Philadelphia Union have found quite the duo on the backline to start the 2018 season. The youthful center back pairing of Jack Elliott and Auston Trusty has proved to be a healthy combination early in the season. It was a combination that was strong in preseason and has translated from Clearwater to Chester. In two matches so far, the Union as a team has yet to surrender a goal.
For Elliott, the consistency early in the season is a pattern that was shown in his rookie year. The 22-year-old has now started in 31 consecutive MLS regular season matches, while last year he started every match at center back that set a club record for consecutive matches without giving up a goal — helped his case as he finished the season as a Rookie of the Year finalist.