Preview of Game 16 - DC United vs Los Angeles Galaxy
DC United, 6-1-7 (W-D-L), welcome the LA Galaxy, to RFK for their one visit of the season. Along with the Galaxy come Landon Donovan and David Beckham. Should be a large crowd, maybe approaching 40,000. This game also matches up the two highest scoring offenses (DC 24, LA 31) and the two highest yielding defenses (DC 25, LA 24). Let the fireworks ensue. United are in the midst of a five game unbeaten streak (4-1-0) including their 3-1 win over San Jose last Saturday. DC are playing well at home with a 5-0-2 record and a +9 goal differential. United, 1.36 PPG, are currently tied for 4th in the Eastern Conference, eight points behind New England, 1.80 PPG, with a game in hand. United are also in a five way tie for 5th place in the Supporter's Shield race also led by New England.
Los Angeles, like DC United, are undefeated in June (2-1-0). Over all they are 6-3-4 and have been playing exciting soccer. Similar to recent years, the offense is successful and the defense is mediocre to awful. The poor defensive play can be attributed to salary cap decisions which have allocated large amounts to money to a few offensive players. This has left very little money with which to field a proficient unit along the back line. So they try to pummel you to death. Los Angeles have scored three or more goals six times in thirteen games. Surprisingly they have also been shutout three times. Los Angeles, 1.62 PPG, lead the Western Conference by two points over Real Salt Lake and Houston with two and one game in hands respectively. Los Angeles trails New England bby six points in the Supporter's Shield race.
United will be without Domenic Mediate (concussion), Ben Olsen (ankle) and Francis Doe (visa issues) this weekend. I expect the starting eleven to be Emilio, Moreno, Fred, Gallardo, Quaranta, Simms, Namoff, McTavish, Peralta, Martinez, and Wells. Burch, Dyachenko, Corderio, and Stratford might see time off the bench.
As has been mentioned here and on other blogs, Burch's lack of progress is more than a bit disappointing. Simply put, he has no right foot. It's not an Etcheverry situation where his left is so dominant he tries to use it at every opportunity. Burch simply refuses to use his right foot even when it seems like it is the only option. Awkward stabs at the ball which result in careless turnovers are no deterrent. I've never seen anything like it, and I can't understand how he could have progressed this far without a coach pulling him aside and telling him it is unacceptable. Could you imagine an NBA player never dribbling with his opposite hand? If it continues, I can't see him in the starting lineup at any position.
Prediction:
DC United 3:2 Los Angeles Galaxy
Friday, June 27, 2008
Monday, June 23, 2008
Game 15 - DC United 3:1 San Jose Earthquakes
Maybe there won't be a shutout this season. Is that such a bad thing? Personally, I'd rather win 3-1 than have a bunch of 0-0 ties. And a shutout doesn't mean that you have great defense. It can mean you play like a bunch of babies and put nine men behind the ball. Am I rationalizing? Maybe. But I do think the shutout statistic is vastly overrated. So, other than allowing a goal, what else happened?
The Good:
Forwards (Moreno and Emilio) B
Emilio was extremely active. He made nice runs and was dangerous in the box. San Jose needed to know where he was at all times. In addition to the very nice goal, he also hit the post off of a nice combination with Gallardo. Moreno was not bad, but he didn't seem to influence the game very much.
Midfielders (Gallardo, Fred, Simms, and Burch) C+
Simms' touch seemed to fail him most of the match. There were numerous passes which had the wrong weight and never made it to the intended recipient. He had an excellent strike which deflected into the net (he must have worked on those long shots over the winter) but he cancelled it out with his bad passing. Fred was occasionally brilliant, but often lousy. He was pulled early and deserved it. Burch has no right foot. San Jose realized this and made him use it. He couldn't and was completely inneffective. Gallardo was very influential. I watched him with binoculars for about ten minutes during the second half and this is clearly his team. He was directing players constantly shouting encouragement and criticism at what seemed to be appropriate times. He decided who took free kicks and corners and demanded the ball when he was open. His passes at times seem ambitious, but I think the team is beginning to understand how he sees the field and is starting to anticipate his passes and are starting to run on to them at the right time.
Defenders (Peralta, Gonzalez, Namoff, McTavish, and Wells) B+
If I was going order the players from one to ten on how likely they were to score a goal, it would have been as follows: Emilio, Moreno, Gallardo, Fred, Peralta, Burch, Simms, Namoff, McTavish, and Martinez. Numbers one, seven and ten scored. The Martinez goal was gorgeous and shocking. He has been spectacular the last two months. So far, he is the player of the year im my book. Wells keeps this group from an A. He was directly responsible for the goal, although none of it happens if Corderio doesn't get blown by on the sideline immediately preceding it. McTavish makes the spectacular save but doesn't make the simple passes. Peralta and Namoff were excellent in defense.
Substitutes (Corderio, Mediate, and Dyachenko) B-
I give partial blame on the goal to Corderio. I honestly didn't notice Mediate or Dyachenko much other than the red card which Mediate was part of.
Maybe there won't be a shutout this season. Is that such a bad thing? Personally, I'd rather win 3-1 than have a bunch of 0-0 ties. And a shutout doesn't mean that you have great defense. It can mean you play like a bunch of babies and put nine men behind the ball. Am I rationalizing? Maybe. But I do think the shutout statistic is vastly overrated. So, other than allowing a goal, what else happened?
The Good:
- Martinez and Namoff continue to make runs up field and look good doing it.
- Emilio's scoring streak reaches five games
- The back line was solid
- Distribution from defenders to midfield and midfield to forwards was poor for most of the night
- Fred, Burch, McTavish, Simms, and Moreno all have substandard games
- Wells was shaky yet again
Forwards (Moreno and Emilio) B
Emilio was extremely active. He made nice runs and was dangerous in the box. San Jose needed to know where he was at all times. In addition to the very nice goal, he also hit the post off of a nice combination with Gallardo. Moreno was not bad, but he didn't seem to influence the game very much.
Midfielders (Gallardo, Fred, Simms, and Burch) C+
Simms' touch seemed to fail him most of the match. There were numerous passes which had the wrong weight and never made it to the intended recipient. He had an excellent strike which deflected into the net (he must have worked on those long shots over the winter) but he cancelled it out with his bad passing. Fred was occasionally brilliant, but often lousy. He was pulled early and deserved it. Burch has no right foot. San Jose realized this and made him use it. He couldn't and was completely inneffective. Gallardo was very influential. I watched him with binoculars for about ten minutes during the second half and this is clearly his team. He was directing players constantly shouting encouragement and criticism at what seemed to be appropriate times. He decided who took free kicks and corners and demanded the ball when he was open. His passes at times seem ambitious, but I think the team is beginning to understand how he sees the field and is starting to anticipate his passes and are starting to run on to them at the right time.
