Philadelphia Union: Viewing parties, open tryout

The Philadelphia Union travels to Houston Thursday night (8:30 p.m., ESPN2) for the second leg of the Eastern Conference semifinals. After losing to the Dynamo 2-1 last weekend, they need to win by two goals outright or win by one goal to force two 15-minute overtime periods, followed by penalty kicks if the aggregate score is still tied. A Union loss or draw ends their season.

So, you’re saying there’s a chance? Indeed.

And several local drinking holes are hosting viewing parties for city hooligans. Center City venues include: Fado Irish Pub, Tir Na Nog and Brauhaus Schmitz. For a complete listing, click here.

In other Union-related news … the club will be hosting an open tryout Dec. 19-20.

The Union, along with the Harrisburg City Islanders (USL Pro, the second-highest level of pro soccer in the U.S. ) are inviting future soccer stars out to test their skills in front of Union coach John Hackworth and Islanders coach Bill Becher at the Net Sports Complex in Palmyra, Pa.

“Our relationship with Harrisburg continues to pay dividends with the addition of three of their players to our roster,” said Hackworth. “Morgan Langley is a key example of how these tryouts are a terrific opportunity for us to find players who can compete within our player development structure, and ultimately with the Union first team. We look forward to seeing who turns out for this exciting two day event.”