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Behind the Badge: The Official Blog of D.C. United

July 2008 Archives

Tax free DCU gear

07/31/2008 4:58 PM by Cris Cruz

If you haven't yet purchased your D.C. United gear or would like more, now is the time to do so. The District is having a "DC Sales Tax Holiday" from August 2 - 10, where clothing, shoes and accessory items will be exempt from the 5.75% sales tax.

So beginning with our home game against the Wizards and all throughout the following week, the D.C. United Official Team Store will NOT be charging sales tax. This tax-free holiday ends Sunday, August 10 so come out and shop for DCU gear!


Road trip!

07/31/2008 3:39 PM by Cris Cruz

Want to see United play against the Red Bulls in New York (NJ)? The Screaming Eagles and Barra Brava are both planning road trips to support D.C. in their upcoming match at Giants Stadium on Sunday, August 10. Space is limited so contact them NOW and go cheer on the Black-and-Red!

Screaming Eagles
Itinerary:
9:30 a.m. - Leave Summers Restaurant, 1520 N. Court House Road, Arlington,VA
10:00 a.m. - Pick up at New Carrollton Metro stop, Garden City Dr side
11:30 a.m. - Pick up at the Delaware House rest stop on Route 95
5 p.m. - D.C. United vs. New York Red Bulls
 
Cost: 
Members $65, Non Members $75, Tickets Only $20
 
More info here.
 
La Barra Brava
Itinerary:
9:30 a.m. - The bus will depart from Kilroy’s in Springfield, VA
10:00 a.m. - Pick up from New Carrollton Metro station
11:00 a.m. - Pick up from the Maryland House on I-95
5 p.m. - D.C. United vs. New York Red Bulls
 
Cost:
Members $70,  Non Members $85, Ticket only Members $20, Ticket only Non-Members $30
 
For more info contact Oscar.
 

Video: Soehn on Washington Post Live

07/31/2008 12:32 PM by Kyle Sheldon

Video below from Head Coach Tom Soehn's appearance on Washington Post Live on Tuesday.  


Ivan Guerrero acquired from San Jose

07/31/2008 9:23 AM by Kyle Sheldon

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We're set to announce later today that the club has acquired Ivan Guerrero from the San Jose Earthquakes for a partial allocation.  Guerrero is expected to be in D.C. shortly and may very well be available for Saturday's game against the Wizards.  

Able to play in either the defense or midfield, Guerrero has seen time in 14 games (13 starts) this year after being picked up by San Jose in the 2007 Expansion Draft.  He previously played three seasons for the Chicago Fire from 2005-06, making 74 appearances (71 starts) and notching three goals and 16 assists.  While in Chicago, he also played in five MLS Cup playoff games (five starts) collecting two goals and an assist. 

A native Honduran, the 30-year old has also previously played for Peñarol (Uruguay), CD Motagua (Honduras) and Coventry City (England).  Additionally, he has been a constant fixture on the Honduran national team, notching three goals in 79 appearances at the senior level.  

Guerrero holds a green card and thus will not count towards United's international roster limit. 

What are your thoughts on the pick-up? 


Doe update, Thompson upgraded

07/31/2008 9:21 AM by Kyle Sheldon

A couple of quick updates from Robert F. Kennedy Memorial Stadium...

Francis Doe has been dealing with a pretty severe toe infection for the last few weeks and yesterday went to have it checked out.  Doe went through a process called debridement, which removes the infected tissue.  It's tough to say immediately how long he'll be out, but he'll likely miss at least a couple of weeks while healing. 

In other news, Craig Thompson has been upgraded from a developmental contract to the senior roster, while Mike Zaher has been moved to the developmental roster.  The club's newest signing, Thompson has played in each of United's last five games (four starts), seeing time in the U.S. Open Cup, SuperLiga and League play.  


New feature on Behind The Badge

07/29/2008 10:50 AM by Kyle Sheldon

Howdy, folks!  Happy Tuesday to you.  Just a quick note to draw your attention to a new feature on Behind The Badge.  You may have already noticed in the upper right corner of the site what we're calling the 'login widget.'  Once registered and logged-in, the widget will display your user name and personal avatar (or profile image) and allow you to easily access your account settings.  The account settings page allows you to edit your basic profile (display name, email address, password and URL), change your profile image and also now includes an extended profile.  The extended profile captures some basic demographic information, which will help us to better serve you, the fans (we won't sell or share this information with anyone - it's only for internal planning purposes). 

If you haven't done so already, try uploading a profile image.  It looks pretty cool once you do and are logged-in.  If you have feedback on the widget or experience any issues, feel free to drop me a line


Tom Soehn to appear on WPL

07/29/2008 10:34 AM by Doug Hicks

United Head Coach Tom Soehn will join host Russ Thaler on the set of Comcast SportsNet's Washington Post Live this evening.  United's bench boss will be on air at 5:35 p.m. to discuss United's season to date and take a look at Saturday's match with the Kansas City Wizards.  Tune in, then click here to join us at RFK this weekend.


Internally speaking

07/29/2008 10:01 AM by Doug Hicks

A lot has been made of the fact that D.C. United’s technical staff is looking outside of the club for reinforcements on the field to aid the club during the stretch run of the Major League Soccer season and in CONCACAF Champions League play. What is far more important, and mostly overlooked, is how the club achieves success by looking internally when times are tough. 

That was the case Monday night, when United’s players and front office gathered for dinner at Chima Brazilian Steakhouse in Tyson’s Corner. Following weeks that saw the team play two and sometimes three times in a week, the group has some unusual downtime as all have a full week to prepare for Saturday’s match against Kansas City.
                       
Over heaps of food, the group mixed, mingled and spent some time enjoying each other’s company. The end result is a strengthened, relaxed group that reported to work this morning prepared for the task at hand, knowing that success will be attained together. 
 
No speeches needed. At D.C. United, it is understood. We’re in this thing together…the team, the staff, the supporters. We all are dedicated to success, United.
 