Defenders (Peralta, Gonzalez, Namoff, McTavish, and Wells) B+
If I was going order the players from one to ten on how likely they were to score a goal, it would have been as follows: Emilio, Moreno, Gallardo, Fred, Peralta, Burch, Simms, Namoff, McTavish, and Martinez. Numbers one, seven and ten scored. The Martinez goal was gorgeous and shocking. He has been spectacular the last two months. So far, he is the player of the year im my book. Wells keeps this group from an A. He was directly responsible for the goal, although none of it happens if Corderio doesn't get blown by on the sideline immediately preceding it. McTavish makes the spectacular save but doesn't make the simple passes. Peralta and Namoff were excellent in defense.
Substitutes (Corderio, Mediate, and Dyachenko) B-
I give partial blame on the goal to Corderio. I honestly didn't notice Mediate or Dyachenko much other than the red card which Mediate was part of.
Friday, June 20, 2008
Preview of Game 15 - DC United vs San Jose Earthquakes
DC United, 5-1-7 (W-D-L), welcome expansion franchise San Jose to RFK stadium for the first of two meetings this season. United have rebounded nicely from a terrible start in which they only netted six points from the first nine games. Since then, United claimed ten of a possible twelve points. United have scored at least two goals in each of their last four games, including four last week against NYRB. DC are in the middle of a stretch of games where they play at home from June 14th thru August 10th, a total of nine games. United are 4-0-2 at home with a +7 GAA. United (1.23 PPG) are in 5th place in the Eastern Conference, eleven points behind New England (1.93 PPG) with a game in hand. DC are 9th in the Supporter's Shield race also led by New England.
San Jose Earthquakes are playing as you would expect an expansion team to play. They give up a lot of goals and don't score very many. Despite being shut out the last two games, San Jose have pulled four points out of their last three games going 1-1-1 including a 2-0 win at Columbus. San Jose are 2-1-4 on the road with a -4 goal differential. San Jose only average 0.67 goals per game on the road. San Jose (0.92 PPG) are in last place in the Western Conference, nine points behind Los Angeles (1.67 PPG). They are also last in the Supporter's Shield race, sixteen points behind New England.
If DC United are going to break through and get their first shut out, this is the game. San Jose are a fairly defenseless team. United need to attack from the start and keep the foot on the gas. With Gallardo and Namoff back from red card vacation but with Quaranta leaving for a yellow card vacation, I expect the starting eleven to be Emilio, Moreno, Gallardo, Simms, Fred, Burch, Namoff, McTavish, Peralta, Gonzalez, and Wells. Dyachenko, Kirk, and Stratford could see time as substitutes.
I'm one game late, but let's look at where United was after the second fifth of the season. United had thirteen points after twelve games for an average of 1.08 points per game. That is well off the pace of 1.83 necessary to contend for the Supporter's Shield. United will need to go 12-3-2 in the remaining seventeen games to hit the fifty-five point threshold. The margin for error is very slim. To make the playoffs, DC needs to get to around forty points. Eight wins in the final seventeen games would get them there.
Prediction:
DC United 3:0 San Jose Earthquakes
DC United, 5-1-7 (W-D-L), welcome expansion franchise San Jose to RFK stadium for the first of two meetings this season. United have rebounded nicely from a terrible start in which they only netted six points from the first nine games. Since then, United claimed ten of a possible twelve points. United have scored at least two goals in each of their last four games, including four last week against NYRB. DC are in the middle of a stretch of games where they play at home from June 14th thru August 10th, a total of nine games. United are 4-0-2 at home with a +7 GAA. United (1.23 PPG) are in 5th place in the Eastern Conference, eleven points behind New England (1.93 PPG) with a game in hand. DC are 9th in the Supporter's Shield race also led by New England.
San Jose Earthquakes are playing as you would expect an expansion team to play. They give up a lot of goals and don't score very many. Despite being shut out the last two games, San Jose have pulled four points out of their last three games going 1-1-1 including a 2-0 win at Columbus. San Jose are 2-1-4 on the road with a -4 goal differential. San Jose only average 0.67 goals per game on the road. San Jose (0.92 PPG) are in last place in the Western Conference, nine points behind Los Angeles (1.67 PPG). They are also last in the Supporter's Shield race, sixteen points behind New England.
If DC United are going to break through and get their first shut out, this is the game. San Jose are a fairly defenseless team. United need to attack from the start and keep the foot on the gas. With Gallardo and Namoff back from red card vacation but with Quaranta leaving for a yellow card vacation, I expect the starting eleven to be Emilio, Moreno, Gallardo, Simms, Fred, Burch, Namoff, McTavish, Peralta, Gonzalez, and Wells. Dyachenko, Kirk, and Stratford could see time as substitutes.
I'm one game late, but let's look at where United was after the second fifth of the season. United had thirteen points after twelve games for an average of 1.08 points per game. That is well off the pace of 1.83 necessary to contend for the Supporter's Shield. United will need to go 12-3-2 in the remaining seventeen games to hit the fifty-five point threshold. The margin for error is very slim. To make the playoffs, DC needs to get to around forty points. Eight wins in the final seventeen games would get them there.
Prediction:
DC United 3:0 San Jose Earthquakes
Thursday, June 05, 2008
Game 12 - DC United vs Houston Dynamo
Postponed due to lack of flood insurance
As I exited Lake RFK last night, I was left with a few impressions:
Postponed due to lack of flood insurance
As I exited Lake RFK last night, I was left with a few impressions:
- Since I no longer had my game ticket (who keeps a soccer ticket in case of a rain out?) how am I going to get into the game when it is rescheduled? Anyone know?
- This was a bad game to bring my 10 month old to
- Gallardo appears to be a mudder. He looked great
- Houston couldn't wait to leave the field when the referee suspended the game
- Loved the fact that you could see the outline of the old baseball diamond in the pattern of the puddles. Shows how well the drainage system works. And I guess there won't be a crown on the field at RFK anymore. Hopefully the new stadium comes soon. I think the game would have been playable longer and started again if the field had a crown.
Wednesday, June 04, 2008
Preview of Game 12 - DC United vs Houston Dynamo
DC United welcome the two time defending MLS Cup winners to Washington, DC. Currently (4 PM) it is raining pretty hard in DC so conditions could be sloppy at RFK. United are coming off of a 2-2 tie at New England which felt like a loss. However, the offensive production was a big step up. Emilio, Gallardo, Fred, Simms and Moreno all appeared to be on the same page in the first half and only several spectacular saves kept United from posting four or five goals. United are 3-0-2 (W-D-L) at home this season with a +4 goal differential. United, 3-1-7, is currently in last place in the Eastern Conference, trailing New England, 6-2-3, by ten points. New England also leads the Supporter's Shield race.
