Late Griffin Goal Lifts Philadelphia Union II Past Columbus Crew

Story and Photos by Shawn Payne

Match Date: September 4, 2026 | Kinetic Field, Chester, PA | MLS Next Pro

Philadelphia Union II entered Friday night with something to answer for.

The last time Union II faced Columbus Crew 2, Philadelphia left Historic Crew Stadium with a 2–0 loss despite generating 17 shots and spending long stretches of the match on the front foot. This meeting came at a more important stage of the season, with Philadelphia pushing for position in the MLS NEXT Pro playoff race and every remaining point carrying added weight.

Phila Union 2 on the attack against Columbus Crew 2 at Subaru Park

That made Friday’s rematch at Kinetic Field about more than simply getting another result at home. It was an opportunity for Union II to reverse the outcome from July and strengthen its position as the regular season moved toward its closing stretch.

For most of the night, however, the match looked like it might end without either side finding a breakthrough.

Philadelphia and Columbus played through a scoreless opening half, with both teams creating moments but neither able to produce the final ball or finish needed to separate themselves.

Union II continued to press after halftime, while Columbus stayed organized defensively and kept the match level deep into the second half.

The breakthrough finally arrived in the 83rd minute.

Kellan LeBlanc created the decisive chance and found Jordan Griffin, who finished to put Philadelphia in front, 1–0.

Phila Union 2 striker #68 Jordan Griffin with the scoring shot against Columbus Crew 2 at Subaru Park

After spending much of the night searching for one clean opportunity, Union II had finally found it.

Columbus pushed for an equalizer in the closing minutes, but Philadelphia protected the advantage and closed out the match to secure all three points.