The Philadelphia Union make a trip up to Canada this Saturday to face Toronto FC at BMO Field. The Union are coming off the first multi-goal game of the season. Last Saturday they defeated the Chicago Fire at PPL Park in front of a near sell-out crowd of 18,372. Michael Farfan made his first start in the Union’s midfield and recorded his first professional goal. Shortly after that the Fire tied it up. Then Carlos Ruiz, who was return to the starting XI after being left out against FC Dallas, hit a turnaround left footed blast from 30-35 yards out that beat the keeper, hit the underside of the crossbar and went in for
what proved to be the game winning goal. This was Ruiz’s 3rd goal of the season and will probably be up for goal of the year. That 2-1 victory extended the Philadelphia’s undefeated home record.
The Union are hoping to build upon that win and improve their dismal road record which is 1-3-0. The Union have lost their last 3 road matches and haven’t scored a goal in any of those games. Last season Philadelphia lost 2-1 to Toronto at BMO Field on a late PK after playing most of the game down a man due to then captain Danny Califf receiving a red card in the 34th minute. The Union currently sit 2nd in the Eastern Conference tied on points with RBNY and behind on goal difference, but the Union have a game in hand.
Toronto FC are 7th in the East with 12 points from 12 games. Their home record is 2-1-4. In Toronto’s last 3 matches they have 2 draws and 1 loss. Maicon Santos leads them in scoring with 3 goals off of 20 shots. Toronto’s defense has been week this season. They have conceded 17 goals. Only DC United and Sporting KC have allowed more goals. This game is the perfect opportunity for the Union to improve their road record and give their offense some more confidence.
