Kellan LeBlanc scored the only goal as Philadelphia Union II secured a 1-0 win over FC Cincinnati 2 on Sunday evening. The match, held shortly after the first team’s friendly against Eintracht Frankfurt, saw Union II take an early lead and rely on strong defensive play to maintain their advantage.
LeBlanc’s goal came in the second minute with a free kick from 20 yards out that struck the crossbar before finding the net. The midfielder nearly doubled his tally in the 24th minute but had his shot blocked by Andrei Chirilă.
Head Coach Ryan Richter’s lineup included several players who had featured against Frankfurt less than a day earlier. Pierce Holbrook started in goal, supported by defenders Isaiah LeFlore, Neil Pierre, Rafael Uzcátegui, and Giovanny Sequera. Oscar Benitez and captain Nick Pariano continued as defensive midfielders, while Markus Anderson and Kellan LeBlanc handled attacking duties. Forwards Malik Jakupovic and Leandro Soria rounded out the starting eleven.
Union II made several substitutions during the match. Jordan Griffin replaced Pierre in the 36th minute following his significant minutes against Frankfurt. Later changes brought on Eddy Davis III and Sal Olivas just before the hour mark.
FC Cincinnati 2 pressed for an equalizer late in the game but were denied by Holbrook, who made key saves in the final minutes to secure his fourth consecutive shutout.
Union II will next face New York Red Bulls II on Monday, August 11th at 7PM ET. The match will be available on MLS Season Pass via Apple TV.
“LeBlanc netted the game’s only goal of the match, delivering a perfectly place free kick from 20 yards out with his left that pinged off the crossbar and into the back of the net to set the tone early for the Boys in Blue.”
“Goalkeeper Pierce Holbrook responded however, making two late saves to extend his shutout streak to four-consecutive appearances.”
Union II continues its campaign near the top of MLS NEXT Pro’s Eastern Conference standings as it prepares for another crucial matchup next week.
