CHESTER, Pa. - The Philadelphia Union rode a first-half goal from Sebastien Le Toux and a shutout for backup goalkeepers Brad Knighton and Brian Perk on Wednesday to a 1-0 win over legendary Scottish side Celtic FC at PPL Park.
The international friendly was the first in a stretch that will include a tilt against Manchester United later this month for the Union, who got the game-winner from their French phenom in the 23rd minute.
Debutant Eduardo Coudet, who has been on trial with the club, took the ball at the top of the box and slid a masterful pass to Le Toux at the penalty spot. Onsides, Le Toux dribbled around Celtic goalkeeper and former MLS SuperDraft pick Dominic Cervi before placing the ball in the far corner.
The goal was a result of a strong opening for the Union, who nearly scored off the foot of rookie Danny Mwanga in the sixth minute, and threatened again when the 18 year-old hammered a half-volley into Cervi’s chest off a corner kick just a minute later.
Celtic responded after LeToux’s goal and controlled the match for the remainder of the half, but they mustered little after the break against the Union’s subs and were unable to put the ball past a very steady Perk.
Amobi Okugo and Toni Stahl got solid looks for the Union coaching staff, and Jack McInerney impressed with creativity off the bench and lifted a shot just over the crossbar in the second half.
The Union return to action on Saturday at home against Toronto FC.
