The Philadelphia Union’s worst moments in 2016

The Union made the playoffs for just the second time in their seven year history but the journey ultimately left both the club and fans disappointed. The team peaked in June but then crashed hard the last two months of the season, barely hanging on to the last playoff spot. The highs of the early season were drowned by the second half lows and while one could argue progress was made, there are still many questions left to answer and a return to form is not guaranteed.

While it feels better to think back on the good times, it’s the bad times that teach valuable lessons and make us a stronger fan base – so review we must. Six writers took the time to agonize just a little bit before turning the page to the New Year.

Douglas Gobrecht Define "moment". Because for 2 months they had some pretty bad moments. The Hitchcockian nightmare that was August through October is easily the worst moment of 2016. The longest, most dreadful, never-ending, horror moment.

Matt Ralph The Maidana free kick goal in Houston. It's bad enough losing to Houston but even worse on a set piece from a former player deep into stoppage time on a foul drawn by another former player (Andrew Wenger).

Alex Klein Tranquillo Barnetta and Vincent Nogueira both leaving at various points of the season. I believe both served as captain during games season and I know they were both fan favorites, so losing two leaders like that is very hard.

Jared Young Nogueira leaving was my moment. The season was going well and then this news shocked the base and I'm sure the team. After that moment the season went downhill and never recovered.

John Adair I'd have to say Nogueira leaving as well. Despite the Bedoya signing, this group desperately missed his presence in midfield, and the results following his departure speak for themselves.

Eugene Rupinski I'll go a different route and say the 5-1 beating at the hands of Montreal. The Union had already lost first place in the East, however there was optimism that they could regain that and contend – until Montreal just put an absolute ass-kicking on the Union. That's when it became apparent that the club was in deep trouble and that the post-season was not a guarantee.

It certainly good to know that the preseason 1-0 loss to Jacksonville Armada is a distant memory for everyone. Any other terrible moments we should ponder? Please add yours to the comments section.

Happy New Year everyone!