The Philadelphia Union Might Have A Serious Problem
In 2022, the Philadelphia Union seemed to be at the top of the US Soccer world. They were in the MLS Cup, a year after only missing out on a run to the MLS Cup because of multiple players contracting COVID-19. It felt like the start of something special. But as we have learned from a few other Philly sports teams, things can fall apart quickly. Right now, things seem to be falling apart for the Union.
They have played 6 games so far in 2024. 2 regular season MLS games, and 4 Concacaf games. They won only 1 of them and tied 4 of them. but last night was a tipping point in terms of embarrassment.
In the second Concacaf game vs Liga MX’s Pachuca, they fell 6-0. Salomon Rondon scored a hat trick against them. They outshot the Union 20-5, and 13-3 in shots on goal. Andre Blake conceded 6 goals, with only 5 saves. No one on the Union seemed to have any interest in creating opportunities.
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The Philadelphia Union more or less ran back the same team as last year. The team that came up short in the playoffs, falling to FC Cincinnati in the 2nd round of the playoffs. They did well in holding onto a couple of guys like Kai Wagner who most people thought would leave this off-season. But they did nothing to help get the Union back on track. The same starters, with just a few pieces filled in at the edges of the roster. They ran back the same team we already saw wasn’t good enough.
Now this season is off to an inauspicious start as well. The Union’s whole thing has been building through their Academy. They have shunned bringing in star talent from overseas like many other MLS teams. For a while, that plan worked. But something needs to change. The team we have seen so far in 2024 is not the same caliber team that won our hearts back in 2021 and 2022.
Maybe it is time to open up the checkbook and recruit. Stop playing the soccer equivalent of Moneyball, and go out and recruit some talent. The fanbase has been as supportive as US Soccer fans can get. Subaru Park is rocking every night you host a game. Reward those fans, and field a more competitive team. What we are seeing isn’t good enough.
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9 Things You Should Know Before Going To A Philadelphia Union Game
How To Get to Subaru Park
If you are coming from Philadelphia, 95 South is going to be your best way to the park. Subaru Park 15 miles away from the Stadium Complex. You will be taking 95 South to exit 4. For New Jerseyans, you will want to come across the Commodore Barry Bridge. The Stadium is basically right under the bridge, so once you get across making your way down to the stadium should be easy. In both cases, getting into the stadium area and the parking lots can take a while. So give yourself extra time. The Union provided more specific directions here.
If you prefer Public Transportation, regional rail is an option. From 30th St station, you can catch the Wilmington/Newark line to Chester station. There will be a free shuttle from there to Subaru Park. Those shuttles start running 4 hours before the game. Keep in mind though that for late games, the last train may stop running before the final whistle, so you may need to find another option to get back to Philly. Like most places, they also have designated drop-off spots for Rise Sharing Apps.
What Should You Wear?
If you are new to the Union, you may not yet have Union gear to wear. That is fine. Just double-check who the opponent is that day to make sure you aren’t wearing their colors, and avoid the color red in general. And at least for the February, March, and April games, make sure to dress warm. The Stadium is on the water, and it can get fairly chilly at times early in the season.
If you do want to pick up Union gear, their Team Shop opens Up 2 Hours before the game begins.
What Time Can You Get In?
Gates open 90 minutes before the game. Which will give you plenty of time to get through the line and security. And then you will also be able to get some food, something to drink, and find your seats before kickoff. The same way the Sixers have a bell ringer, and the Phillies have someone throwing the first pitch, the Union will have a guest bang the drum. If seeing that is something that interests you, it is worth getting there ahead of time.
What Food And Drink Options Are There?
Like with every Philly stadium, you will be able to get Chickie’s and Pete’s Crab Fries. They are located in sections 108, 117, and 129. If you want a Cheesesetak, Phillip’s Steaks are in section 107. There is a PJ Whelihan’s at sections 122 and 101. And if you want something sweet, you can get ice cream at Scoops’N’Smiles in sections 109, 120, and 127. There are alcohol vendors throughout the stadium. But if you want something specific, there is a Heineken Bar in section 127.Â
The Fan Screening Process
According to the Union’s entry policy, all bags must be clear, and no larger than 14â x 14â x 6â. They will also be subject to search before you can enter Subaru Park. And as with any stadium, there is no outside food or drink permitted. You can see a dull list of prohibited items here.Â
Do They Have Any Theme Nights
Before picking what game you go to, it is worth taking a look at their promotional calendar. They have special theme nights coming up. Kids Night on March 25th. Pride Night on June 3rd. Military Appreciation Night on July 15th. Retro night on August 20th. And more. See a full list of Theme Nights here.