Houston Dynamo are back on track after a very slow start to the season and return to RFK Stadium where they clinched the MLS Cup last fall. Dynamo won three games in May with two ties and only one loss. Houston have not played well on the road with a 1-3-3 record and a -4 goal differential. Houston, 3-5-3, are tied second place in the Western Conference, one point behind Colorado who have a game in hand. Houston trails New England by six points in the Supporter's Shield race.
United remains relatively healthy after eleven league games and four tournament games. Olsen remains unavailable but every other player should be ready to go. I expect the starting eleven to be Emilio, Moreno, Fred, Gallardo, Simms, Quaranta, Namoff, Peralta, McTavish, Martinez, and Wells. Burch, Dyachenko, and maybe Stratford come off the bench.
Prediction:
DC United 1:0 Houston Dynamo
DC United welcome the two time defending MLS Cup winners to Washington, DC. Currently (4 PM) it is raining pretty hard in DC so conditions could be sloppy at RFK. United are coming off of a 2-2 tie at New England which felt like a loss. However, the offensive production was a big step up. Emilio, Gallardo, Fred, Simms and Moreno all appeared to be on the same page in the first half and only several spectacular saves kept United from posting four or five goals. United are 3-0-2 (W-D-L) at home this season with a +4 goal differential. United, 3-1-7, is currently in last place in the Eastern Conference, trailing New England, 6-2-3, by ten points. New England also leads the Supporter's Shield race.
Houston Dynamo are back on track after a very slow start to the season and return to RFK Stadium where they clinched the MLS Cup last fall. Dynamo won three games in May with two ties and only one loss. Houston have not played well on the road with a 1-3-3 record and a -4 goal differential. Houston, 3-5-3, are tied second place in the Western Conference, one point behind Colorado who have a game in hand. Houston trails New England by six points in the Supporter's Shield race.
United remains relatively healthy after eleven league games and four tournament games. Olsen remains unavailable but every other player should be ready to go. I expect the starting eleven to be Emilio, Moreno, Fred, Gallardo, Simms, Quaranta, Namoff, Peralta, McTavish, Martinez, and Wells. Burch, Dyachenko, and maybe Stratford come off the bench.
Prediction:
DC United 1:0 Houston Dynamo
Thursday, May 29, 2008
Preview of Game 11 - DC United at New England Revolution
DC United, 3-0-7 (W-D-L), travel north to Massachusetts to take on New England in a nationally televised match up on ESPN2. DC United are coming off of a desperately needed come from behind victory at home against Toronto FC. Emilio ended his seven game scoreless streak, Fred looked to be at full strength, and United scored on a set piece. All things that could lead to a change in fortunes. As always, time will tell. United have been horrendous on the road this season losing all five games and only scoring one goal while surrendering twelve. United are currently ten points behind Eastern Conference leading Chicago, Columbus, and New England. Those three also lead the Supporter's Shield race.
New England, (6-1-3), have been on a three game winning streak allowing only a single goal while scoring five. New England is a respectable 2-0-2 at home with a +1 goal differential. New England are tied for the lead in the Eastern Conference and the Supporter's Shield race with Chicago and Columbus.
Now is the time to show how far they have come. The comeback victory will not mean much if they get shutout on the road. Last place teams don't need road victories, playoff teams do. I expect the starting eleven to be Emilio, Moreno, Fred, Gallardo, Quaranta, Simms, Namoff, McTavish, Peralta, Martinez, and Wells. Niell was left off of the senior roster again and looks like he will be released before the July 1 roster date. Everyone on the roster on July 1 has their contracts guaranteed for the season.
Prediction:
DC United 2:2 New England Revolution
DC United, 3-0-7 (W-D-L), travel north to Massachusetts to take on New England in a nationally televised match up on ESPN2. DC United are coming off of a desperately needed come from behind victory at home against Toronto FC. Emilio ended his seven game scoreless streak, Fred looked to be at full strength, and United scored on a set piece. All things that could lead to a change in fortunes. As always, time will tell. United have been horrendous on the road this season losing all five games and only scoring one goal while surrendering twelve. United are currently ten points behind Eastern Conference leading Chicago, Columbus, and New England. Those three also lead the Supporter's Shield race.
New England, (6-1-3), have been on a three game winning streak allowing only a single goal while scoring five. New England is a respectable 2-0-2 at home with a +1 goal differential. New England are tied for the lead in the Eastern Conference and the Supporter's Shield race with Chicago and Columbus.
Now is the time to show how far they have come. The comeback victory will not mean much if they get shutout on the road. Last place teams don't need road victories, playoff teams do. I expect the starting eleven to be Emilio, Moreno, Fred, Gallardo, Quaranta, Simms, Namoff, McTavish, Peralta, Martinez, and Wells. Niell was left off of the senior roster again and looks like he will be released before the July 1 roster date. Everyone on the roster on July 1 has their contracts guaranteed for the season.
Prediction:
DC United 2:2 New England Revolution
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Game 10 - DC United 3:2 Toronto FC
Apologies for the lack of posts during the last two weeks. Personal travel and a wedding anniversary combined in a way which prevented me from watching any of the games live or on same-day-tape. Once I was able to watch them several days later, the posts I would have written seemed dated since there was a game either that night of the next day.
So where is DC United? One third of the way through the season and United is sitting on nine points. They are way off pace for making the playoffs and seem to be out of both the Supporter's Shield race and the Easter Conference title. The offense is playing below expectations, not generating the chances which were anticipated. The defense is actually playing better than last year. The keeper has been a bit spotty, but the number of goals allowed is exactly the same as it was last season through ten games. The fact that there hasn't been a shutout skews the numbers a bit. So what is the biggest difference between this year and last? The inability to earn a tie on the road. If United was standing on a 3-3-4 (W-D-L) record, there would be no panic, and large amounts of optimism. However, the three extra losses make for a depressed locker room. The most recent game is cause for hope, but the needed breakthrough on the road better come soon.
Apologies for the lack of posts during the last two weeks. Personal travel and a wedding anniversary combined in a way which prevented me from watching any of the games live or on same-day-tape. Once I was able to watch them several days later, the posts I would have written seemed dated since there was a game either that night of the next day.