Tony's Take: Morenology

07/29/2008 9:27 AM by Tony Limarzi

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During the 2004 season, D.C. United played a game late in the season in Columbus which they lost 1-0.  At the end of the game Jaime Moreno had a chance to save a point for D.C. with a diving header.  Jon Busch made a great reflex save to preserve the points for the Crew.  At the hotel after the game I saw Jaime and I told him what a great effort the header was and I couldn’t believe that Busch saved it.  Jaime smiled at me and said, “That’s life.”  How philosophical.

Lately I’ve been reflecting on the teachings of Jaime Moreno, and how his theories about life can be applied to the current frustration for United.  The four straight losses at R.F.K. Stadium have been disappointing, but as Jaime often says, “Like I always say: Everything happens for a reason.”   So, let’s see if we can come up with some potential reasons for this losing streak.

First, let me say that this is not a sour grapes article about the irrelevance of Superliga.  Losing four in a row is very upsetting, and it’s always better to win.  Yet, D.C. United players and fans have seen over the past two seasons that it’s very difficult (maybe impossible) to maintain positive results for five months in a row.  The back to back Supporters’ Shields were impressive, but maybe the team would’ve preferred to have been firing on all cylinders three weeks later than they were.  If that’s the case, then United now has extra time to focus on getting back on track in the league, and getting players healthy.

D.C. United will be working on a regular schedule for the next two weeks; playing matches only on the weekend.  It’s the first time since June that the team hasn’t had any mid-week matches, and that could help United in the other tournament they’re currently still alive in - the U.S. Open Cup.  D.C.’s opponent in the Open Cup semifinal is New England, one of the MLS teams still alive in Superliga.  If New England makes it to the Superliga final, they’d have to play on Tuesday in Superliga, Saturday in league play vs. Chicago, and the following Tuesday in the Open Cup semifinal at R.F.K.  I’m not encouraging others to cheer for the Revolution, but it is very difficult to play three games in eight days, and D.C. would be much more rested going into the Open Cup semifinal (even though D.C. plays in New York on the Sunday before that Open Cup game).

September 16 is the first matchday for United in the inaugural CONCACAF Champions League.  This new tournament is going to be spectacular.  Lately, United has not done as well as they would’ve liked in their international tournaments, but it’s hard to imagine a lack of intensity from anyone in an exciting, new tournament with so much at stake.  With the MLS rosters being limited the way they are, it is incredibly unlikely that any MLS team could run the table with Superliga, Supporters’ Shield, U.S. Open Cup, MLS Cup, and Champions League.  D.C. was a long shot at best to win all of those competitions, and Superliga was probably the least significant one. 

The positive feelings from United’s recent six-game winning streak faded quickly with the current slide, but it could be worse.  The schedule over the next three months for United is pretty crowded.  Another four-game losing streak would be disastrous for D.C.  So if such a bad spell was going to happen at some point, better now than in the next three or five weeks.  Losing stinks, but at times good things can come from losses, and even though it came at the expense of advancing in Superliga, the time off could be the key to another excellent stretch for United.  Maybe that will be the reason that Jaime is looking for. 

Tony Limarzi, the Radio Voice of D.C. United, provides live match commentary for all D.C. United games on WFED 1050 AM. He recently published his first book,Forza Italia, which is the story of the summer of 2006 – both Italy’s World Cup win in Germany and United’s MLS season. 


Caption Contest: Gheorghe Muresan edition

07/28/2008 12:18 PM by Kyle Sheldon

Earlier this year, former Washington Bullet Gheorghe Muresan visited the D.C. United locker room.  The Romanian is a big soccer fan and attends a few United games each year.  The 7-foot, 7-inch Muresan is pictured below with Brazilians Luciano Emilio and Fred.  The three serve as the subjects for our first Behind The Badge Caption Content.  

Simply drop captions for Gheorghe, Luciano and Fred in the comment section below, remembering to keep all entries clean and family-friendly.  We'll pick our favorite and award the winner four tickets to an upcoming D.C. United game. 

Entries will be accepted through Friday, August 1.  Best of luck.  

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Access United: Houston Dynamo recap

07/28/2008 10:59 AM by Kyle Sheldon

After a three-day weekend the team is back at it today, preparing for its match against the Kansas City Wizards on Saturday (got your tickets yet?).  If you haven't yet seen it, here is the Access United recap following last Wednesday's very strange loss to the Dynamo.  There's some great footage of the rain coming down.  Past editions of Access United are here


Short break [team store closed]

07/24/2008 6:06 PM by Kyle Sheldon

Well, after nine straight home games from June 14 to last night, the United powers-that-be have decided not only to give the team a long weekend, but the front office staff as well.  United's offices will be closed tomorrow - Friday, July 25 - and reopen on Monday, July 28.  So, don't call us. 

The D.C. United Team Store at RFK Stadium will also be closed tomorrow.  We'll hit the ground running again on Monday with a special contest, so be sure to check back. 


Photo of the Day: Three hour delay!

07/24/2008 11:26 AM by Kyle Sheldon

Last night was ridiculous.  Our unofficial official blog photographer Chris Leon captured some of the craziness, including the shot below during the 2-hour 54-minute delay.  You can see additional shots from last night on the Video & Pics page. 

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MLS Game #16: Houston 2 - DCU 0

07/24/2008 12:08 AM by Kyle Sheldon

As if losing didn't hurt enough, we had to wait almost three hours to do it.  We'll have just a few post-game quotes before departing RFK, hopefully before 1:30 a.m. Ugh. 

The team has the weekend off, before their August 2 home match against the Kansas City Wizards.  In addition to all of the team's current injuries, Tom Soehn will now be without Gonzalo Martinez who got his second yellow card late in the game and will have to serve a one game suspension.

UPDATE #74 (1:11 a.m.):  Post-game quotes from both sides below.  Sheldon out. 

D.C. UNITED HEAD COACH TOM SOEHN
On the three hour delay
Houston wanted it [called] off but we wanted to play so we wanted to wait as long as we could or as long as they’d allow us to.
 
