Union Dominate Run of Play, Settle for 1-1 Draw With Real Salt Lake

In a game in which the Philadelphia Union dominated possession for large portions and created numerous chances, Fabian Espindola scored a second-half equalizer to give Real Salt Lake a 1-1 draw at PPL Park. The draw preserves the Union’s undefeated record this year at PPL, but it was a game they deserved to win.

Philadelphia’s goal came off a header by Keon Daniel, who latched onto a cross from Michael Farfan during a period of play in which the Union easily could have scored four goals. The goal came in the 24th minute, but during the 22nd minute Sebastien Le Toux slotted a rebound into the back of the net as well; however, the linesman ruled Daniel, who had unleashed the original shot, to be offsides. Daniel would get his redemption, but both Carlos Valdes and Le Toux hit the post in the following five minutes or so.

All Real Salt Lake needed for their lone goal was a single counter-attacking move. Jean Alexandre won the ball at midfield from Michael Farfan, despite appearing to foul the Union midfielder. He played the ball to Espindola who beat two defenders and scored past Faryd Mondragon.

Peter Nowak attempted to recuperate his advantage by bringing on three attacking substitutes in Justin Mapp, Roger Torres, and Jack McInerney. But none of them were able to make a difference. McInerney appeared to earn a penalty kick in the 79th minute, but referee Jorge Gonzalez did not make a call.

The draw left the Union tied atop the Eastern Conference with the New York Red Bulls on 22 points, although Philly has played only 13 games and New York has played 14. The Union go back on the road next week as they travel to Empire Field to take on the Vancouver Whitecaps. Full match highlights are after the break.