So where is DC United? One third of the way through the season and United is sitting on nine points. They are way off pace for making the playoffs and seem to be out of both the Supporter's Shield race and the Easter Conference title. The offense is playing below expectations, not generating the chances which were anticipated. The defense is actually playing better than last year. The keeper has been a bit spotty, but the number of goals allowed is exactly the same as it was last season through ten games. The fact that there hasn't been a shutout skews the numbers a bit. So what is the biggest difference between this year and last? The inability to earn a tie on the road. If United was standing on a 3-3-4 (W-D-L) record, there would be no panic, and large amounts of optimism. However, the three extra losses make for a depressed locker room. The most recent game is cause for hope, but the needed breakthrough on the road better come soon.
Friday, May 09, 2008
Game 7 - DC United 0:2 Chicago Fire
I am now worried about making the playoffs. My worries can by put into to two main categories.
Personnel:
It look like the bench is no stronger this season than it has been in the past few years. With Gallardo and Fred out, the midfield was severely out classed by the Chicago Fire. Dyachenko is not creative enough and is prone to brain cramps where he holds the ball too long and gets it taken away from him. Burch, once again, proved he isn't a midfielder. In fact the whole DC United offense last night seemed to consist of passing the ball around in the midfield until someone kicked it directly to a Fire defender. Directly to them. And I have a question. If one of your forwards is the size of a small point guard and the man marking him is the size of a power forward, does it make sense to continuously play the ball in eight feet off the ground? Niell is pint sized, Dyachenko. Stop sending head balls to him.
Tactics:
Game after game, United seems unable to push forward with numbers. The slow build allows the opposition to father forces behind the ball and mount a defense which requires tremendous ball skills to penetrate. DC United lacks the requisite ball skills to do this, so what happens is any pass which isn't played into space or to Moreno is fumbled and turned over. Seven games, same results. When United scores it is in long ball passes or when the defense makes a mistake. I think it is time to go to a counter attack offense. Back to the 4-4-2 lineup and have Fred, Gallardo, Quaranta, and Emilio make runs into the box when possession changes. Five times DC has given up the first goal, all losses and four of them shutouts. They simply can't afford to give up the first goal.
Grades:
Forwards (Emilio and Niell) C-
Lack of imagination only mitigated by one or two quick decisions which resulted in shots on goal. Niell was directly and solely responsible for the second goal after a reckless giveaway at midfield.
Midfielders (Simms, Burch, Dyachenko, Moreno, and Quaranta) D
Simms was his normal, steady self. Moreno was also effective in the central midfield. Quaranta looked tired and uninterested. Burch proved once again that he has no right foot by failing to make simple passes with his right in favor of trying to make awkward stabs with his left. One time he sent the ball out of bounds on the far sideline because he tried to switch fields with an outside of the foot cross which he toed and missed his target by twenty yards. Even Prideaux was able to stay in front of him because he went to the end line every time he got close to the box.
Defenders (Namoff, Peralta, Martinez, and Wells) B+
Best game of the year from Wells. Namoff was the best player on the field for United. Peralta was fine except for his strange inability to control headers. Martinez was very solid and made several good runs with the ball.
Substitutes (Doe, Stratford, and Kirk) C
All were ineffective. Kirk only played about a minute.
I am now worried about making the playoffs. My worries can by put into to two main categories.
Personnel:
It look like the bench is no stronger this season than it has been in the past few years. With Gallardo and Fred out, the midfield was severely out classed by the Chicago Fire. Dyachenko is not creative enough and is prone to brain cramps where he holds the ball too long and gets it taken away from him. Burch, once again, proved he isn't a midfielder. In fact the whole DC United offense last night seemed to consist of passing the ball around in the midfield until someone kicked it directly to a Fire defender. Directly to them. And I have a question. If one of your forwards is the size of a small point guard and the man marking him is the size of a power forward, does it make sense to continuously play the ball in eight feet off the ground? Niell is pint sized, Dyachenko. Stop sending head balls to him.
Tactics:
Game after game, United seems unable to push forward with numbers. The slow build allows the opposition to father forces behind the ball and mount a defense which requires tremendous ball skills to penetrate. DC United lacks the requisite ball skills to do this, so what happens is any pass which isn't played into space or to Moreno is fumbled and turned over. Seven games, same results. When United scores it is in long ball passes or when the defense makes a mistake. I think it is time to go to a counter attack offense. Back to the 4-4-2 lineup and have Fred, Gallardo, Quaranta, and Emilio make runs into the box when possession changes. Five times DC has given up the first goal, all losses and four of them shutouts. They simply can't afford to give up the first goal.
Grades:
Forwards (Emilio and Niell) C-
Lack of imagination only mitigated by one or two quick decisions which resulted in shots on goal. Niell was directly and solely responsible for the second goal after a reckless giveaway at midfield.
Midfielders (Simms, Burch, Dyachenko, Moreno, and Quaranta) D
Simms was his normal, steady self. Moreno was also effective in the central midfield. Quaranta looked tired and uninterested. Burch proved once again that he has no right foot by failing to make simple passes with his right in favor of trying to make awkward stabs with his left. One time he sent the ball out of bounds on the far sideline because he tried to switch fields with an outside of the foot cross which he toed and missed his target by twenty yards. Even Prideaux was able to stay in front of him because he went to the end line every time he got close to the box.
Defenders (Namoff, Peralta, Martinez, and Wells) B+
Best game of the year from Wells. Namoff was the best player on the field for United. Peralta was fine except for his strange inability to control headers. Martinez was very solid and made several good runs with the ball.
Substitutes (Doe, Stratford, and Kirk) C
All were ineffective. Kirk only played about a minute.
Thursday, May 08, 2008
Preview of Game 7 - DC United vs Chicago Fire
DC United, 2-0-4 (W-D-L), welcome the team which knocked them out of the 2007 playoffs to RFK stadium for an ESPN2 national television matchup. DC United have been dreadful on the road this season, but they have played well at home. United, six points, is 2-0-1 at home this season with a +5 goal differential. DC United is currently in last place in the Eastern Conference, trailing Columbus by nine points. Columbus also leads the Supporter's Shield race with DC United in tenth.
Chicago are coming off of an impressive 3-0 whitewashing of New England on the road. Chicago have been excellent away from home this season with two wins and a tie in three games and a +4 goal differential. Chicago, thirteen points, are in second place in the Eastern Conference trailing Columbus by two points. They are also in second place in the Supporter's Shield race.
This is a game which could determine the shape of the Eastern Conference. If Chicago wins, they put a lot of distance between them and United, the preseason favorite. If United wins, they stay within arms reach of the conference leaders with the bulk of the MLS schedule remaining. It looks as though McTavish and Olsen are unavailable. I expect the starting lineup to be Moreno, Emilio, Fred, Gallardo, Simms, Quaranta, Dyachenko, Namoff, Peralta, Martinez, and Wells in a 3-5-2 formation.
