Wet weather in June and a financial squeeze in the nation's credit markets severely impacted the already-tight construction schedule of the new Philadelphia Union MLS stadium.

That's the explanation given by the Union front office to explain why the team will begin next season on April 10 at Lincoln Financial Field, the home of the Philadelphia Eagles (NFL), instead of the new Chester, N.J. stadium. It's not the ideal situation for the Union to begin history, but given the alternatives -- like Franklin Field or a college facility -- the Linc is a pretty good option.

And it's an option that may end up sticking for longer than an initial game. Truth is, the Union isn't quite sure when the stadium will be ready for occupancy, as construction schedules are now so off it really depends on what is still a tight schedule.