Match Preview: Harrisburg City Islanders vs. Philadelphia Union
August 26, 2014 - United Soccer League Championship (USL)
Penn FC News Release
HARRISBURG, PA- On Thursday, August 28th the Harrisburg City Islanders (9-9-7) will welcome their MLS affiliate Philadelphia Union (7-7-9) to Skyline Sports Complex. The friendly will be a rematch of the classic US Open Cup meeting earlier this season, where the Union upended the Islanders in overtime at PPL Park by a 3-1 line.
The Union do not return to MLS play until Wednesday, September 3rd, meaning fans can expect to see a near full strength Philadelphia team.
The City Islanders have found their stride in their recent six match stretch, posting a 4-1-1 record, including a win over USL PRO leaders and future MLS club Orlando City SC. The Isles' latest match resulted in a 2-2 draw against the Rochester Rhinos - a final Harrisburg was happy with after keeper Nick Noble was sent off with a red card just 33 minutes into the match.
The Philadelphia Union have also shown to be in good form of late, recording a 3-1-2 tally over their past six MLS regular season matches. Lancaster, PA product Andrew Wenger garnered Man of the Match honors for his two goal effort in a 4-2 Union victory over the San Jose Earthquakes at PPL Park on Saturday night. The triumph pushed Philadelphia to 30 points on the season, just one point shy of playoff position.
Mozambican forward Clesio Bauque matched Wenger's brace while leading the 10-men Harrisburg side to a satisfying result on the road. Yann Ekra made it an international affair as the Ivory Coast native facilitated the attack on both scores, earning two assists for his work. However, it was keeper David Flynn who stole the show while making spectacular saves to minimize the damage and only allow a single goal to secure a critical point on the road.
Former Islanders' star Sheanon Williams also played a major role in Philadelphia's victory this weekend, scoring a 72nd minute goal to break the 2-2 tie just two minutes after a San Jose equalizer. Williams spent the 2010 season with the Islanders, notching three goals in 19 matches en route to "Upper 90" City Islanders' Rookie of the Year honors. Williams would sign with the Union in August of the same year, just over four months after his Islanders debut.
Thursday's match will mark the seventh meeting between the clubs, including four friendlies and two US Open Cup showdowns. The Union have won both competitive matches by scores of 5-2 in 2012 and 3-1 earlier this season. The depleted Islanders' US Open Cup roster nearly completed the massive upset before an 89th minute equalizer from Maurice Edu would eventually elevate Philadelphia in a 3-1 overtime thriller.
Harrisburg will bring Philly flavor to the Island, where fans can enjoy Philadelphia inspired food and drinks, including Philly cheese steaks, pretzels and more! Fans who purchase tickets in advance can take advantage of an exclusive offer for discounted ticket prices ($15 adult, $10 children) and a complementary City Islanders scarf with every purchase! Socceritaville tickets will also be available, with prices ranging from $20 for deck access to $30 for a full VIP experience including complementary drinks. All offers expire Wednesday, August 27th at 5:00 PM.
General admission tickets will be sold at the gate for $20 for adults and $15 for children. Socceritaville tickets will also be available to purchase on match day. The match will kick off Thursday at 7:00 PM; gates will open at 5:30 PM.
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Get your tickets today by calling (717)441-4625 (GOAL).
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United Soccer League Championship Stories from August 26, 2014
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- LA Galaxy II Face Real Salt Lake Reserves Wednesday - LA Galaxy II
- Match Preview: Harrisburg City Islanders vs. Philadelphia Union - Penn FC
- Charlotte's Thompson Named Player of the Week - USL
- Seminole County and Orlando City Reach Agreement on New Soccer Training Center Partnership - Orlando City SC
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