Prediction:
DC United 1:2 Chicago
DC United, 2-0-4 (W-D-L), welcome the team which knocked them out of the 2007 playoffs to RFK stadium for an ESPN2 national television matchup. DC United have been dreadful on the road this season, but they have played well at home. United, six points, is 2-0-1 at home this season with a +5 goal differential. DC United is currently in last place in the Eastern Conference, trailing Columbus by nine points. Columbus also leads the Supporter's Shield race with DC United in tenth.
Chicago are coming off of an impressive 3-0 whitewashing of New England on the road. Chicago have been excellent away from home this season with two wins and a tie in three games and a +4 goal differential. Chicago, thirteen points, are in second place in the Eastern Conference trailing Columbus by two points. They are also in second place in the Supporter's Shield race.
This is a game which could determine the shape of the Eastern Conference. If Chicago wins, they put a lot of distance between them and United, the preseason favorite. If United wins, they stay within arms reach of the conference leaders with the bulk of the MLS schedule remaining. It looks as though McTavish and Olsen are unavailable. I expect the starting lineup to be Moreno, Emilio, Fred, Gallardo, Simms, Quaranta, Dyachenko, Namoff, Peralta, Martinez, and Wells in a 3-5-2 formation.
Prediction:
DC United 1:2 Chicago
Tuesday, May 06, 2008
Ich Bin Ein BerlinerDC United has issued a press release announcing the partnership with Volkswagen and photos of what the new uniforms will look like. I think I can get used to it. Not overly large, matches the uniform well and the circle logo even evokes a soccer ball a bit. All in all, very palatable.
Monday, May 05, 2008
Game 6 - DC United 0:2 Colorado Rapids
DC United were shut out for the third consecutive time on the road to begin the 2008 season. From watching the game, I didn't see anything that was definitively different from what they try to do at home. Fred was missing, but he cannot be the difference between four goals and a shutout. Moreno didn't start, but he played in the second half and never seemed to get it going. Colorado are a decent team, but United now have a -8 goal differential on the road in only three games.
I thought the defense played well and the two goals were more a result of good play by the Rapids. The first goal was vintage Christian Gomez. Just an excellent pass and an equally impressive one timer. The second goal was a very nice quick cross and header by Erpen. It was like old home week with the DC United Alumni Association: Colorado Chapter getting a bit of revenge. Peralta had a much better game in central defense. Zach Wells was not at fault on either goal. Both were rocket shots that I wouldn't expect any goalie to save.
I'm not sure if it is panic time yet, but in my 2008 season preview I crunched a few numbers and determined that DC United needed to average eleven points for every six games to have a shot at the Supporters Shield and eight points to make the playoffs. United stand on six points. They are now 20% of the way through the MLS schedule. I'm not in panic mode yet. However, after game twelve, United had better have at least eighteen points.
Grades
Forwards (Neill and Emilio) C-
Another quiet game from the forwards. Both were subbed out in the second half and deservedly so.
Midfielders (Gallardo, Simms, Burch, Quaranta, and Dyachenko) B-
I liked Dyachenko this game. He has some ball skills which can be developed. Simms was fine and Gallardo was the best player on the field for United. Burch is still out of his depth in the midfield. An off game from Quaranta.
Defenders (Namoff, Martinez, Peralta, and Wells) B+
Solid game from this group. No complaints. I liked the runs forward from Martinez and Namoff.
Substitutes (Moreno, Doe, and Kirk) C+
Doe and Kirk were unable to create any real chances. Moreno was unable to put a stamp on the game with a full half of work.
DC United were shut out for the third consecutive time on the road to begin the 2008 season. From watching the game, I didn't see anything that was definitively different from what they try to do at home. Fred was missing, but he cannot be the difference between four goals and a shutout. Moreno didn't start, but he played in the second half and never seemed to get it going. Colorado are a decent team, but United now have a -8 goal differential on the road in only three games.
I thought the defense played well and the two goals were more a result of good play by the Rapids. The first goal was vintage Christian Gomez. Just an excellent pass and an equally impressive one timer. The second goal was a very nice quick cross and header by Erpen. It was like old home week with the DC United Alumni Association: Colorado Chapter getting a bit of revenge. Peralta had a much better game in central defense. Zach Wells was not at fault on either goal. Both were rocket shots that I wouldn't expect any goalie to save.
I'm not sure if it is panic time yet, but in my 2008 season preview I crunched a few numbers and determined that DC United needed to average eleven points for every six games to have a shot at the Supporters Shield and eight points to make the playoffs. United stand on six points. They are now 20% of the way through the MLS schedule. I'm not in panic mode yet. However, after game twelve, United had better have at least eighteen points.
Grades
Forwards (Neill and Emilio) C-
Another quiet game from the forwards. Both were subbed out in the second half and deservedly so.
Midfielders (Gallardo, Simms, Burch, Quaranta, and Dyachenko) B-
I liked Dyachenko this game. He has some ball skills which can be developed. Simms was fine and Gallardo was the best player on the field for United. Burch is still out of his depth in the midfield. An off game from Quaranta.
Defenders (Namoff, Martinez, Peralta, and Wells) B+
Solid game from this group. No complaints. I liked the runs forward from Martinez and Namoff.
Substitutes (Moreno, Doe, and Kirk) C+
Doe and Kirk were unable to create any real chances. Moreno was unable to put a stamp on the game with a full half of work.
Friday, May 02, 2008
Olsen's Bad Wheel
According to Goff, DC United midfielder and my favorite player, Ben Olsen's career is in some danger. This is really sad news. In the back of my mind, I thought this was a possibility but I refused to really acknowledge it. Goff's report puts it in black and white. I wish Benny the best and won't be trading in my #14 jersey any time soon. However, this has real personnel ramifications for DC United this season. Last season Olsen was moved out to the wing because there wasn't anyone else to play there. Now the options are Quaranta who was cut recently, McTavish and Burch who are defenders, and Young Player To Be Named Later (Kirk, Jeff Carroll, Stratford). Maybe there will be a signing this summer to replace him, otherwise that could be a big hole to fill.
According to Goff, DC United midfielder and my favorite player, Ben Olsen's career is in some danger. This is really sad news. In the back of my mind, I thought this was a possibility but I refused to really acknowledge it. Goff's report puts it in black and white. I wish Benny the best and won't be trading in my #14 jersey any time soon. However, this has real personnel ramifications for DC United this season. Last season Olsen was moved out to the wing because there wasn't anyone else to play there. Now the options are Quaranta who was cut recently, McTavish and Burch who are defenders, and Young Player To Be Named Later (Kirk, Jeff Carroll, Stratford). Maybe there will be a signing this summer to replace him, otherwise that could be a big hole to fill.
