What's been happening?
The Union ended their two-game road trip with a second consecutive shutout. This time, they earned a road draw at Charlotte. The Union's defense has been a major issue all season, but earning two shutouts on the road is no small feat. We have also seen the resurgence of Leon Flach, who has been playing like a man possessed since his return. Finally, with so many question marks around the centerback position, we've found some stability with Jack Elliott. Based on the last two games, we have a feeling Leon and Elliott will be more involved as this team tries to recapture their defensive identity.
Next, we have some international news from the Club. On Tuesday, it was announced that the Union have bought a 10% ownership stake in Lyngby Boldklub, the former club of Sanders Ngabo. Jose Nunez shared some information regarding the purchase, as well as Curtin's thoughts during the mid-week press conference.
We have more news from overseas, this time regarding Richard Odada. His loan has come to an end, and we are all curious as to how Odada will be used next. Considering this club's lack of depth, another body thrown into the mix couldn't hurt, although the midfield is beginning to get very crowded.
Finally, we have some health updates from Tuesday's press conference. Andre Blake had surgery on his knee, and he will be out for 4-6 weeks. Curtin mentioned that there was a minor tear to the meniscus, but it has since been cleaned up with the operation. For now, Semmle will be spending significant time in net, with Andrew Rick waiting patiently behind him.
Jim also commented on Flach's recent form, and he was very complimentary to the last few games from Leon. With that said, Jose Martinez will be available for selection on Wednesday. Considering the last two shutouts, along with Jose's up and down season, I wouldn't be opposed to seeing Flach again in the 6.
Lastly, international duty is just around the corner, and multiple players will be departing from the club after the Saturday fixture against Montreal.
Betting Notes
Jose, Dave, and I had zero luck betting on the Charlotte match, but we are looking to get back on track as the Union try to extend their unbeaten streak to three against Toronto FC.
Toronto and Philadelphia sit in the bottom half of the playoff picture, at 6th and 8th respectively. The two teams are separated by four points, so a win could certainly go a long way in the standings. Toronto has been in a bit of a slump as well, as they've lost three of their last four matches. Their most recent defeat came at home when Cincinniati left with a 4-3 win.
Last year, the two clubs split the season series, and they combined for a total of 10 goals between the two matches. This might be the trend again tomorrow when you look at the season totals. Philly has netted 25 goals, and thanks to their last two results, have kept their goals against to 21. For Toronto, they have allowed and scored 24 goals on the year. I know this is a new season, but this one feels like it could be a high scoring affair, similar to last year.
Jose and Dave agree with this assessment, and they're pushing for a Union win. Jose is looking for a 2-1 win with a Carranza brace, while Dave has this slated for a 3-1 win with an Uhre brace, and Sullivan netting the third.
On Saturday, I went for the under 3.5 goals & under 11.5 total corners. Although the goals easily hit, we saw 13 corners in that scoreless game. Tough one there. For tonight, the Union are heavy favorites here. Caesars has their line at -170, while BetRivers is showing Toronto at +500. Considering the Union's current home form, that number is enticing for the visitors. Finally, the draw is showing as +320 on Fan Duel, and the over 2.5 is -182 on FanDuel as well.
On Saturday, we expected a low scoring contest and got just that. Tonight, with the Union going for a third unbeaten match in a row, let's get a little daring with a 3-leg parlay. I'll go with Union Moneyline (-195), over 2.5 total goals (-182), and Both Teams to Score : Yes (-166) for a +172 payout. As I said above, these two teams like to score. I wouldn't be surprised if we saw two goals in the first half alone. As you all know, I don't typically go for more than a 2-leg parlay, but why not test the waters a bit. I don't have a specific goal scorer today, but I do think Sullivan is due for one.
As always, some of the FanDuel Anytime Goal Scorers are below:
Gazdag: -110
Carranza: -105
Uhre: +130
Sullivan: +260
Flach: +950
Wagner: +1500
Glesnes: +1900
The Union are hitting international duty soon, and they desparetly need to string together a few strong performances before some of their roster heads out. Doop!
Mike Barrera (Mbarrera1323 on TikTok & Twitter)