Game 10 - DC United 3:1 Chicago Fire

DC took advantage of several gifts from the Fire this week. It's a simple statement, but it is a very accurate way to sum up game 10 on the schedule. And how many points are missed in the standings because a team is unable to take what is given to them? So, good show from United this week. Well done, Dyachenko and Emilio, for finishing the easy chances. Seven games since the last loss is a great accomplishment no matter how it happens.

The Good:

Erpen was very steady for the second week in a row. He may have been at fault for the goal, but there were three or four other players who could have cleared the ball before Erpen misplayed the situation.

• Emilio's two goals were exactly what United thought it was getting when they signed him. Someone who can make the hard stuff look easy and be a good target inside the 18 yard box.
• Both Gros and McTavish looked very good at the back and Gros and Namoff were moving well up into the attack on the wings.

The Bad:

• Perkins misplayed the shot which resulted in the goal. He claimed some sort of field irregularity contributed to the gaffe. If he says so...
• Fred looked very tired during the last 15 minutes. I was shocked he wasn't subbed out as he was clearly gassed. Not really a fitness issue, but more of a "he ran until he couldn't run no more" situation.

Grades:

Forwards (Dyachenko and Emilio) B+

Nice lob shot from Emilio and two fortunate bounces which were converted for three goals from the forwards.

Midfielders (Fred, Gomez, Carroll the Elder, and Olsen) A-

All the problems from the first three games are gone. No more ridiculous giveaways from Carroll, Gomez was involved in the attack and distributing well, and Fred and Olsen were pushing up the sidelines and testing the Fire's backline.

Defense (Erpen, Namoff, Gros, McTavish, and Perkins) A-

The one goal was not good, but they were dominating in the first half. The second half wasn't quite as good, but still an above average effort. Overall, their game should result in a win every week.

Subs (Adderly, Simms, and Moose) B

Another good week from Moose. Simms played fine, but Adderly looked a bit lost out there when it came to linking up passed and moving into open space.