On the team’s play
As a whole it was bad. We’re going to take this time – we’ve got a 10-day stretch – and we’re going to make some changes. We’re going to make our team stronger and we’re going to get back to the basics. We’re going to work our t-shirts off to make sure there are no excuses about fitness or [anything]. They outworked us today, period, all over the field.
 
On potential roster changes
We’re going to bring in some reinforcements. People that I think are going to make us better in the spots of the field that we need to get better at.
 
On getting back together after the delay
They came out motivated – in the second half, they came out with a little bit of energy, a little bit of light. After the rain delay we came out like we did in the first half, no energy, no light. And to [Houston’s] credit, they did and they punished us over and over again.
 
On the recent circumstances
With the lights going out and the stadium not having electricity, it’s been a little strange but right now we have a ten-day period of break. For a couple of days I’ll give them off but then we’re going to get back to work, make sure we focus on the things we need to focus on.
 
On whether he was satisfied with anything
I wasn’t satisfied with anyone’s performance – not from my team.
 
D.C. UNITED MIDFIELDER CLYDE SIMMS
On the team’s play after the three hour delay
We didn’t play the way we should have given the conditions.  We still played short too much during that time and we should have dumped more balls forward.  I don’t know if it’s tired legs also, but we need a break right now.
 
On what the team did during the delay
[We were] Sitting around, trying to eat a little bit of food and keep energy up, but basically just sitting around waiting because you never know when you’re going to go back on.
 
On the team’s mindset
You know, we’re frustrated.  We can’t put our finger on what it is right now, but I think the break is going to help us – it’s coming at a good time. We’ll come back to work next week and try to fix things.
 
On Tom Soehn potentially making changes to the lineup
He’s got to do what’s got to do.  Whenever a team isn’t doing well, obviously there’s got to be changes made but only time will tell what those changes will be.
 
D.C. UNITED GOALKEEPER ZACH WELLS
On the team
I thought before the [three hour] break started, I thought we came out a lot better in the second half, we put a lot more pressure on them and had the ball a lot in their end. Unfortunately, I feel like – with the Chivas game as well – the lights going out kind of worked against us again. It’s hard to get back up after three hours of waiting. I’m not going to make excuses, but it did break our momentum a little bit.
 
On the team’s mindset
Tommy [Soehn] said we just lost four in a row, which is the first time it’s happened in D.C. United history, so no one is really happy about that one. We’re not pleased with the way we started the second half of the season. We came out and wanted to get some more points and climb the ladder and just got out-competed I guess.
 
HOUSTON DYNAMO FORWARD BRIAN CHING
On the game
I don’t think I’ve ever been playing at midnight. Crazy, crazy game but glad its over, glad we got the three points we really needed to move up in the standings in the west.
 
On playing after the delay
I think the hardest part when you get back out there is to be mentally in the game because you’re so jacked up and jazzed up the first time around that you kind of come down after that. To get back in there - with both teams I think you see it took a little while to get back into it. It was unfortunate but like I said we’re just happy to come out with three points.
 
HOUSTON DYNAMO HEAD COACH DOMINIC KINNEAR
On this game
It’s been a weird date on the schedule. Anything that could have happened, happened. The lightning, rain, the power outage…[I’m] just glad that we got it in and even more glad that we got the win.
 
On keeping focused
I think you just let the guys be themselves. We just sat in here, gave them updates but nothing too specific until they said we’re starting to play. Then we went through a team talk but guys are not all the same, they get ready in different ways so you let them be themselves.
 
 

This is not a joke, though it feels like one

07/23/2008 8:49 PM by Kyle Sheldon

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It's raining like I've never seen it rain before.  75% of the stadium's lights just went out.  The game has been stopped in the 54th minute.  And now, the field boards behind the north goal have fallen over.  And there are large puddles forming on the field.  And there's lightning. And 500 members of Barra Brava continue to chant and sing.  And now large thunderclaps have joined in. 

God does not want this game to happen.  Ever. 

UPDATE #1 (8:58 p.m.):  No joke, 75% of the field is covered with puddles.  No, not puddles - ponds.  Nope, ponds are too small.  There are gigantic lakes all over the field.  

UPDATE #2 (9:04 p.m.):  The lights are back on, but now we have to wait for the lightning to clear.. and perhaps the field to drain. 

UPDATE #3 (9:11 p.m.):  Photo added.  You can see - it's pretty bad. 

UPDATE #4 (9:43 p.m.):  The field is slowly draining and the lightning appears to have stopped.. rain has slowed down, too.  I'm told the game needs to be completed by 1 a.m., so it would have to start back up again around midnight in order to get in the full 90 minutes. 

UPDATE #5:  (9:55 p.m.):  Their are several folks with squeegees on the field trying to push water off... I'm not sure it's working very well.  The refs are going to walk the field in about ten minutes to try and determine if it's playable.  Though it's still raining steadily, we haven't seen lightning in a while. 

UPDATE #6 (10:03 p.m.):  The referees are testing the field with a ball.. the first kick went about eight inches.  The second went through the goal box, but it's obvious only parts of the field are playable.  The squeegeeing continues... 

UPDATE #7 (10:08 p.m.):  Both head coaches have joined the referees on the field and are wandering around, testing the pitch.  There are now at least eight folks with squeegees around the field.

UPDATE #8 (10:13 p.m.):  Just got the word from the depths of RFK that we're going to wait another 30 minutes before making a determination on whether or not to start the game.  The field is not yet ready.  Super. 

Update #9 (10:28 p.m.):  Stopped down in the locker room.  Most guys were just lounging about, telling war stories.  Quavas Kirk and Craig Thompson were kicking a ball around.  Enthralling stuff. 

UPDATE #10 (10:34 p.m.):  Photo below by Tony Quinn.  Confirmation that it was raining hard.  Very hard.  

UPDATE #11 (10:50 p.m.):  The coaches are back on the field, checking it out for a second time.  Rain is still falling pretty steadily.  The fans are cheering as the coaches and refs check the field.  Hard to tell how many are sticking around because they're not allowed in the seats.  The ref is kicking the ball around the field and it's definitely moving better than before.

