Game 17 - DC United 1:0 FC Dallas

Grades:

Forwards (Moreno, Adu) A-

Not very dangerous for most of the game, but able to finish the one that counted. Great cutback by Adu to set up Gomez. Excellent awareness by Moreno to let Gomez take the shot.

Midfielders (Gros, McTavish, Simms, Carroll the Elder, Gomez) B+

Unable to keep possession for long stretches, but very capable of short circuiting FC Dallas' ability to generate a consistent attack. Gomez buries the best chance of the night from about 20 yards away.

Defense (Erpen, Boswell, Namoff, Perkins) A-

Another shutout for Perkins and the fullbacks. Other than a few bobbles, Perkins was very solid. Facundo was overly aggressive, but Boswell had his back.

Subs (Wilson, Eskandarian, Olsen) B

Eskandarian should have done better on that breakaway. Nice to see Olsen back in the Black and Red. Wilson made some very aggressive runs and looked good doing so. Having him on the field really gives DC United some options with positioning. He can play on the left wing or he can play left back.

Overheard in my basement:

Scribbling on a pad of paper trying to figure out the depth chart. More on that tomorrow.