Simpson helps keep Union hot with win over Sporting KC

CHESTER » There were plenty of times during the 2018 season when Jay Simpson could’ve pocketed his paycheck (a princely one by MLS standards) and gone through the motions. There were times when he could’ve pointed out that the two strikers ahead of him were guaranteed less money combined this year than he would earn, and thus he deserved a chance to work for it.

By the admissions of teammates and coaches, however, the Englishman didn’t elect that path. Even as minutes failed to materialize over the weeks and months, Simpson was ever a diligent training participant, trying to help his teammates improve on the practice field while waiting for an opening. Sunday, in very British weather in Chester, that chance arrived. And Simpson grasped it with both hands.

The beleaguered striker, making his first start in more than 14 months, scored two goals to lead a team of mostly Union reserves to a 2-0 win over Sporting Kansas City.

“Delighted to get the goals,” Simpson said. “I think it was good movement from Ale (Bedoya) to pick me out, especially for the second goal. Just happy I was able to be in the right place at the right time.”

Simpson scored in the 71st and 89th minutes, sealing a day that was productive on two fronts for the Union (1412-4, 46 points). Curtin rested the bulk of his starters for Wednesday’s U.S. Open Cup final in Houston, challenging a hungry and refreshed B team to chase a result. They did just that, outplaying Western Conference-leading SKC (15-8-6, 51 points).

With the result, the Union head into the OC final confident, with six wins in the last eight games.