Tim McDermott President, Chief Business Officer | Philadelphia Union
Tim McDermott President, Chief Business Officer | Philadelphia Union
Philadelphia Union Academy midfielder Kellan LeBlanc had a notable first MLS NEXT Pro start, scoring twice in Union II's 4-2 defeat to Toronto FC II. Following a one-hour weather delay in Toronto, Union II fielded a revamped lineup. LeBlanc and Jamir Johnson made their first starts as amateurs in MLS NEXT Pro, joining Nick Pariano and Carlos Rojas in midfield. The defense saw the return of center back Olwethu Makhanya alongside Neil Pierre, with Jamir Berdecio and Gavin Wetzel as outside backs, and Mike Sheridan as goalkeeper. The attack was led by Leandro Soria, who returned after a two-goal performance that earned him MLS NEXT Pro Player of the Matchweek recognition.
LeBlanc created the first scoring opportunity early on by intercepting a poor pass from Toronto's Abraham Rodriguez but was fouled by Charlie Staniland, resulting in the game's first booking. Despite standing over the ball for a free kick with Soria, LeBlanc's shot went just over the goal.
Toronto FC II capitalized on their first chance when Richard Chukwu set up Jesús Batiz for a goal. Ythallo doubled Toronto's lead with a header off Julian Altobelli's corner kick. Philadelphia sought to respond quickly through Pariano but failed to convert several opportunities.
In the second half, Head Coach Marlon LeBlanc substituted Sal Olivas for Soria. Union II dominated early chances and finally scored in the 50th minute when LeBlanc volleyed home his first MLS NEXT Pro goal following assists from Olivas and Anderson.
Union II equalized at 2-2 shortly after when Anderson set up LeBlanc for his second goal of the match. However, Toronto regained the lead via an Altobelli penalty after he was fouled by Makhanya. Needing another goal, Coach LeBlanc brought on leading scorer Eddy Davis III along with Academy players Diego Rocio and Jordan Griffin.
Toronto sealed their victory with Charles Sharp forcing a turnover that allowed Hassan Ayari to score shortly after entering the pitch. Zach Mastrodimos made his MLS NEXT Pro debut late in the game for Union II.
Despite continuous efforts from Union II, they could not overcome Toronto’s second two-goal lead and lost all three points to their hosts.
Union II will next face Columbus Crew 2 at home on Monday, August 26th at Subaru Park with kickoff scheduled for 6 PM ET.
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