Chester, PA

December 5, 2021

The week before the MLS East Final Game started out well enough for the Union.  They were to face NYCFC at home, and a red card against Valentín “Taty” Castellanos in the prior week’s game against the New England Revolution meant that NYCFC would be without its Golden Boot winner for the game against Philadelphia.  As time elapsed, however, things began looking very, very bad for Philadelphia.  At least half of Philadelphia’s starting lineup had entered the League’s health and safety protocols, jeopardizing their participation in the playoff game.

As it turned out, COVID-19 prevented 11 Union players from playing in the MLS East Final, including its captain, Alejandro Bedoya, star defenders Jakob Glesnes, Kai Wagner and Jack Elliott, and goalkeeper Andre Blake. Coach Jim Curtin put on a good face and remained optimistic, but the reality was that COVID sapped the guts from the team.  Philadelphia scrounged 3 players for short-term contracts and engaged the league emergency backup goalkeeper.

Union fans turned out to support their beleaguered team and were rewarded with a tireless effort by Philadelphia.  Philadelphia scored the first in the 63rd minute.  NYCFC came back quickly in the 65th minute with a shot by Maximiliano Moralez, assisted by Ismael Tajouri-Shradi.  The score stood at 1-1 until the end of regulation when NYCFC’s Talles Magno scored from close range, assisted by Gudmundur Thórarinsson, and the game ended at 1-2.

Photographs appear below:

Philadelphia’s Jack McGlynn continues to play well beyond his years.

Leon Flach following the ball.

Daniela Gazdag closely covering, but not touching, NYCFC’s Maxime Chanot.

NYCFC’s Alexander Callens bringing the ball down by himself.

NYCFC’s Santiago Rodríguez is hounded by Philadelphia’s McGlynn.

Philadelphia’s Jamiro Monteiro leaning into NYCFC’s Malte Amundsen.

Philadelphia’s José Martínez getting the better of NYCFC’s Talles Magno.

The Union’s Nathan Harriel had a great game, seen here with Ismael Tajouri-Shradi.

The Union goal, which was scored an own goal by Callens.

After NYCFC’s send goal, Talles Magno tries to silence the home crowd.