Chicago Union Aim to Extend Momentum in Road Match Against Pittsburgh Thunderbirds

By Elise Gan

Photography by Noah Moell

CHICAGO — Fresh off securing their 100th win in franchise history, the Chicago Union will look to build on that milestone performance as they travel to Pennsylvania for a Sunday matchup against the Pittsburgh Thunderbirds.

Chicago enters the contest with renewed confidence after earning its first victory of the season last weekend, an 18–16 win over the Madison Radicals. The Union will try to carry that momentum into their first meeting of the year with Pittsburgh, who currently holds a 1–4 record and sits last in the Central Division.

While Chicago has spent the early portion of its schedule entrenched in divisional play, facing Minnesota, Indianapolis, and Madison, the Thunderbirds have navigated a more varied slate. Pittsburgh has taken losses to Montreal, New York, and Carolina, with its lone win coming against Philadelphia. The Thunderbirds’ only divisional game to date was a 21–17 defeat to Madison in mid‑May.

Chicago sees opportunity in both its own positive momentum and Pittsburgh’s recent form. The Union also benefit from the scheduling advantage of facing the Thunderbirds on the second leg of a back‑to‑back doubleheader for the Birds. Pittsburgh will travel to Toronto on Saturday to face the Rush before returning home for Sunday’s contest against Chicago.

Last season the Union swept the Thunderbirds en route to a perfect 12–0 regular‑season. With momentum on their side and a chance to climb the divisional standings, the Union are focused on bringing their A-game as they head into Sunday’s road contest.

First pull is set for 1:00 p.m. CST on Sunday, June 14. The game will stream live on WatchUFA.TV.