DC United is beginning to put in a solid season with their latest win coming against the hapless Toronto FC. After 90 minutes was played, the score stood at 3-1 behind two goals by Dwayne De Rosario and a goal from Hamdi Salihi. DC United’s record now stands at 7-4-3 (W-L-D) while Toronto is 0-9-0.
De Rosario continued his amazing success against former clubs. Just a minute into the match, United earned a free kick just outside the box, and Branko Boskovic’s kick found the head of De Rosario for the first goal. It doesn’t take a dummy to realize how important early goals are in matches, especially goals coming in the first minute. De Rosario’s header put Toronto down early, and with the type of season Toronto has had, any momentum they might have had before the game was probably shot. The reigning MLS MVP’s heroics earned him MLS Player of the Week.
Branko Boskovic put on another good performance, and its really starting to look like he might have secured a starting spot, at least for now. I’ve always rooted for the guy, because I think he’s a good player. The end of his contract is coming up, so he needs to keep playing well if he wants to keep earning DP money and stay at DC United. So far, he’s improved every match. If this keeps up, I think we’ll see him finish out the season in a black and red uniform. Plus, his friendship with Salihi could lead to great chemistry if the two of them keep their starting roles.
Moving from the offense to the defense, I’ve really been impressed with the backline and midfield since the 5-3 loss to the San Jose Earthquakes. In the last four matches, United has only allowed two goals. Yes, the backline is the biggest reason for that, but the entire club should be proud of that achievement. They say if you don’t have the ball, you’re on defense no matter what position you play. Going by that, all 11 players on the pitch are the reason for the great defensive efforts. Bill Hamid has regained his starting role with confidence, and the make-shift backline has stuck together. With Dejan Jakovic coming back from injury, the backline could remain just as strong.
Overall, this was a result that was expected so not too much fanfare should be given, although a win is a win and should be celebrated as such. DC has one more match in their three match homestand against the New England Revolution. The chance to win three in a row and be in good position entering June is a real possibility.
(image courtesy of dcunited.com)
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