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UPDATE #12  (11:00 p.m.):  The coaches, refs and game officials are at half field... fans are chanting "let them play" from afar... the squeegees are back out! Hooray for squeegees!

UPDATE #13 (11:03 p.m.): Field will be inspected in 15 minutes by match officials. Teams must be warming up by midnight. The squeegees are still out but it's continuing to raining.

UPDATE #14 (11:14 p.m.): Tom Soehn is very carefully monitoring those using the squeegees.. the refs are back out to inspect the field for a third time.  Rain is now barely a drizzle and I've been sitting in the press box with nothing to watch for almost two hours. 

UPDATE #15 (11:22 p.m.):  Game on.  Warm ups will start immediately and last twenty minutes before play resumes.  The rain is just about stopped and the field is looking good (well, as good as can be expected).  Kickoff should take place around 11:45 p.m. 11:40 p.m. 

UPDATE #16 (11:28 p.m.):  Both teams are back on the field warming up.  Nothing like two hours of sitting around to get the legs loose.  It will be interesting to see if either coach decides to make a change coming out of the break.  Hopefully, both teams will stay injury free... Fans are back in their seats, but there can't be more than a few hundred folks who stuck around.  

UPDATE #17 (11:42 p.m.):  Here we go! Game just kicked off.. photo added above of the last few remaining fans.  Delay was exactly two hours and 54 minutes!  Follow along on the dcunited.com matchtracker here

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DCU vs. Houston III: Starting lineups

07/23/2008 6:25 PM by Kyle Sheldon

Well, it might very well rain on us this evening, but this is attempt number three at trying to play this soccer game so I'm told we're going to do everything we can to get it in before the daylight of Thursdady arrives.  Let's hope the rain holds off and we get it in when we're supposed to.

With injuries aplenty, Tom Soehn has made a few changes to tonight's lineup:

Zach Wells; Pat Carroll, Bryan Namoff, Marc Burch, Gonzalo Martinez; Devon McTavish, Clyde Simms, Fred, Craig Thompson; Luciano Emilio, Jaime Moreno. 

So, Fred moves into the attacking midfield role, while Devon slides from centerback to right mid, which leads to Namoff being pushed centrally to pair up with Burch.  Martinez is back into his left back spot and Pat Carroll gets the call on the right. 

Here's hoping for a dry win. 


BTB Merchandise Offer: Antique tee

07/23/2008 11:54 AM by Kyle Sheldon

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When I used to drive around the east coast with my parents for soccer tournaments there was pretty much a guarantee that they'd find some antique store along the way.  As a kid, it was always the worst part of those trips (that and the constant losing).  Because of that, I have a built-in dislike for all things antique - until now! 

The newest Behind The Badge merchandise offer is antique, but only in name, as the design is new.  For a limited time, you can get the adidas Antique T-shirt for $15 - that's 25% off the regular $20 price tag.  That baby is 100% cotton, so you know it's good.  Adult sizes are available in S-XL and the offer is valid until August 4, 2008 or while supplies last.   

Call the D.C. United Team Store at 202-546-7023 to order (or visit at RFK Stadium's main gate) and mention the Behind The Badge offer.  This offer is not available on game days.  Why, do you ask?  Because it's just too darn busy.  Get yours now. 


Let's try this again: DCU vs. Houston

07/23/2008 8:26 AM by Kyle Sheldon

So, as of this morning, I'm told the power is back on at RFK Stadium and all systems are go for tonight's matchup with the Houston Dynamo.  After a second postponement last night - due to power outages in SE DC - I think everyone is ready to get this game rolling.  Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. ET. 

There are a handful of articles out there about last night's postponement, but all say the same thing so no links this morning.  You can see yesterday's preview post for all of your game previews. 

The big thing to know for tonight is that all tickets bearing either the June 4 or July 22 date will be accepted at the gate this evening.  

If you have any questions or issues leading up to the game, please call United's front office at 202-587-5000 and ask for a customer service representative. 

See you tonight for a game of soccer. 

UPDATE:  Though it pokes fun at the power issues recently at RFK Stadium - in addition to last night's postponement, a batch of lights went out mid-game of United vs. Guadalajara last week - I have to link to this breaking news from The Far Post, one of my favorite blogs.  


DCU vs. Houston postponed (again!)

07/22/2008 3:09 PM by Kyle Sheldon

You're not going to believe this, but tonight's match versus the Houston Dynamo has been postponed due to power outages at RFK Stadium.  The match will take place tomorrow evening at 7:30 p.m. and all tickets with the June 4 and July 22 dates will be honored. 

Here's the official dcunited.com release:

Due to power outages in southeast Washington D.C., including RFK Stadium, tonight's D.C. United match versus the Houston Dynamo has been postponed.  The game will now take place tomorrow evening - Wednesday, July 23 - at 7:30 p.m. ET.  

Tonight's game was originally scheduled to be played on June 4 before being delayed by unplayable conditions.  All tickets bearing the June 4 or July 22 date will be honored at tomorrow's match. 

For the latest details, log on to dcunited.com

I personally offered the Dynamo a deal where we would just take the three points allowing them to go back to Houston, but I don't think they're going to take it. So.. game on tomorrow (hopefully). 


MLS Game #16: DCU vs. Houston redux

07/22/2008 9:05 AM by Kyle Sheldon

Tonight, United and Houston will make-up its June 4 cancelation and resume MLS play after taking almost three weeks off for SuperLiga play.  Though United lost three in a row in the second-year tournament, the team has a six game unbeaten streak in League matches and will look to extend it this evening. 

Game time is 7:30 p.m. at RFK Stadium.  The game is not being televised locally, but can be heard on the radio in english on WFED 1050 and in Spanish on 1350 AM, 1390 AM, 1540 AM and 1600 AM.  Tickets from the June 4 game will be honored at the gate tonight.

Here's what you need to read to get prepared for tonight:

And we'll take predictions in the comments - predict the correct score and you might win two tickets to a future DCU game.  


