Takeaway Talk: Excitement grows after NYCFC win

The Philadelphia Union continued their strong run of form, passing another crucial test against another Eastern Conference rival with a 2-0 win over New York City FC on Saturday. Here are some takeaways from the match:

Bořek Dočkal continues to show his worth
Not much was known about the midfielder before he arrived on loan earlier this year in Philadelphia. And a few games into the season, many fans thought we were seeing a wasted roster spot. But as the season has continued on, Dočkal has found his footing in MLS. Two assists and a stellar shift in the midfield helped guide the Union to a 2-0 win at home against NYCFC. This in my opinion was his best game in the blue and gold. The Union will need him to step up as the playoff race heats up in the Eastern Conference.

Cory Burke does it again and again
Mama, there goes that man! Cory Burke made it 6 goals in 6 MLS starts with his goal on Saturday. After a stellar run by Dočkal (see above) Burke slotted his finish calmly past City keeper Sean Johnson. But yet again Burke used his strength and speed to trouble the City defenders. His off-the-ball movement was incredible. Like I’ve said before, when he starts he scores. With the struggles of C.J. Sapong, it’s hard to not have Burke on the team sheet every week from here on out.

Union in the playoff hunt
Saturday’s win was a win for the ages. The Union thoroughly handled NYCFC at home. City is a playoff team, sitting third in the east at the time of writing. The way that the Union showed composure in such a big game should have Union fans excited as we near September with 10 regular season games remaining and an Open Cup final in Houston. These are the games you need to win. And not only was it a win, it was a stellar showing from all 11 men on the pitch.

What are your takeaways from Saturday’s win? Share in the comments.