By Matt Leon

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) – It has been a rebirth for the Philadelphia Union since John Hackworth took over the reigns on an interim basis from Peter Nowak.

Philadelphia has played inspired soccer on his watch as team manager, they are 3-2 in MLS action under Hackworth and they also beat Harrisburg to advance to tonight’s U.S. Open Cup semifinal against Sporting KC.  Under Nowak they were just 2-7-2, although their first two wins in Open Cup play came on his watch.

Philadelphia had been winless in U.S. Open play until this run year.  With a win tonight, they would advance to the finals where they would play the Seattle/Chivas USA winner.

KYW’s Matt Leon spoke with Kerith Gabriel, Union beat writer for the Philadelphia Daily News, about tonight’s match-up and what has triggered the improved Philadelphia play as of late.

You can follow Matt on Twitter @mattleonkyw.