Philly Leader

Gavin Wetzel scored in stoppage time, but a late penalty kick saw Philadelphia Union II fall to Columbus Crew 2 on Sunday evening.

The Eastern Conference-leading Union II fielded a different lineup due to David Vazquez's participation with the U.S. Under-20 Men's Youth National Team for the 2024 Concacaf Men's U-20 Championship in Mexico. Additionally, Frankie Westfield, CJ Olney, and Andrew Rick were included in the Union’s Leagues Cup matchday roster on Saturday night. The changes resulted in Jamir Berdecio shifting to left back while Nick Pariano took on a more attacking role in midfield alongside team captain Kyle Tucker. The front three featured homegrown Cavan Sullivan just behind Markus Anderson and Eddy Davis III.

Union II aimed to pressure the Crew’s backline with constant pressing from Davis and Anderson, creating direct scoring chances and earning early corner kicks. Tucker whipped in a cross that was cleared out, but a quick throw-in saw Sullivan attempt to score inside Historic Crew Stadium, only to be stopped by a diving save.

Philly’s defense created another scoring chance in the 21st minute as homegrown Nick Pariano gathered possession and took a left-footed shot inside the 18-yard box. Stanislav Lapkes made the save but continued facing pressure from Union II. In another attacking wave, Tucker backheeled a pass to Davis for a one-timer that was again saved by the Columbus goalkeeper.

Union II continued their offensive efforts with an attack up the left flank sending Anderson into the box for another saved shot. A rebound led to another chance for Davis, whose headed attempt was off target.

Columbus managed their first significant scoring opportunity in the 36th minute with Owen Presthus taking a shot that was saved by Mike Sheridan. The breakthrough came shortly after when Presthus led a counterattack and delivered a cross that Anthony Alaouieh headed into the net at the 39th minute mark.

Union II pushed hard for an equalizer before halftime but narrowly missed converting opportunities.

In the second half, Philly's persistence paid off with an equalizing goal from Eddy Davis III following a counterattack initiated by Makhanya and Pierre at the top of Union’s box.

Both teams sought go-ahead goals with close chances thwarted by offsides calls and defensive blocks. Head Coach Marlon LeBlanc introduced fresh legs after an hour of play which helped disrupt Columbus' attacks through midfield.

Columbus regained their lead in the 79th minute when Jayden Da scored shortly after being substituted onto the pitch. Philly responded with further substitutions aiming to exploit Columbus' tiring defense. End-to-end action culminated in Da receiving consecutive yellow cards resulting in his ejection at full-time's edge.

With numerical advantage on-field, Union II equalized again during stoppage time through Gavin Wetzel’s first MLS NEXT Pro goal following precise assists from Sullivan and Makhanya.

However, momentum shifted once more as Adrián González earned Columbus one final penalty kick opportunity seconds before full-time which Gibran Rayo converted past Sheridan securing Crew 2's victory over Union II who now return home facing FC Cincinnati next Friday afternoon August 2nd aiming regaining form against top conference competitors.