Union relaxed and focused

During their inaugural season, the Union picked up their first-ever road victory in Houston. Now, the Union can pick up their first victory of 2011 at the same venue.

The Union open their second campaign vs. the Dynamo. Since last season concluded, the Union have made numerous changes to their roster, shoring up virtually every area.

“We need to be relaxed, but focused,” Union manager Peter Nowak said. “I think deep inside we know what we are all about. Deep inside we know that we have a good, quality team. The rest will be putting that stuff on the field, executing the right way.”

Philadelphia finished its first MLS season with an 8-15-7 record. The club began the season with eight of its first 10 games on the road and ultimately was left out of the playoffs.

Don’t be surprised if the Union make a serious run for the expanded 10-team postseason. The club added key players in the offseason, such as forward Carlos Ruiz, goalkeeper Faryd Mondragon, defender Carlos Valdes and midfielder Brian Carroll.

“We would love to be in the playoffs. That has to be a goal,” said forward Sebastien Le Toux, who had 14 goals last season. “We have to win the first game and go from there one at a time.”