Philadelphia Union’s Struggles Continue with 2-1 Loss Against Toronto FC

The Philadelphia Union can’t seem to catch a break, as they notched another loss on Saturday night against Toronto FC. Despite grabbing an early lead, a tough second half saw them give it all away, culminating in a 2-1 defeat at BMO Field in Toronto.

Toronto FC nearly opened the scoring in the 17th minute with a shot from outside the penalty area that just missed the crossbar.

Kai makes the service and Tai delivers! ⚡️

Watch with #MLSSeasonPass on @appletv: https://t.co/5q1xTIigzc#DOOP | #TORvPHI 0-1 pic.twitter.com/RTkjDRSZBc

— Philadelphia Union (@PhilaUnion) July 14, 2024

The 39th minute brought some hope for the Union. Kai Wagner delivered a beautiful free kick from about 30 yards out, and Tai Baribo was right there to head it into the net. It was Baribo’s third goal of the season, putting the Philadelphia Union up 1-0 and boosting the team’s spirits.

But the second half was a different story. In the 73rd minute, disaster struck for the Union. Jack Elliott, attempting to defend a cross, accidentally deflected the ball into his own net, bringing the score to 1-1.

C-L-U-T-C-H https://t.co/zFEEMGPw5d pic.twitter.com/LCunTB4aVJ

— Toronto FC (@TorontoFC) July 14, 2024

The match turned increasingly physical, and in the 77th minute, the first yellow card was issued to Union’s Quinn Sullivan for shouldering Toronto FC’s goalkeeper, Sean Johnson. Just moments later, Toronto FC capitalized on their momentum. Deandre Kerr managed to find the back of the net, putting Toronto FC ahead 2-1 and sealing the Union’s fate.

Head coach Jim Curtin addressed the team’s struggles in his post-match press conference. “We’re playing with a 1-0 lead on the road, sometimes the best defense is to get that second or third but we didn’t do that.”

Curtin emphasized the need for the team to find ways to secure a win, stating, “We can’t make the plays right now to get us over the hump to get the win. We need to find ways to grind it out and get a win.” He also highlighted the impact of unforced errors: “We’ve had unforced errors and that one hurts. We have enough guys behind the ball to make plays, but it goes from being completely in control to completely out of control quickly.”

On a positive note, Curtin mentioned that Andre Blake could be available for Wednesday’s match. He also commented on Jesus Bueno’s performance and leadership: “He pushed as hard as he could. He fought for us and he’s been a leader and he wants to be part of things.” Regarding young talent Cavan Sullivan, Curtin added, “We wanted to bring him with the group. We weren’t able to have him ready. Hopefully he can be part of the 20 back in the states.”

With only four wins this season, the Philadelphia Union are now sitting at the bottom of the Eastern Conference Table. Their last victory dates all the way back to May 18th. It’s been a rough season, to say the least.

Next week, the boys in blue return home to play the New England Revolution on Wednesday July 17th, and fans are desperately hoping for a much-needed turnaround.

Key Takeaways:

• Philadelphia Union suffers another loss, 2-1, against Toronto FC at BMO Field.
• Tai Baribo scores his third goal of the season from a Kai Wagner free kick.
• Jack Elliott’s own goal in the 73rd minute levels the score.
• Deandre Kerr secures the win for Toronto FC in the 77th minute.
• The Union fall to the bottom of the Eastern Conference Table with only four wins this season.
• Next Match: New England Revolution on Wednesday July 17th at Subaru Park.