The last few years, the MLS have expanded the amount of teams in the league which includes the Philadelphia Union, Toronto FC, Vancouver Whitecaps, Portland Timbers, and the Seattle Sounders. We also can't forget that the San Jose Earthquakes have re-entered the league this year ever since their departure to move and become the Houston Dynamo in 2005. But, what I really would like to talk about is the Philadelphia Union. Philadelphia has been waiting for an MLS team to be created ever since the MLS became a league back in 1996. The Philadelphia area is a very strong place for the sport of soccer and the people of Philly love the excitement of game. Before the Union even had a full roster, they already had a massive fan section called “The Son’s of Ben” who has their own section reserved for them behind the goal along the riverside. The Philadelphia fans are one of the biggest supporters in the MLS after only being in the league for 1 year. The Philadelphia fans are fighting with the Seattle Sounders fans for having the best fans in the league. Now, that the Philadelphia Union are one year deep with their inaugural season put away, they are now extremely excited to start there 2011 season. The Union started off their 2011 campaign on February 19thvs. Houston Dynamo, which they won 1-0. Ever since that game they have put up the record of 4-2-2 and sitting at 2ndplace in the Eastern Conference. About this time last year they had the record of 1-6-1 and sitting at the bottom of the Eastern Conference. The Union has picked up their all around game and are now looking to make their first ever playoff appearance this season with the help of Sebastien Le Toux, Danny Mwanga, Danny Califf, and Carlos Ruiz. The biggest move that Philadelphia made during the off-season was acquiring Faryd Mondragon from FC Cologne of the German Bundesliga to be their new starting goalkeeper. The experienced Colombian international has spent time in some of the most recognizable leagues in the world.At the moment, Mondragon has posted 4 shut-outs and allowing only 4 goals in 8 games played. Team Manger, Peter Nowak has a strong starting line-up, especially at their offensive third. This is a very young team, having 12 of their players ranging from the age of 16-24 years of age. With their young talent, the Union is expected to make some noise this year and in the future. The Philadelphia Union’s next game will take place at Pizza Hut Park vs. FC Dallas at 8:30pm. This game will be aired on the Comcast Network.
This is the logo for "The Sons of Ben" The Philadelphia Union's Fan Group.
