This match will probably not go in the Mark Geiger’s refereeing highlight package, but the Philadelphia Union made the most of it and came away with yet another 1-0 victory on Saturday. Geiger was at the middle of two huge calls, both largely questionable decisions. The Union were forced to play about 50 minutes with 10 men, but also were the beneficiary of a penalty call that resulted in the game’s only goal.
Philadelphia Union Vs. San Jose Earthquakes: 10-Man Union Hold On For Victory
The Union were both the victims and the beneficiaries of Geiger's questionable decision-making. In the 41st minute, Geiger showed a red card to Jordan Harvey for allegedly stomping on Earthquakes defender Chris Leitch. Replays were inconclusive, but showed no proof of Harvey doing anything that looked remotely red-card worthy.
Perhaps wanting to make up for that call, Geiger awarded a penalty to the Union in the 76th minute. The penalty will likely go down as one of the worst calls of the season, as the call appeared to be a handball, but replays were inconclusive as to whether the ball ever hit Daniel Hernandez's hand. In any case, his arms were held tight to his body.
Sebastien Le Toux calmly converted the penalty, which in its own way seemed to allow a fitting result. Despite being a man up for the majority of the match, the Earthquakes create precious few opportunities. They managed just four shots and did not force Union goalkeeper Faryd Mondragon into a single save.
The victory is the fourth 1-0 victory of the season for the Union, who have yet to score more than one goal in any of their six matches.
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