Player rating results: Union find redemption in strong overall performance

While the game in Toronto was another opportunity lost, the Union put together a strong performance and earned a key road point. The first half was one of their best halves of the season as the Union controlled the game with and without the ball and outshot Toronto 6-0. The second half was another example where an opponent's tactical change redirected the flow of the game and the inflexible Union did not effectively respond.

Among the positives were two strong performances by Alejandro Bedoya in his debut in the #10 role and Ken Tribbett who redeemed his earlier performance against Toronto. The lone Union goal was a beautiful chip by Bedoya who showed his skill is worth the Union's biggest ever contract. Bedoya's deeper role as the Vincent Nogueira replacement has required him to subdue his offensive game but he showed why a more advanced role could also be an option.

Ken Tribbett had a difficult half against Toronto FC when they visited Talen Energy Stadium in August. Tribbett was removed at the half after playing a part in all of the three Toronto goals. But Tribbett was focused in his return to the starting lineup and redeemed his performance. He made three tackles, four clearances, five interceptions and was fourth on the team with touches as he and Rosenberry were a busy pair.

The fans were not impressed by Tribbett, ranking him 9th on the team among starters, but Adam Cann at PSP and the Whoscored bot made him the 5th best overall player. Alejandro Bedoya earned top honors for his goal and what was his most active performance as a member of the Union.

CJ Sapong missed both his shot attempts and the fans continue to be on his case as he was voted last for the fourth time in six games. CJ continues to do everything you could ask of a striker but score goals, admittedly a big issue. The question remains how long will Curtin live with the lack of production from his lone striker. The improved play of Fabian Herbers and the presence of veteran Charlie Davies provide two options worth exploring. Expect Jim Curtin to ride his first choice through to the playoffs but it's fair to second guess at this point.

The game in Toronto was a confidence builder for the Union as they can build off their strong first half and a defense that held their shape better than they have in quite a while. While fans are anxious for the Union to clinch their first playoff game in half a decade, and this game didn't move them much closer, there are alot of positives to take away from the performance.