The playoffs always bring an extra level of intensity, and this year was no different as both teams aimed to advance to the Eastern Conference Final. Tackling was fierce all over the field, and in the 25th minute, Uhre received the sole yellow card of the half for a tackle from Cincinnati's Nick Hagglund.

In the 20th minute, Blake faced another challenge from Ohio's Brandon Vazquez. Then, Obinna Nwobodo sent Wagner flying with a slide tackle near the sideline as halftime approached, prompting the whistle to blow and rousing the Union supporters in the stands. When Cincinnati's Matt Miazga was given a yellow card, the intensity from the first half came back, and the crowd at Subaru Park went wild. The Union rode that wave of enthusiasm to score the game's only goal. Gazdag was dragged off the ball after he picked up the ball inside the penalty area after another swift assault. Leon Flash received Uhre's volleyed pass and blasted it home with his left foot.

When the Union were leading by a single goal at Subaru Park, the visitors knew they had to throw all they had at the home team. The Union's stout defense held firm, just as it had during the regular season when they posted the top mark in the league against the goal-against average over the course of 34 games. With time running out, Subaru Park erupted in cheers for the team's collective defensive effort as fans waved rally towels frantically. As the MLS Eastern Conference Final approaches, Philadelphia will be looking for payback against the visiting New York City FC side.

[Photogrtaphy by ICONIC photographer Trey Madara]