Access United: Houston SuperLiga recap

07/22/2008 9:01 AM by Kyle Sheldon

As the team preps to face the Dynamo tonight - for the second time in four days - here's a look back at Saturday's 3-1 loss to Houston. More Access United on the YouTubes


Marc Burch takes to the air

07/21/2008 2:01 PM by Doug Hicks

Two games in four days won't stop Marc Burch from checking in with his favorite morning radio show.  Tomorrow, our friends JP, EB, Cakes and Lurch from the Sports Junkies will talk to Burchy on their radio program.  Tune in on the radio (WJFK 106.7 FM) or listen live at wjfk.com.  The interview should start around 8:45 a.m.

Burch never shies away from speaking his mind, so if you want to ask a question of United's #4 feel free to drop it in the comments below and we'll pass it along to the Junkies tomorrow morning.  


SuperLiga game #3: Houston 3 - DCU 1

07/19/2008 10:36 PM by Kyle Sheldon

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Let's move on, shall we?  SuperLiga is over and now the team must turn their focus back to MLS play with a quick three-day turnaround, as Houston stick around for the June 4 make-up game.  Following Tuesday's match at RFK, United will enjoy a much-needed break without a game until Saturday, August 2 (Kansas City Wizards @ RFK Stadium, 7:30 p.m. ET).

A special congratulations to Mike Zaher who made his first team debut tonight, coming on for Bryan Namoff in the 76th minte. 

We'll be back with a few post-game quotes, but I don't think any of us want to dwell on this game, nor this tournament.  I know I don't. 

UPDATE:  A few post-game quotes below and some photos added to the Video & Pics page
 
D.C. UNITED DEFENDER MARC BURCH
On the loss
We just have to get back to the league and try to start winning again. It’s tough to take three losses but we’ll learn, we’ll move on. We’re in a good place in the league right now and if we beat them on Tuesday it’s a more important game.
 
On the game
It’s just personal responsibility, if you got a man going to score. The last goal was an unlucky touch and very dumb but I thought we played good soccer and for most of the game I thought we played good defense. There were just a couple of breakdowns.
 
On bouncing back
It’s a new generation tomorrow. [We have to] make sure we get our legs back. Some people are going to be playing. We’ll give Jaime [Moreno] some rest and Luciano [Emilio] some rest. I think we’ll be good for Tuesday.
 
D.C. UNITED DEFENDER BRYAN NAMOFF
On being tired
It’s one of those middle-of-the-season lulls, so to speak. It’s just difficult. This was a tough game. Motivationally, we’re so far down and it [would be] almost a miracle to come back. Just with the heat and humidity, the number of games we’ve had this last month – it takes its toll on a player. We’ve got one more to go look for on Tuesday and then we’ll have a little bit of a break which I think will be really needed to try to come back.
 
On the team’s performance
You can see a lag, you can definitely see some tired legs and you get a sense we need to regroup. I think this is definitely a time when the bench is going to need to give us some added depth in the latter half of the season.
 
HOUSTON DYNAMO HEAD COACH DOMINIC KINNEAR
On the game
We were trying to win. From the very first minute we knew that D.C. had a difficult task. The score in the first half complicated it even more. So we just tried to get an early goal that would put us in a better position and would make it harder for them. Upon that, why leave up four substitutions when we can substitute liberally. So, we gave the guys some rest, because of the importance of Tuesday’s game against the same opponent. I am pleased we won.
 
On Brad Davis
Brad Davis served a great ball. So if you have timing, service and aggression, you will create danger; and the key is that Davis has very good service.
 
On the fatigue of his team
Some guys were exhausted, three games in a week is hard. Besides, we had to travel too. And of course, Tuesday’s game against Chivas was physically and mentally draining. So we tried some players today such as Bobby Boswell, Craig Waibel, Eddie Robinson and Ricardo Clark. We will do our best to give the guys some rest before this coming up game against D.C. United on Tuesday. 
 
On the line-up for Tuesday’s game
It looks easier if we consider that we can be confident about those guys in the bunch. We have a very complete team, it’s a luxury, so we can play with the substitutions. To have those guys available, Dwayne De Rosario, Brian [Ching] and Eddie [Robinson], outside the field, and ready to play, makes you a better team. 

HOUSTON DYNAMO DEFENDER BOBBY BOSWELL
On the game
[We’re] just happy to get the win. We wanted to come in and secure a spot in the next round. We knew getting a win would take care of that. We were upset with the Chivas game. I thought we outplayed them. To lose a home game like that with the whole crowd that was out, it’s always upsetting so coming here and getting a win is good. There were some numbers down on both sides but it didn’t matter. We took care of business.
 
On scoring
You want to score obviously. As a defender you don’t get many chances and when you score, it doesn’t hurt to score against a team you got traded from but for me getting the win was a lot bigger deal than anything else.
 
On Tuesday’s game
Tuesday is a different game. It’s a league game, it’s not the same competition. It’s a whole different level. Glad that we got the game [tonight] and moved on to the next round in this tournament but the league game on Tuesday means something different. We have to hopefully keep this run going.
 

DCU vs. Houston: Starting lineups

07/19/2008 6:54 PM by Kyle Sheldon

Kickoff is just around the corner and Tom Soehn has named his starting lineup.  With a few tired players after a bunch of games during the last month, the coaching staff has decided to rest a few key players.  Here's the eleven that will take the field to start against Houston:

Zach Wells; Bryan Namoff, Pat Carroll, Devon McTavish, Marc Burch; Craig Thompson, Clyde Simms, Fred, Ryan Cordeiro; Luciano Emilio, Francis Doe. 

Subs: James Thorpe, Quavas Kirk, Rod Dyachenko, Mike Zaher, Dane Murphy,  Jaime Moreno, Gonzalo Martinez. 


