CHESTER, Pa. (KYW Newsradio) — An exciting back-and-forth affair kicked off the Philadelphia Union’s MLS season at Subaru Park as they played out a 2-2 draw with the visiting Chicago Fire. It took a stoppage time goal to keep the Union from dropping their first game.
Subaru Park let out a collective sigh as a Union player put it in off the post in the game’s final minutes. The goal would have won the game for the Union, who tied it up in the 93rd minute of stoppage time with a Daniel Gazdag header. Their first goal came in the 55th minute through striker Mikael Uhre, who got on the end of a cross into the box.
The two Fire goals came in the 39th and 82nd minutes.
Optimism was high for the team heading into the game, especially from Sons of Ben leader Adam Booth.
“I think we stack up against anyone in this league, and I’m happy to see what the product’s gonna be.”
For Booth, it was great to be back at Subaru Park.
“It’s one of the best times of year,” Booth said. “It’s always kind of a little cold out here, but just the excitement kind of keeps you warm. Every single time it rolls around, you just get more and more excited and the optimism is at an all-time high here.”
Stephen, who was at the team’s playoff game at Subaru Park last year, said he wants more from the team this year.
“The end goal for every team is the MLS Cup. I would love to see that happen.”
Despite the cold, fans almost filled Subaru Park and were out in droves at the opening tailgate. Alexis has big dreams for the team’s season.
“We’ll make it back to the playoffs no question. I think we’ll be there,” she said. “I’m hoping. The road’s long so we’ll see, but I’m hoping for the cup.”