Jack Elliott’s opening goal was a punch in the gut for New England Revolution. But for Philadelphia Union and head coach Jim Curtin, it was a particularly nice goal to get because it flowed from so many of the club’s guiding principles.
To understand, we need to go back to how the corner kick was earned. CJ Sapong, playing on the right wing, took on his man in order to create space to loft a cross in to Cory Burke, who had a free header on goal. The Union want their wingers to aggressively attack men on the dribble, and if they lose the ball the counterpress should make it difficult for the other team to get out in transition.