Currently the top team in MLS Next Pro, these up and coming players have all the momentum
If you haven’t been to a Union II game this season, you are missing out. One could relate it to attending minor league baseball games, where you get to see the future of the franchise and players working to make it to the next level. I remember in the early 2000s seeing Chase Utley playing at the Phillies AAA affiliate Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Red Barons and thinking about the talent that ballplayer had and that he was going to make it to the bigs (which he of course did, and became a legend). I get a similar feeling going to the Union II games. The games are fun, fast paced, and these young men show immense talent. They even have a growing fan base of their own and a supporter group, the Bridge Brigade.
One thing is for certain: this team is all vibes right now. Union II sit not only in first in the East, but they are at the top of the MLS Next Pro overall standings with 23 points and a record of 6-1-3. On Sunday, the squad traveled to Montclair State University to face New York Red Bulls II and came away with a resounding 5-1 victory. Eddy Davis opened the scoring, and David Vazquez and Markus Anderson each had a brace.
Davis had his fifth goal of the season as he continues a strong campaign, and has been twice named MLS Next Pro “Rising Star of the Month.” Vazquez, who was recently signed to a homegrown contract with the first team, showed why with the goals he netted. His goal in the 83′ on a set piece went low to the ground, through two teammates’ legs, and bent into the goal at the far post. That goal would end up being voted “Goal of the Matchweek.”
Anderson, another first team player, returned from injury and looked in fine form. His diving header for his first goal was fantastic. Goalkeeper Andrew Rick, recently signed to the first team, allowed one goal but was strong in net as usual. Frankie Westfield, Kyle Tucker, CJ Olney, and Sanders Ngabo each recorded an assist.
Circling back to the Phillies references again, the team that has been the best in baseball, you can see some similarities. The players are having fun, believe in each other, and are buying into what the coaching staff are doing. There isn’t the “daycare” but there are “free hugs [juice drinks]” from the Bridge Brigade post-game. They are also executing when it comes to game play. A lot of praise should be directed to the Union II staff, led by coach Marlon LeBlanc. With his strong team and track record, I would not be surprised if LeBlanc is courted by other organizations looking to add him to their staff. He is certainly an asset to the Union.
It is plain to see that something special is being built from the Academy on up to Union II, which has led to young phenoms like Jack McGlynn, Quinn Sullivan, Nate Harriel, the Aaronson brothers, and more. 14 year old Cavan Sullivan, recently signed to the first team and with a future at Manchester City, is getting international buzz and is being touted as an immense talent. There are also other young talents to keep an eye on. We recently interviewed vice captain of Union II, defender Frankie Westfield, and center back Neil Pierre. They give some great insight to what it is like coming up through the Academy and playing under Coach LeBlanc, Coach Jim Curtin, and alongside the first team- a place they could end up in the future? Only time will tell.
Union II next face Columbus Crew II at Subaru Park on Sunday, June 2 at 6:00 PM. We will see you there!
The One Team We Agree On 
Leave a comment