Union Top Sporting, Move Back into Playoff Picture

The Union visited Sporting Kansas City, second in the Eastern Conference, as they attempted to halt their recent skid and move back into the playoff picture. Behind a solid defensive effort, the Union did just that, as they won by a score of 1 to 0 to pick up three points and move into the fifth and final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference for now.

The Union had struggled as of late, failing to win a game since August 10 against D.C. United. While the squad did pick up two points since then courtesy of ties against New York and Montreal, they quickly saw themselves fall from a high seed in the playoff race to fighting for a spot.

Conor Casey buried a close-range shot on a rebound off the keeper in the 36th minute to give the Union the 1 to 0 lead. It was Casey's 10th goal of the season, tying him for the team lead with Jack McInerney.

The Union defense held strong, turning away numerous opportunities by Sporting, as Zac MacMath recorded five saves on his way to his 11th shutout of the season, good for the league lead.

The win puts the Union at 11-10-9 on the season with 42 points. As of now they sit in the fifth and final Eastern Conference playoff spot, two points ahead of New England.

The Union will return to action next week as they welcome Toronto FC to PPL Park.

By: Kyle Babcock
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