Philly Leader

Philadelphia Union II's 2024 season ended with a narrow defeat to North Texas SC in the MLS NEXT Pro Cup, concluding with a scoreline of 3-2. Union II started strongly, with Markus Anderson and Eddy Davis III scoring within the first 20 minutes. However, North Texas SC, leaders of the regular season standings, equalized in the second half with two goals over a span of 16 minutes.

The match became more challenging for Union II when defender Olwethu Makhanya was sent off in the final 15 minutes for denying a goalscoring opportunity. The numerical disadvantage proved costly as North Texas SC secured victory with a stoppage-time goal.

Union II maintained consistency by fielding an unchanged Starting XI and matchday squad for three consecutive matches. Despite facing the undefeated Western Conference Champions at home, Union II initially took control of the game. Markus Anderson intercepted a back pass from North Texas SC's defense and set up CJ Olney for an early scoring chance.

In the ninth minute, Anderson scored after receiving a headed pass from David Vazquez following Cavan Sullivan's cross. Nine minutes later, Davis extended their lead after regaining possession and firing past North Texas SC's goalkeeper.

North Texas SC responded before halftime but could not capitalize on their chances until Logan Farrington converted a free kick in the 51st minute to make it 2-1. As tensions rose, coach Marlon LeBlanc made tactical changes by bringing on Jamir Berdecion and shifting formations.

Herbert Endeley's cross allowed Enes Sali to equalize for North Texas SC. Following Makhanya's red card dismissal, Andrew Rick defended Union II's goal valiantly but couldn't prevent Pedrinho from scoring in stoppage time to secure victory for North Texas SC.