Thoughts on the Union’s draw with Toronto

The Union’s 1-1 draw with Toronto was another reminder of both the strengths and flaws that have defined their season. There were glimpses of quality, moments of frustration, and signs of promise for the future, all wrapped into a night that left plenty to think about. Here are some key points to digest:

Union Still Relies Too Much on Opponent Mistakes
The Union’s attack once again looked short of ideas unless Toronto gave them something to work with. While their only goal came from a well-worked buildout, it was far too rare across the match, and has been all season. At times, we see flashes of brilliant passing moves with quick give-and-gos and sharp one-touch play, but they only happen once or twice before fading away. It makes you wonder if these goals are a credit to their style or if they simply benefit from opponents giving them too much space. Given the track record of MLS defending, the answer seems obvious.

When the opposing side doesn’t give the ball away in their half, the Union struggles to create. Tonight was no exception. Kai Wagner’s crosses became predictable, leaving their main source of creativity frustrated. With no consistent service to the forwards and a formation lacking a true No. 10, the Union is bound to face challenges in breaking down organized defenses.

Milan Iloski makes his Union debut
Summer signing Milan Iloski got his first minutes for the Union, coming off the bench in the second half. Despite his impressive goals-to-minutes ratio in MLS, he struggled to get involved in the flow of play. The second half was choppy, and the lack of rhythm left him without a chance to produce a standout moment. Fans will have to wait for a better occasion to see what he can truly bring to the attack.

Missing the Curtin days?
Although the Union has been one of the most consistent sides this season, there’s still something that feels missing. Time and again, they’ve taken a 1-0 lead, found early chances, or scored inside the opening minutes, but rarely have they gone on to dismantle an opponent. Fans remember the Jim Curtin era when the Union would put teams away 4, 5, 6, or even 7-0. Those squads showed their teeth when the moment called for it.

Current coach Bradley Carnell hasn’t quite found that killer instinct with this roster. Consistent results are valuable, but this team often lacks the final blow that sets them apart. Goals no longer pour down at Subaru Park like they once did. Part of it comes down to personnel. Under Curtin, Daniel Gazdag thrived in a role that perfectly suited him, and Julian Carranza went from hidden gem to lethal finisher. Carnell’s change in formation and Gazdag’s sale shifted the attack, and while he’s getting the most out of the group he has, there was a special kind of magic in the air a few seasons ago that’s hard to replicate.

Keeping the Bigger Picture in Mind
Ignorance can be bliss. Casual fans see the standings, Baribo sitting among the league’s top scorers, exciting new signings, and an energized Subaru Park, and they’re satisfied. Diehards, though, know what’s coming: the playoffs. The Union’s history is filled with late-season runs that fall just short against the league’s top sides. To the casual fan, those shortcomings might go unnoticed, but for those who live and breathe this club, they linger.

Still, sometimes it’s worth taking a step back and appreciating the bigger picture. This is Bradley Carnell’s first season, and most supporters were skeptical about replacing Jim Curtin. The all-time leading scorer, Daniel Gazdag, left for a conference rival, yet the Union has hardly been rattled by the move. Jean-Jacques and Lukić have developed into one of the most reliable midfield duos in MLS. Tai Baribo has emerged as a legitimate star with name recognition across the league. Subaru Park remains packed on matchdays, ownership has invested more in the squad than in years past, and the club now boasts brand-new facilities along the riverfront that will benefit the team for years to come.

Winning an MLS Cup is never guaranteed. It is a privilege. And while the Union still has plenty to improve, there is also plenty to be grateful for.