Preview of Game 6 - DC United at Colorado Rapids
DC United travels to Rocky Mountains for a mile high date with the Colorado Rapids. DC United has been quite the Jekyll and Hyde team this season playing very well at home and downright dreadful on the road. United is 0-0-2 (W-D-L) on the road with a -6 goal differential (zero goals scored). United, 2-0-3, is in last place in the Eastern Conference, six points behind Columbus. DC is tied for ninth in the Supporter's Shield race also led by Columbus.
Colorado Rapids are in the midst of a two game losing streak, netting a single goal in the 180 minutes. They are an average team so far with a win and a loss at home in their two games. The Rapids have a +2 goal differential. Colorado, 2-0-3, trails Western Conference leading FC Dallas by two points and Supporter's Shield leading Columbus by six points.
So the big question entering this game is whether DC United can shake their road funk and pull out at least a point. After this game, twenty percent of the season will be over. If United wins, they will be on pace for a 45 point season, a tie puts them on a 35 point pace, and a loss puts them on a 30 point pace. Last season it took 40 points to make the playoffs. Not good numbers, but it is still early. McTavish appears to be out again this week and Fred is questionable but will make the trip. I expect the starting lineup to be Emilio, Moreno, Gallardo, Fred, Quaranta, Simms, Burch, Namoff, Martinez, Peralta, and Wells in a 4-4-2 formation. Subs should be Dyachenko, Niell, and Stratford.
Prediction:
DC United 2:2 Colorado Rapids
DC United travels to Rocky Mountains for a mile high date with the Colorado Rapids. DC United has been quite the Jekyll and Hyde team this season playing very well at home and downright dreadful on the road. United is 0-0-2 (W-D-L) on the road with a -6 goal differential (zero goals scored). United, 2-0-3, is in last place in the Eastern Conference, six points behind Columbus. DC is tied for ninth in the Supporter's Shield race also led by Columbus.
Colorado Rapids are in the midst of a two game losing streak, netting a single goal in the 180 minutes. They are an average team so far with a win and a loss at home in their two games. The Rapids have a +2 goal differential. Colorado, 2-0-3, trails Western Conference leading FC Dallas by two points and Supporter's Shield leading Columbus by six points.
So the big question entering this game is whether DC United can shake their road funk and pull out at least a point. After this game, twenty percent of the season will be over. If United wins, they will be on pace for a 45 point season, a tie puts them on a 35 point pace, and a loss puts them on a 30 point pace. Last season it took 40 points to make the playoffs. Not good numbers, but it is still early. McTavish appears to be out again this week and Fred is questionable but will make the trip. I expect the starting lineup to be Emilio, Moreno, Gallardo, Fred, Quaranta, Simms, Burch, Namoff, Martinez, Peralta, and Wells in a 4-4-2 formation. Subs should be Dyachenko, Niell, and Stratford.
Prediction:
DC United 2:2 Colorado Rapids
DC United Now Diesel Powered
It has been revealed that DC United has signed an agreement with German auto manufacturer Volkswagen to be the company to place it's logo in the gigantic empty space on DC United's 2008 jerseys. We all knew this was coming. I'm of two minds about it. I don't like the idea of jersey advertising. It seems cheap and tacky. However, I realize that soccer doesn't have the same opportunities to sell advertising as the traditional American sports do. There are no TV timeouts, no stops in the action, no "we'll be back after this". So you have signs along the sidelines, you have logos next to the clock on TV, and you have jersey sponsors. The reported numbers are $3.7 million a year. That is a big number, and it is more than I thought DC Untied would get. It dwarfs the current salary cap number.
I will reserve final judgement until I see the design. I would imagine it would debut next Thursday on the ESPN national TV game. It has to be either a white or red logo on the black background and a black or red logo on the white background I would think. I am having a tough time picturing a circular logo on the jersey after the Adidas triple horizontal stripes.
But as Robert C. Gallagher said, "Change is inevitable - except from a vending machine."
It has been revealed that DC United has signed an agreement with German auto manufacturer Volkswagen to be the company to place it's logo in the gigantic empty space on DC United's 2008 jerseys. We all knew this was coming. I'm of two minds about it. I don't like the idea of jersey advertising. It seems cheap and tacky. However, I realize that soccer doesn't have the same opportunities to sell advertising as the traditional American sports do. There are no TV timeouts, no stops in the action, no "we'll be back after this". So you have signs along the sidelines, you have logos next to the clock on TV, and you have jersey sponsors. The reported numbers are $3.7 million a year. That is a big number, and it is more than I thought DC Untied would get. It dwarfs the current salary cap number.
I will reserve final judgement until I see the design. I would imagine it would debut next Thursday on the ESPN national TV game. It has to be either a white or red logo on the black background and a black or red logo on the white background I would think. I am having a tough time picturing a circular logo on the jersey after the Adidas triple horizontal stripes.
But as Robert C. Gallagher said, "Change is inevitable - except from a vending machine."
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Game 5 - DC United 4:1 Real Salt Lake
So I managed to avoid seeing the score of this game during the time I was on vacation and was able to watch it on tape. As always, I don't look at anyone other blogs or articles before writing up my review, so I apologize if my comments are redundant.
I liked the formation. Not sure about giving the new kid Stratford the start in midfield, but it looks like Soehn wanted to give him some minutes, and I bet he has been great in training sessions and this was a reward. Quaranta should remain in the right midfield role at least until Olsen returns and if the formation remains 3-5-2, maybe Olsen is returned to defensive midfield. Gallardo, Emilio, and Moreno worked very well together with Quaranta and Fred/Burch working the wings. Even Namoff and Martinez made several runs into the box which I have been waiting for defenders to do for years. I would still like to see Moreno in the midfield but I'll take this formation for the next few weeks to see how it progresses.
I was not at all happy with Wells. He seemed indecisive and poorly positioned. He made one excellent reflex save, but was several yards away from a bushel of near misses. And one play particularly vexed me. On the free kick from the top of the box which hit the post, he didn't even make an attempt. I want to see the goalie dive for it even if it is a futile attempt. Let's see some effort out there. And I hope D gave the referee full marks for this game. Best officiated game I have seen this year.
