The Union’s MLS NEXT Pro affiliate takes down Toronto FC II 2-1 in their home opener, and the newly formed Bridge Brigade supporter group makes its debut at Subaru Park.
On a beautiful day in Chester, the Philadelphia Union II squad took on Toronto FC II in their first match of the season. The squad featured up and coming players in the Union’s system, including four first team players in Jamir Berdecio, Olwethu Makhanya, Sanders Ngabo, and Nick Pariano. Additionally, Frankie Westfield, Eddy Davis III, Neil Pierre, David Vazquez, Sal Olivas, goalkeeper Andrew Rick, and captain Kyle Tucker rounded out the starting XI.
It looked like the Union II were going to strike first with a goal from Kyle Tucker in the 25th minute, however that goal was called off due to interference. Toronto FC II would get the first goal in the 41st minute. The Union II scored the equalizer in the 51st minute off a corner, served by David Vazquez to Frankie Westfield, who headed the ball in for the goal. Just a few minutes later, the Union II would take the lead via a goal by Eddy Davis, and held off Toronto FC II to seal the 2-1 win.
If you haven’t been to a Union II game, you are missing out. For one, you get to see the homegrown players and guys that have not quite broken through with the first team and have mainly served as backups. If you have gone to minor league baseball games, for example, it is much like that experience. I can remember seeing Chase Utley playing in AAA before he made his Major League debut, and it being clear he had what it took to make it to the next level. In a few short years, he was a “world ****ing champion!” It is exciting to watch them and think, could some of these players make an impact on the first team and/or go on to success elsewhere (we hope with the Union though). The first team players showed a lot of skill and promise, and it was good to see what guys like Olwethu Makhanya and Neil Pierre can do, given the fact that the first team’s center back situation has been surprisingly shaky so far. If you missed it, be sure to check out our interview with Neil Pierre for more on him and his time with Union II.
The match also marked the debut of the Bridge Brigade supporter group at Subaru Park. The Union II had enjoyed support from a loyal and very vocal group of fans, but now the group is official and is looking to increase the fan base and game day support for Union II. The group can be found in section 104- not that you could miss them with their spirited chants and commentary. Since the noise level during the game is very low, you can hear everything coming from the stands, and the Bridge Brigade will let the opposing players hear it with constant heckling. They will pick a nearby player to give a hard time about his hair, or his shorts… or looking like an old man (New England game last year… looking at you, 41). You will hear them thank announcer Kevin Casey when he makes announcements, and Kevin waves down every time. They show their love for goalkeeper Andrew Rick when he kicks off or makes a play. They have a tradition of tossing out “hugs” juice drinks to the players at the end of the game.
The game had some other appearances in the decently sized crowd (for a Union II game). The Sons of Ben’s new feline mascot, Ben Reaney aka BR, was with the Bridge Brigade crew, mostly watching from the comfort of a cat backpack. First teamer Quinn Sullivan, back from Austin, was in the crowd, along with his highly touted younger brother, Cavan, who is rumored to be signing with Manchester City. CJ Olney did not feature with the team and was in the stands as well.
Union II’s next home game is Sunday, March 24th at 3:00 PM versus New England Revolution II. With the Union being away at Portland the night before, it is a good opportunity for fans to come out and support the squad. Tickets are inexpensive, parking is free, and the game experience is fun. I encourage anyone who has not been to a game to check it out and see for themselves what an enjoyable time it can be! The Bridge Brigade certainly is helping to get the word out, and hopefully the support will continue to grow throughout the season.
Photos by Jillian Almoney except where noted. “Blame Canada” photo courtesy of Philadelphia Union II.
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