Ray Gaddis named to Sports Illustrated Best XI

After shutting down the Colorado Rapids this past weekend, Philadelphia Union defender Raymon Gaddis was named to Sports Illustrated's Best XI for Week 1.

Gaddis was part of a Union defense that allowed just two shots in total, neither of which were on target. While this may have been due in part to some interesting tactics implemented by Colorado, he still held his own on the left side of the pitch, squandering any chances the Rapids may have had. Gaddis also appeared to be extremely effective on the offensive side of the ball, helping generate the attack more than usual.

Also making it to the top XI on defense were Chad Marshall from Seattle, Zach Loyd of FC Dallas and Alvas Powell from Portland. Ex-Union and current Orlando City SC central defensive midfielder Amobi Okugo also made the list.

With a game upcoming this weekend in Utah against Real Salt Lake, Gaddis will continue to play a vital role in the Union back line to limit the chances of the opposition and make some kind of impact on the attack. Here's to hoping more Union defenders receive this achievement.