Grades
Forwards (Emilio and Moreno) B
Excellent use of his body to shield the defender and earn the penalty. He seemed a bit better at the post up but still not great. Moreno was his menacing best. Keeping possession, making good passes and converting his penalty kicks. I could do without the heart attack chip shot, but as long as he continues to convert, he's my guy at the spot.
Midfielders (Gallardo, Simms, Fred, Quaranta, and Stratford) B+
Simms seemed a bit off during the first half. Uncharacteristic bad passes, losing shape, and out of position. I think it was probably how badly Stratford was playing, but I was still surprised by it. Stratford was obviously a bit overwhelmed and was justifiably removed. I think he'll be fine, but he was all over the place and not accomplishing anything. Fred goes down with what looked like a quad bruise. But he and Quaranta looked very nice on the wings. Gallardo had his best game this year and both his and Tino's goals were things of beauty. However, Gallardo's has goal of the year potential. Wow.
Defenders (Namoff, Martinez, Peralta, and Wells) B-
I liked the runs they made. I liked the covering for each other. I liked the toughness. I liked the good decisions they made. I hated the goal tending.
Substitutes (Burch, Dyachenko, and Kirk) A-
Excellent work by this group. I still don't like Burch in the midfield. he has no right foot and his crosses aren't very accurate. But is an emergency situation, he played very well. Dyachenko did well to push the attack and allow Gallardo to play closer to the goal. Kirk got his feet wet. I want to see some more from him.
So I managed to avoid seeing the score of this game during the time I was on vacation and was able to watch it on tape. As always, I don't look at anyone other blogs or articles before writing up my review, so I apologize if my comments are redundant.
I liked the formation. Not sure about giving the new kid Stratford the start in midfield, but it looks like Soehn wanted to give him some minutes, and I bet he has been great in training sessions and this was a reward. Quaranta should remain in the right midfield role at least until Olsen returns and if the formation remains 3-5-2, maybe Olsen is returned to defensive midfield. Gallardo, Emilio, and Moreno worked very well together with Quaranta and Fred/Burch working the wings. Even Namoff and Martinez made several runs into the box which I have been waiting for defenders to do for years. I would still like to see Moreno in the midfield but I'll take this formation for the next few weeks to see how it progresses.
I was not at all happy with Wells. He seemed indecisive and poorly positioned. He made one excellent reflex save, but was several yards away from a bushel of near misses. And one play particularly vexed me. On the free kick from the top of the box which hit the post, he didn't even make an attempt. I want to see the goalie dive for it even if it is a futile attempt. Let's see some effort out there. And I hope D gave the referee full marks for this game. Best officiated game I have seen this year.
Grades
Forwards (Emilio and Moreno) B
Excellent use of his body to shield the defender and earn the penalty. He seemed a bit better at the post up but still not great. Moreno was his menacing best. Keeping possession, making good passes and converting his penalty kicks. I could do without the heart attack chip shot, but as long as he continues to convert, he's my guy at the spot.
Midfielders (Gallardo, Simms, Fred, Quaranta, and Stratford) B+
Simms seemed a bit off during the first half. Uncharacteristic bad passes, losing shape, and out of position. I think it was probably how badly Stratford was playing, but I was still surprised by it. Stratford was obviously a bit overwhelmed and was justifiably removed. I think he'll be fine, but he was all over the place and not accomplishing anything. Fred goes down with what looked like a quad bruise. But he and Quaranta looked very nice on the wings. Gallardo had his best game this year and both his and Tino's goals were things of beauty. However, Gallardo's has goal of the year potential. Wow.
Defenders (Namoff, Martinez, Peralta, and Wells) B-
I liked the runs they made. I liked the covering for each other. I liked the toughness. I liked the good decisions they made. I hated the goal tending.
Substitutes (Burch, Dyachenko, and Kirk) A-
Excellent work by this group. I still don't like Burch in the midfield. he has no right foot and his crosses aren't very accurate. But is an emergency situation, he played very well. Dyachenko did well to push the attack and allow Gallardo to play closer to the goal. Kirk got his feet wet. I want to see some more from him.
Saturday, April 26, 2008
Friday, April 18, 2008
Game 4 - DC United 1:2 Columbus Crew
I am worried. I wasn't this worried last year when DC United started with three losses and a tie in the first four games. Then I was thinking, new coach, new players, give them a month and we'll see what happens. Now I am thinking same coach, two home games, a road game against the awful RSL, and some more new players. There have been two shutouts and another one goal game. There has been better defense, and there has been an inconsistent offense. Why do I feel worse? Why do I feel like there isn't going to be a huge turn around? Why do I feel the depth issues are as bad or worse as last year? Is it all Ben Olsen? Is it Gomez' absence? Or Perkins? Man for man, I like this starting roster more than last year's. Peralta and Martinez are better central defenders than Boswell and Vanney were. What are the problems?
Grades
Forwards (Emilio and Moreno) C-
Very little possession from these two. When they were in position, they didn't make good decisions.
Midfielders (Fred, Gallardo, McTavish, and Simms) B-
Just an average game from this group. I still don't like McTavish in the midfield. Fred was good, but not great. Gallardo worked very hard but kept trying to get the ball to Emilio when he was posting up. A whole lot of effort with not much in the way of results.
Defenders (Namoff, Peralta, Martinez, Burch, and Wells) D
Terrible communication between goalie and defenders. Martinez and Wells were yelling at each other at one point. The two goals were comical and a third took a remarkable save from Wells to prevent.
Substitutes (Niell, Dyachenko, and Quaranta) B
Not bad from this group. Dyachenko showed good ball handling and vision. Quaranta was involved in trying to get the equalizer and Niell didn't throw up all over himself. He did whiff on his one good chance, though.
Apologies for not posting a preview of this game. I had one
half finished, then work got busy and I spaced on finishing it. Sorry
I am worried. I wasn't this worried last year when DC United started with three losses and a tie in the first four games. Then I was thinking, new coach, new players, give them a month and we'll see what happens. Now I am thinking same coach, two home games, a road game against the awful RSL, and some more new players. There have been two shutouts and another one goal game. There has been better defense, and there has been an inconsistent offense. Why do I feel worse? Why do I feel like there isn't going to be a huge turn around? Why do I feel the depth issues are as bad or worse as last year? Is it all Ben Olsen? Is it Gomez' absence? Or Perkins? Man for man, I like this starting roster more than last year's. Peralta and Martinez are better central defenders than Boswell and Vanney were. What are the problems?
- Emilio is not a post up forward. He cannot play with a man on his back, and another closing in from the side. He will invariably cough up the ball. Most of the time he can't control the ball so it stays at his feet. It bounces away and the defense takes possession.