SuperLiga game #3: DCU vs. Houston

07/19/2008 8:35 AM by Kyle Sheldon

Well, it will be interesting to see what Tom Soehn and the coaching staff decides to do tonight.  Needing a three goal win over Houston and a Chivas win over Atlante (they kick off at 10 p.m. ET) to advance, it's an obvious long shot.  The coaches may decide it's worth it to go for it or may decide it's such a small chance to advance that it makes sense to rest guys for MLS and Open Cup play.  I'm curious to see which route they go.  Keep in mind, that after tonight's match D.C. and Houston have to face each other in a League match on Tuesday at RFK. 

Tonight's game kicks at 8 p.m. ET and can be seen nationally on Telefutura and locally on Comcast SportsNet.  If radio is your thing, tune in to WFED 1050 AM for Tony Limarzi's call (be sure to also check out the pre and post-game shows!). 

As we wait for the game, be sure to read all of the latest news and views out there:

As per usual, we'll take predictions in the comments.  If you guess the correct score, you'll have a chance to be randomly selected to win two tickets to an upcoming United game of your choice.  We reserve the right to do whatever the heck we want with all contest on BehindTheBadge.com, by the way. 


D.C. United Academy player honored

07/18/2008 8:56 AM by Kyle Sheldon

We received word early this morning that D.C. United Academy player Paul Torres has been named to the U-15/16 Academy Starting XI for his play in the U.S. Soccer Development Academy.  The midfielder helped United to a 16-8-6 record and second place finish in the Mid-Atlantic Conference at the U-16 level. 

The Starting XI were voted upon by the Development Academy coaches and National Team scouts. The full team follows:

U-15/16 Academy Starting XI
GK: Rafael Diaz – PDA
D: Zarek Valentin – IMG Soccer Academy
D: Jossimar Sanchez – PDA
D: Ryan Metts – CASL
D: Reginald Phelps – Schulz Academy
M: Johnathan Aguirre – PDA
M: Harrison Petts – Carmel United
M: Eduardo Alvarez – Greensboro
M: Paul Torres – D.C. United
F: Soony Saad – Vardar
F: Austin Oldham – Carmel United

Congrats, Paul! 


Gallardo, Peralta to have surgery

07/17/2008 2:21 PM by Kyle Sheldon

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After being evaluated today in Germany, it has been decided that both Marcelo Gallardo and Gonzalo Peralta will need surgery for sports hernias.  Gallardo will have bilateral sports hernia surgery, which will require him to go under the knife both tomorrow and Saturday, while Peralta only needs work done on the left side which will be completed tomorrow. 

Gallardo has not played since United's June 29 win over the Galaxy, while Peralta has been out since the team's July 8 win over Chicago. 

All surgeries will be performed by Dr. Ulrike Muschaweck in Munich, Germany.  In the past, she has performed the same surgery on Bryan Namoff and former United players Justin Moose and Christian Gomez. 

Recovery for this particular surgery generally takes 2-3 weeks. 

UPDATE:  Apparently, a former United forward - who shall remain nameless - checks BehindTheBadge.com periodically.  He just informed me that a number of other former United players have had the same surgery by Dr. Muschaweck including Alecko Eskandarian, Ryan Nelsen and former skipper Peter Nowak.  He also tells me that there is a picture of Nowak on the office wall there that is, according to him, "the FUNNIEST pic - he has curls!"  Thanks for reading.  


Dave Johnson on Redskins, Fenty and United

07/17/2008 1:07 PM by Kyle Sheldon

Be sure to keep an eye on wtop.com for Dave Johnson's regular column 'Dave's Take.'  His most recent piece is especially a good read.  He discussed Mayor Fenty's recent comments about trying to get the Redskins back in D.C. and how it is "a slap in the face" to D.C. United. Give it a read here

Dave Johnson is the voice of D.C. United on Comcast SportsNet and has been calling United game since the team's first season.  He is easily one of the best play-by-play men in U.S. soccer.  He can also often be heard on Fox Soccer Channel when not calling United games. Oh, by the way, he's also the radio play-by-play guy for the Wizards and the Sports Director for WTOP.  Safe to say, he keeps pretty busy. 


Carvallo released

07/17/2008 11:07 AM by Kyle Sheldon

We'll officially announce shortly that we've released goalkeeper Jose Carvallo.  The Peruvian joined United on January 28 of this year, but never really fought his way into the first team.  He made a lone first team appearance on April 12 when the team lost to Real Salt Lake 4-0.  He also made six reserve team appearances (five starts), putting together a 2-2-1 record and 1.22 goals-against-average. 


Access United: Atlante recap

07/17/2008 9:25 AM by Kyle Sheldon

Not that anyone really wants to relive this game, but here's the newest Access United with post-game video from the sidelines and interviews with Tom Soehn, Zach Wells, Luciano Emilio and Jaime Moreno.  Keep in mind that when this was shot, most of the players thought it unlikely that the team could advance into the semis with an 0-2 record.  We now know it's possible, though a bit of a long shot, needing a three goal win over Houston and a Chivas win over Atlante.


United acquires Joe Vide

07/16/2008 4:59 PM by Cris Cruz

We've just announce the club has acquired midfielder Joe Vide. 24-year old Vide was acquired in today's waiver draft after the San Jose Earthquakes waived him on July 14. He was drafted out of the University of Virginia by the MetroStars in 2006. For the official news go to www.dcunited.com.

Vide will be available for selection in next Tuesday's match against the Houston Dynamo. Tickets for that game are available here.


SuperLiga game #2: Atlante 3 - DCU 2

07/15/2008 10:52 PM by Kyle Sheldon

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What to say about that match?  Obviously, not the team's best performance.  Tommy Soehn had some strong words in his post-game press conference, which I'll post shortly.  The team is all but eliminated, depending on tonight's result in Houston.  You can read Charlie Boehms dcunited.com account of the game right here

The team will take tomorrow off and reconvene on Thursday for training.  Saturday's game against Houston is set for 8 p.m.  The Dynamo will stay in D.C. following the match as the squads will square off again three days later in the make-up game following the June 4 cancelation

I've added a few photos to the Video & Pics page

UPDATE: Chivas' 1-0 win over Houston means United is still in the hunt to advance to the knockout stage, though not by much.  Here's how it would have to break down:

  • Chivas would have to beat Atlante on Saturday and United would need to top Houston; 
  • Chivas would win the group with nine points, while each of the other three teams would all have three points each; 
  • The first tie-breaker is head-to-head results, but because each team would have beaten one of the others (Houston over Atlante, Atlante over United, United over Houston)  it would go to the second tie-breaker which is goal differential; 
  • Following tonight's matches, Houston's goal differential is +3, United's is -2 and Atlante's is -3.  
  • All that considered, United would need to beat Houston by three goals in order to go through.  
  • Confused yet?

