Revolution vs. Union: New England hunts for first ever win against Philadelphia

The New England Revolution are set to close out their season series with the Philadelphia Union on Saturday night in Chester, Pennsylvania. The Revs are coming off an ugly 2-0 loss to Houston in tough conditions last week, while Philadelphia just put up an impressive 3-1 result over Chicago. The Union, like the Revs, are out of playoff contention.

Philadelphia's defense hasn't been great this season, but it also hasn't been awful. In one less match, they've conceded six fewer goals (37) than New England (43). Carlos Valdes leads the line, and youngsters Sheanon Williams and Gabriel Farfan add skill and enthusiasm to the back four. Zac MacMath, however, has been inconsistent in goal. As a shot-stopper, he's been fine, but he's had difficulty with balls in the air, giving Jerry Bengtson a weakness to exploit.

Offensively, the Union lack a dedicated goalscorer for the Revs defense to key on. That helps the Revs defense in that they don't have to worry about one particularly dangerous player, but it also makes it difficult for the Revs' defenders to know exactly where to focus. With Stephen McCarthy also listed as out, the New England defense is going to be running out in a makeshift formation, likely causing difficulties in dealing with Philly's attack.

New England's injury report has grown since last weekend's match against Houston. Sainey Nyassi was added to the list at questionable with a concussion, while Clyde Simms is again doubtful due to his calf problem. Still out are Saer Sene, Florian Lechner, Lee Nguyen, Tyler Polak, and Chris Tierney. McCarthy joins them now with concussive-like symptoms.

The Revs' record against Philadelphia is abysmal. In fact, they've never beaten the Union, sporting an 0-3-3 mark since the Union entered the league in 2010. This season, the Revs are 0-1-1, so they have a chance to even the series out after 2-1 loss and a 0-0 draw in Chester and Foxboro, respectively.

The match will be broadcast live on CSN at 7 PM EST. 98.5 The Sports Hub will handle the radio call.

For more Revolution coverage, visit our team page and blog, The Bent Musket.