newest addition to the team, midfielder Jose Kleberson who the Union has just acquired from Esporte Clube Bahia. The Union made part with forward Freddy Adu, in return for Kleberson who has an impressive career record. Although it is hard to estimate what to expect from Toronto the Union know that they cannot underestimate this team based on their play from last year. They need to get a win and prevent Toronto from moving up in the Eastern conference. Toronto is now sitting 6th on the table, right below the Union who are placed at 5th. This game is crucial for the Union if they want to advance in the league.
