A crowd of 16k urges Union to 1-0 win over defending MLS Cup champs

612 days.

It had been 612 days since the last time Subaru Park held a big crowd for a Philadelphia Union contest. For nearly two years much of the Union faithful had to support their club from their couches. As the Union went on to have their best season in club history, capturing the Supporters’ Shield as the top point earners in the regular season, the fans were not there for it in large numbers.

The last time a max capacity crowd filled Subaru Park, the Union were a team looking for their first ever playoff victory. On October 20, 2019, The Union went down 3-1 in the first half to the NY Red Bulls. It looked like the Union were once again going to go another year without a playoff victory, but something special happened. With their rabid fanbase behind them, the Union rallied with two second half goals, eventually winning their first ever playoff game in extra time.

When the news was revealed that June 23 against Columbus: “SUBARU PARK IS BACK TO FULL CAPACITY!” it almost didn’t feel real. After nearly two years the Union faithful were back and ready to make a difference for the team they love once again. Just as they did that night on October 20, 2019, the fans in Subaru Park willed their beloved team to a victory, this time a hard earned 1-0 victory over defending MLS Cup champs Columbus.

Jamiro Monteiro’s goal in the 24th minute was the difference for the Union on the scoreboard.

A lovely low strike from just outside of the box, Monteiro’s early goal alongside some great defending was enough to give the Union the victory. It wasn’t just the Union’s fantastic No. 10 from Cape Verde who made the difference for Philadelphia. Everyone in that stadium, including head coach Jim Curtin knew that the now full capacity home crowd played a massive role in the Union’s victory.

“They actually are a huge reason, more than they know, for us taking three points tonight so I can’t thank them enough,” Curtin said about the crowd, which wasn’t a sell-out but was listed as 16,234. “Our fans are the lifeblood of our club so to have them all in the building was special. We hope that will only build as we get some weekend games in here.”

Unfortunately, the Union fans will have to wait a little longer to see their favorite team in action at Subaru Park again.

The next home match will be on July 17 against D.C. United. For a fanbase who patiently waited 612 days to fill their stadium, you best believe in 24 days Subaru Park will be filled with loyal Union supporters eager to cheer their team on to victory once again.