- Too much offense has been flowing through McTavish. His skill set is not developed enough to distribute the ball forward. Balls on the ground are not precise enough or not given the proper weight. Crosses are balloon balls which give the defense too much time to recover and disrupt the play.
- Not enough runs into the box. United's offense seems to be build from the back and then pass around the outside of the penalty box until someone wins a corner or gives up the ball. For a team that went like two years between corner kick goals, that is not a winning strategy.
- Quaranta should be starting until Olsen returns. This seems so obvious. Keep Burch and McTavish out of the midfield. Put Santino up top and Jamie in the midfield. How about playing Jamie in the middle and Gallardo in the "Donovan" USMNT position? A little up and a little right. Let Namoff play a little forward to fill the space with Martinez on his side to compensate when he runs forward.
- Atrocious gambles and goals in the box. Both goals this week were the result of bad marking and bad goalie positioning. There is no virtue in playing great defense for eighty-eight minutes and two minutes of kiddie league tactics.
Grades
Forwards (Emilio and Moreno) C-
Very little possession from these two. When they were in position, they didn't make good decisions.
Midfielders (Fred, Gallardo, McTavish, and Simms) B-
Just an average game from this group. I still don't like McTavish in the midfield. Fred was good, but not great. Gallardo worked very hard but kept trying to get the ball to Emilio when he was posting up. A whole lot of effort with not much in the way of results.
Defenders (Namoff, Peralta, Martinez, Burch, and Wells) D
Terrible communication between goalie and defenders. Martinez and Wells were yelling at each other at one point. The two goals were comical and a third took a remarkable save from Wells to prevent.
Substitutes (Niell, Dyachenko, and Quaranta) B
Not bad from this group. Dyachenko showed good ball handling and vision. Quaranta was involved in trying to get the equalizer and Niell didn't throw up all over himself. He did whiff on his one good chance, though.
Sunday, April 13, 2008
Game 3 - DC United 0:4 Real Salt Lake
Oh, holy shit! This was the worst performance by a DC United team since the 4-0 shellacking in the playoffs by Chicago in 2005. There was nothing redeeming about it. Nothing. The goal tending was crap. The defending was worse. The midfielders couldn't pass to the forwards. The forwards couldn't make good runs. We will never speak of this game again.
This is two years in a row that United has started the backup keeper in Salt Lake City. Why do that on turf when you are also sitting Gallardo and Martinez? I said it last year after the RSL road game, and I'll say it again, starting every game shouldn't be a problem for a goalie with no injury issues. This isn't hockey. And wasn't Rod Dyachenko pulled from the game for his awful play at RSL? Yes, he was pulled in the 44th minute and wasn't injured. Nice choice, Tom, to put him in there. Maybe he doesn't play well on this type of field? Hmmm?
The only thing you can say in United's defense is that it was played on that god-forsaken artificial turf which causes the ball to travel at warp speed. It removes 3% of the bad taste. The 97% that remains is enough to make you want to take a shower. And don't forget, that makes two straight shutouts on the road. Dammit! Why are United the only team in the league who can't beat RSL in Utah.
Grades
Forwards, Midfielders, Defenders, and Substitutes F
Oh, holy shit! This was the worst performance by a DC United team since the 4-0 shellacking in the playoffs by Chicago in 2005. There was nothing redeeming about it. Nothing. The goal tending was crap. The defending was worse. The midfielders couldn't pass to the forwards. The forwards couldn't make good runs. We will never speak of this game again.
This is two years in a row that United has started the backup keeper in Salt Lake City. Why do that on turf when you are also sitting Gallardo and Martinez? I said it last year after the RSL road game, and I'll say it again, starting every game shouldn't be a problem for a goalie with no injury issues. This isn't hockey. And wasn't Rod Dyachenko pulled from the game for his awful play at RSL? Yes, he was pulled in the 44th minute and wasn't injured. Nice choice, Tom, to put him in there. Maybe he doesn't play well on this type of field? Hmmm?
The only thing you can say in United's defense is that it was played on that god-forsaken artificial turf which causes the ball to travel at warp speed. It removes 3% of the bad taste. The 97% that remains is enough to make you want to take a shower. And don't forget, that makes two straight shutouts on the road. Dammit! Why are United the only team in the league who can't beat RSL in Utah.
Grades
Forwards, Midfielders, Defenders, and Substitutes F
Friday, April 11, 2008
Preview of Game 3 - DC United at Real Salt Lake
DC United, 1-0-1 (W-D-L), head to Utah to take on Real Salt Lake. DC United won last week 4-1 over Toronto FC. DC United lost their only road game 2-0 at Kansas City. United are tied for fourth in the Eastern Conference (1.50 PPG), 3 points behind Kansas City and New England (2.00 PPG) with a game in hand. Kansas City and New England are also in first place in the Supporter's Shield race with United tied for 6th.
Real Salt Lake, 0-1-1 (W-D-L), have not shown much improvement this season. They have allowed six goals in the first two games this season and only netted three themselves. They are tied for 5th place in the Western Conference (0.50 PPG), three points behind Chivas USA and in 11th place in the Supporter's Shield race.
United will be without Ben Olsen again, but otherwise should have the full compliment of players. I expect the starting eleven for United to be Emilio, Quaranta, Gallardo, Fred, McTavish, Simms, Namoff, Burch, Martinez, Peralta, and Wells in a 4-4-2 formation. Moreno, Dyachanko, and Niell all should get in during the second half. Look for Emilio and Fred to get on the goal sheet.
Prediction:
DC United 3:1 Real Salt Lake
DC United, 1-0-1 (W-D-L), head to Utah to take on Real Salt Lake. DC United won last week 4-1 over Toronto FC. DC United lost their only road game 2-0 at Kansas City. United are tied for fourth in the Eastern Conference (1.50 PPG), 3 points behind Kansas City and New England (2.00 PPG) with a game in hand. Kansas City and New England are also in first place in the Supporter's Shield race with United tied for 6th.
Real Salt Lake, 0-1-1 (W-D-L), have not shown much improvement this season. They have allowed six goals in the first two games this season and only netted three themselves. They are tied for 5th place in the Western Conference (0.50 PPG), three points behind Chivas USA and in 11th place in the Supporter's Shield race.
United will be without Ben Olsen again, but otherwise should have the full compliment of players. I expect the starting eleven for United to be Emilio, Quaranta, Gallardo, Fred, McTavish, Simms, Namoff, Burch, Martinez, Peralta, and Wells in a 4-4-2 formation. Moreno, Dyachanko, and Niell all should get in during the second half. Look for Emilio and Fred to get on the goal sheet.
Prediction:
DC United 3:1 Real Salt Lake
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