Goalkeeper Thorne Holder has returned to the Philadelphia Union after spending almost four weeks away from the team.
The Union originally signed Holder after trialing with the team for a month, heading around the country with Philadelphia during the 2011 MLS preseason.
Holder began the season as the back up to starting goalkeeper Faryd Mondragon, but a concussion and other injury problems demoted him to third string.
Fifth overall SuperDraft selection Zac MacMath stepped into the back up role amiably, staying on the bench during league games and playing in the Union's reserve matches, along with both of their international friendlies (Everton and Real Madrid).
Holder did make one appearance for the Union, playing against Everton and helping keep the team's clean sheet in tack. Shortly thereafter Holder was released, but was quickly picked up by FC New York, a USL side. In five games with FC New York, Holder was 2-2-1 and had two shutouts.
Union bring back Holder to boost goalie depth: A fan’s reaction.
By Mark Paul (sports.yahoo.com).
The Philadelphia Union made a roster move that might surprise some fans. The team regained the rights to Thorne Holder, the goalie that was released not long ago. Holder was playing with a club in New York during the time since the Union first cut him. He posted a 2-2-1 record there.
As a Union fan, I understand that the team needed to secure depth at goaltender. Holder is a suitable option as the third goalie. The only question I have involves why the team let him go to begin with.
Holder hasn't seen MLS action with the Union but has played with the Reserve League team in several matches. He has actually been pretty solid and brings a lot of potential.
He also played a half in the friendly match against Everton. The Union won the game 1-0, and Holder was able to showcase some of his talent in front of the fans at PPL Park.
Holder is a change of pace from Faryd Mondragon and Zac MacMath, the two goalies above him on the depth chart. If he capitalizes on his potential, he could have a nice future with the team.
The Union made this move because they need to carry a third goalie. Even though the third goalie might not see much action, their presence provides protection should there be an injury to one of the top goalies. In that way, the roster move was pretty smart. The Union know what they have in Holder and like him enough to let him grow.
Holder should benefit from playing in the Reserve League. We know Mondragon won't be with this team forever. That means the future goalie will be either MacMath or Holder barring a big signing down the road. As Holder gets more experience, he will increase his chance of challenging MacMath for the position. Healthy competition should be good for both players.
For now, Holder should be happy he is back with the team. Hopefully, his second time with the Union will yield some great results.