Staff
Last season was by no means a bad campaign for Philadelphia Union.
Sixth in the Eastern conference standings saw Jim Curtain’s side squeeze into the playoffs and although defeat in the first round to New York City (3-1) meant it was an early exit for Union, the fact that they even made it that far should be applauded.
However, as the new MLS season is starting to find its rhythm, there is belief inside the camp that they are more than capable of going much further in the end of season playoffs.
Admittedly, when it comes to the outright betting for the MLS Cup, Philadelphia Union do not feature too highly in the rankings.
That means the best place to get immediate value is through live betting using the Novibet in-play function, but that does not mean they should be disregarded completely as there are three very good reasons why.
Continuity is key
Manager Jim Curtin is now in his fifth year of management at Philadelphia Union and with three Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup runner up positions to his name whilst in charge, it shows that Union have the mettle to handle knockout football.
Or rather up until the final at least.
Yes, defeats to Seattle Sounders (2014), Sporting Kansas City (2015) and Houston Dynamo in last year’s final has shown a weakness in getting over the line, but the mere fact that the club are capable of even getting that far is a sign there is more quality in the club that many may realise.
Curtin is a man eager to deliver some silverware despite enjoying what is deemed the most successful spell in the club’s short history and with an in-depth knowledge of his squad, and proven ability in the knockout format, if he can just get his side to the playoffs then anything can happen.
Accam’s Found his form
One issue for Union last season was a lack of an out and out goal scorer.
Forty-nine goals in thirty-four games was hardly prolific and coupled with an at times lackluster defense, actually left the club with a negative goal difference despite squeezing into the playoffs.
However, one man has taken it upon himself to change that this season in a remarkable turn around in form.
Ghanaian International David Accam has shown Union what he can do scoring three times in just four MLS appearances this season.
When you consider he scored just once in twenty-three outings last season (although he was a sub much of the time), it is not hard to see that if he can maintain this trend, then Union have a real chance of winning every time they take to the field.
Consistent start to the season
After Union’s five games, two wins, two defeats and a draw has been recorded to leave Curtin’s side 4th at the time of writing.
It may not be spectacular, but it is a solid enough platform to build upon for the long season ahead.
Union may not boast the stars of the likes of D.C. United or Los Angeles Galaxy, however, teamwork more than makes up for that and Philadelphia undoubtedly have a team they can be proud of which are capable of ruffling a few feathers this season.
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