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Union still in playoff hunt

Despite a 5-10-4 record, the Union appear to be headed in a positive direction. But a poor start and several injuries early in the season have left them behind in the playoff chase.

Despite a 5-10-4 record, the Union appear to be headed in a positive direction.

But a poor start and several injuries early in the season have left them behind in the playoff chase.

Although the Union are just two points out of the sixth and final playoff spot in the East (six teams make it in each conference), the four teams immediately ahead of them have at least two games in hand.

"I think overall we are not happy with how the season has gone, but if you look at the last 10 we are 6-3-1 [4-3-1 in MLS games] and quietly and slowly have turned things around," coach Jim Curtin said.

Here is a look at some of the positives and negatives from the first part of the season.

Worst of the worst

Signing goalkeeper Rais Mbolhi last year at this time has turned into the worst decision in franchise history. He is not playing with the team as they openly are trying to peddle him during the transfer window, and he has an approximate $500,000 salary that is draining on the cap.

Mbolhi played in the Union's first five games and looked nothing like the keeper who was so strong for Algeria in last year's World Cup.

John McCarthy came in, started five games and proved to be adequate. Brian Sylvestre, whom the Union have on loan from the NASL's Carolina RailHawks, has started the last nine MLS games. He has been solid and the best solution at this point.

The Union have allowed the most goals (32), and it hasn't been all the fault of the keepers. Maurice Edu was moved from midfield to center back, and his play has been all-star caliber. But there are still too many times the defenders have been caught out of position.

Positive developments

C.J. Sapong, who was acquired from Sporting Kansas City, has saved the offense. In the opening match, he suffered a concussion and facial fracture that forced him to miss three games. On May 1, he was charged with reckless driving and driving under the influence and then missed the next three games. Since his return, Sapong has five goals and one assist over the last seven games.

In addition, midfielders Vincent Nogueira and Cristian Maidana have been a terrific tandem. Both have the ability to break down defenders. Maidana is tied for fourth in MLS with six assists. Nogueira has three goals and no assists, but he often starts the attack.

"It's great playing with Chaco," Nogueira said, referring to Maidana's nickname. "But a key has also been the play of Brian Carroll, who has been great defensively in the midfield."

Since Carroll was made a starter on May 17, the Union are 4-3-1 in MLS play.

Injuries

When the Union return to action July 11 against visiting Portland, forward Fernando Aristeguieta, midfielder Sebastien Le Toux, forward Conor Casey, midfielder Michael Lahoud and defender Steven Vitoria could be available.