The Philadelphia Union haven’t won a game yet this season. Tonight may be their night against the Portland Timbers. It will be an extremely tough task but if they can get a few things right the Union stand a good chance to start a good run of form.

1 – The Union have been close this season. A close game against Vancouver, Toronto, and Orlando showed the toughness this team has. The potential is there for the players. The first thing to look for tonight is if Jim Curtin will change up his lineup at all. Jay Simpson has not gotten it done as of yet this season and CJ Sapong showed what he’s capable of with his goal as a substitute last game. Jim Curtin has also been a stalwart of the 4-2-3-1 but there has been speculation that the Union may come out in a different style tonight. Will he go with two strikers up top or have dedicated wingers in a 4-3-3?

2 – Will the Portland Timbers speed on the counter break the Union? The styles of play for each of these teams doesn’t seem to bode well for the Union. Jim Curtin has been adamant that they want to be the team that dictates the tempo and hold possession, especially at home. The Timbers have their own not so secret weapon for this: Fanendo Adi. Adi leads the league so far in solo goals and you just need to watch the last ten minutes of their game against Minnesota to know why. He is deadly when running at defenders.

3 – Will the Union finally get luck on their side? It was an incredibly tough loss away in Orlando and the Toronto game at home was equally as frustrating. If the formation is changed up and they can keep the counter attacks dormant, the Union just need one or two opportunities to take the lead and lock down the game. This team has national team veterans, up and coming youngsters, and a dedicated fan base. Tonight should be the night the ball starts to roll their way.

Tune in tonight to find out at 7PM in Chester, Pennsylvania.