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While they were unable to hold onto leads three different times, the Philadelphia Union matched LAFC Sunday night in a game that at times resembled a soccer version of H-O-R-S-E.
They left only with a point after a 3-3- draw but are full of confidence heading into the home opener against yet another Western Conference foe, San Jose Earthquakes, on Saturday,
Andre Blake made the MLS Team of the Week for his eight-save performance despite the three goals but finished second behind Brenden Aaronson in overall WhoScored.com ratings for the team. Aaronson, who had an 8.41 rating, opened his 2020 scoring account with the Union’s third of the night and made a key pass in the build-up to the first half opener from Sergio Santos. He was also really strong in his movement, pressure in defense and quick decision making.
Santos had himself a night with his goal and an assist to Aaronson but ended up being overshadowed by the 40-yard rocket from Jakob Glesnes that may have already won the Norwegian goal of the season. His performance after struggling against FC Dallas was a welcome sign for an offense that sputtered in Frisco but showed how dangerous it can be playing out of the high press.
Jose ‘El Brujo’ Martinez had a notable night in his MLS debut with three tackles, five interceptions and a blocked shot. He also took a cleat to the face and was visibly bleeding in what was an appropriate visual for the grit and fearlessness the team showed.
In addition to the goal, Glesnes had 12 clearances on the night and had the third highest pass accuracy on the team for the night at 82 percent. He also nearly connected with a second goal on a header that rattled the crossbar.
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