Here are the post-game quotes.. 

D.C. United Head Coach Tom Soehn
On tonight’s game
Our performance, particularly in the first half, was atrocious; we had no commitment, no passion, and we played flat. It is unacceptable, especially in a tournament like this. Every time a player wears the D.C. United uniform, they should be proud. This team is well known for its pride, and that’s something we did not show today. We didn’t appear in the first half. Thus, we couldn’t contain any team. We tried in the second half, but that was too late. We cannot do that in this competition. Whether you are tired or not, you have to put in an effort. And that sweat wasn’t out there today. 
 
D.C. United Midfielder Fred [via translation]
On the game
[We’re] very disappointed because we worked hard all week and we lost two in a row. Now we really want to get back to MLS play and get some more wins there.  We just played really badly, that’s why they won. We didn’t play our game.
 
D.C. United forward Luciano Emilio
I think between us we haven’t fixed the defensive problem we have. We can’t win because we give up goals in all our games. We always score but never even it up. We have to fix that now. The time to fix it already passed. We still haven’t gotten a shutout and that complicates things because we always have to come from behind. But we’re all responsible; we have a defensive, offensive and midfield problem. The whole team is responsible.
 
On the tournament
SuperLiga is an interesting tournament, where the best teams from Mexico and the US play. You want to at least make it to the final.
 
D.C. United defender Devon McTavish
On the game
We did a good job getting that first goal back and then we just let off the gas and then they got two against us. It’s tough to come back from two goals down.  We just weren’t that good together. I think we had an off night together and lost a lot of guys back there. I think we just weren’t on the same page at the time.
 
Atlante Head Coach José Cruz [via translation]
On D.C. United’s attacking strategy
On the alignment sheet, when I got it, there were four forwards. To me, it seemed that they were underestimating us after our last lost. Whenever there is a wounded team, as we were, you have to be careful because they need to win. So I think they were a little overconfident.
 
On the Houston game compared to tonight
We just committed too many errors for us to have a chance to win the Houston game last Saturday. They were also able to capitalize our opportunities.
 
On the team’s changes from Houston’s game to D.C. United’s game
Last game against Houston I started it with a defensive line of four, three midfielders and an upside triangle for the three forwards, Gabriel Pereyra, Giancarlo and Rey. The team lost all control of the sides, lost possession – all we have been practicing daily is the basics. Therefore, we came back to our usual strategy with five defenders, three midfielders and three forwards.
 
On Atlante and the Mexican League
We are a very limited team in terms of players. I would have loved to bring with me, David Torredo; a very important strategic key. However, it was impossible to do this on time. Thus, we must make an enormous effort to affront the Mexican League and the CONCACAF Cup.
 
On the Mexican national coach and his presence in tonight’s game
At yesterday’s practice, we were honored with the national coach’s presence. I think he will consider players such as Christian Bermudez, Alan Zamora, José Guerrero y Fernando Navarro for future competitions. The national coach is a very dedicated man, and he will enrich Mexican soccer.
 
Atlante midfielder Gabriel Pereyra [via translation]
On coming back after the 4-0 loss at Houston
We’re the Mexican champions form the tournament before last. We have merits but I think we didn’t play well in Houston. But now we showed improvement and more concentration and we got the result.
 
On D.C. United
It’s a team that plays very well. Out of all the US teams we’ve faced, it’s the one I like the best, the one that plays the best and thankfully we were able to beat them. We finished the chances we got.
 

Access United: Golf Tournament recap

07/15/2008 7:14 PM by Kyle Sheldon

Hilarity ensues when United players pick up golf clubs.  Though the piece below is kind of funny, you should really think about joining us next year.  It's a fantastic even and really one of the best opportunities to get up close and personal with United's players.  Plus, it raises money for the club's non-profit arm - $55,000 this year!  

Bryan Namoff is not the best golfer on the team.  Gosh, he's nice, though. 


DCU vs. Atlante: Starting lineups

07/15/2008 7:00 PM by Kyle Sheldon

The big addition to today's 18-man roster is the inclusion of Santino Quaranta to the substitute's bench.  Tino hasn't played since the team's 4-1 win over the Galaxy on June 29, when he left the game after just 27 minutes with a hamstring strain. 

Here's tonight's starting lineup:

Zach Wells; Bryan Namoff, Devon McTavish, Marc Burch, Gonzalo Martinez; Craig Thompson, Clyde Simms, Jaime Moreno, Fred; Luciano Emilio, Francis Doe.

Subs: James Thorpe, Mike Zaher, Pat Carroll, Santino Quaranta, Ryan Cordeiro, Rod Dyachenko, Quavas Kirk. 

The starting team is the exact same group that started the second half against Chivas on Saturday and created several good scoring opportunities.  Here's hoping they do the same tonight and put a few in the back of the net. 


SuperLiga game #2: DCU vs. Atlante

07/15/2008 9:00 AM by Kyle Sheldon

United will look to rebound from its 2-1 loss to Chivas de Guadalajara on Saturday when it faces Atlante FC this evening at RFK Stadium in its second SuperLiga Group A match (8 p.m. ET).  The game will be broadcast live on TeleFutura and can also be heard on the radio in english (1050 AM) and spanish (1540 AM).  Be sure to tune in to 1050 AM after the match for the post-game radio show, hosted by Alex Caudana and Tony Limarzi.  They'll have interviews with United players immediately following the game.

A couple of injury updates since Saturday - Gonzalo Peralta is now listed as out (groin strain), while Quavas Kirk (hamstring strain) is available for selection.  

Atlante is coming off a 4-0 loss to the Houston Dynamo on Saturday, so they're likely to come out firing.  As you get ready for tonight's match there's a whole bunch of stuff you should be reading:

UPDATE:  I forgot to ask for predictions - anyone got one?  I'll randomly select from the folks who correctly guess the score and provide that individual with two free tickets to an upcoming game of their choice. 


Access United: Chivas de Guadalajara recap

07/14/2008 5:39 PM by Kyle Sheldon

... with comments from Devon McTavish, Luciano Emilio, Fred, Tom Soehn and more.  


Rookie Report: Capitol flashback

07/14/2008 3:54 PM by Dane Murphy

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Once upon a time a scrappy thirteen year-old with big dreams came to the city of big ideas for "The Cherry Blossom Festival Soccer Tournament.” He was supposed to get to play soccer on The National Mall with a better-than-average club team. Let it be known that this kid was a bit excited at his prospects. He was previously confined to smaller tournaments in Connecticut and New York but was now able to realize a dream of his by playing in the Capitol. The excitement, however, was short lived.

Mother Nature would have her say as the tournament could have been renamed "The Frozen Rain Festival." The team would end up playing one game at a  local elementary soccer field in Maryland. But, as is often the case in the District, someone who knew someone who knew someone, got this kid and his teammates the opportunity to watch a D.C. United training session.  Afterwards they all got to meet the team – Eddie Pope, Marco Echeverry, John Harkes, Jamie Moreno and others. They got autographs and got to shake hands with some of the club’s best-ever players. The cancellation of the tournament turned out to be a blessing in disguise as the dream of playing in the Capitol was no longer big enough for the boy. The new dream was to play for the Capitol, to play for D.C. United.

Now almost 10 years later that same kid is part of D.C. United. I came up with the idea for this post as I watched the 4th of July fireworks on The National Mall where a young kid once dreamed. Words cannot begin to describe the enormity of the thrill and the sense of pride in being a part of this incredible tradition and this incredible town. Through perseverance and hard work dreams do become reality.

As an update on my current status – I have been named to the team in each of the last three games, including a 2-1 loss to Guadalajara de Chivas this past weekend. That was our first loss in nine games in all competitions and we’ll look to rebound by advancing in the SuperLiga group stage, starting with a game against Atlante tomorrow.

Remember D.C. fans, if you ain’t first, you’re last. Vamos Vamos Vamos, Dale Dale Dale United! 


Video: Comcast SportsNet post-game

07/14/2008 10:26 AM by Kyle Sheldon

Below is some post-game video from Comcast SportsNet, following United's 2-1 loss to CD Guadalajara. 


SuperLiga game #1: Chivas 2 - DCU 1

07/12/2008 11:25 PM by Kyle Sheldon

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It was a game of two halves, wasn't it?  That, or a game of two hit posts, a game delay and a missed penalty.  

United fell 2-1 to Chivas de Guadalajara tonight at RFK Stadium in its first game in Group A SuperLiga play.  Chivas got goals from Omar Arellano (24th minute) and Gonzalo Pineda (72nd minute), while United's lone tally came from Luciano Emilio's foot (76th minute).  Both Emilio and Devon McTavish smashed the woodwork during the game and Jaime Moreno missed a penalty kick in the 78th minute - his first miss, as far as I can tell, since 2004 (in MLS play, at the very least). 

The team has a very short turnaround and will begin preparations for Atlante immediately, as they will visit RFK Stadium on Tuesday evening (8 p.m. ET). 

UPDATE: A ton of post-game quotes follow... 

D.C. United Head Coach Tom Soehn
On how Chivas responded after the 19 minute stoppage in play
They responded really well. The momentum had really changed. It was very disappointing when the lights went out because it gave them a chance to recuperate. Because I told the guys that after the second half they were going to lose their legs a little bit and I thought they didn’t. Our play got better. We made some adjustments late in the first half. Closed the middle up a little bit but we started to take it to them and unfortunately when the lights went out they recuperated a little bit.
 
On moving Devon McTavish into midfield
Yeah we moved Clyde [Simms] to the middle a little bit and the extra guy there was really hurting us. When Devon moved up it clogged things up a little bit.
 
On the beginning of the game
Yeah they [Chivas] put a lot into it. We seemed to lose a guy in the middle and gave them possession more than I’d like. I thought when we adjusted it actually closed the door a little bit on that and we were able to keep the ball. But against good teams if we create opportunities we have to finish them. It’s unfortunate; we were a little unlucky with the post. It’s not too often a keeper is able to stop Jaime [Moreno]’s PK so the loss is disappointing but we can’t hang our heads, we have to come out now and get a couple of results to make sure we advance.
 
On D.C.’s injuries
We pretty much have 18 guys. Not have many guys to choose from.
 
On Jaime Moreno’s missed penalty
With all the penalties he has taken in his career, sooner or later he’s going to miss one. I like his percentages though.
 
On the foul that led to the game-winning free kick
The foul I thought was a soft foul. When you watch the way the flow of the game was going, [the referee] wasn’t calling many of those soft ones. You don’t want many of those soft ones called, even if it’s for you. So it’s disappointing. He had a good shot too. But we had our chances and against a good team you have to finish your chances.
 
D.C. United goalkeeper Zach Wells
On whether or not he got a hand to the second goal
Just a tiny bit but not enough to redirect it enough. It was pretty close to the crossbar it dipped just below at the last second.
 
On how the team responded after the first half
I think our whole second half was pretty good. I think we dictated a little bit more. The power outage kind of slowed our momentum a little bit. The second goal – I’m not certain about the foul being called to be honest but that’s the way soccer goes sometimes. You have to make the best out of what you’re given. I thought Luciano [Emilio] had a great goal. We had a chance to tie it but they’re keeper made some great saves so you have to tip your hat to that. But most people would agree we had a lot better second half. We responded pretty well to the second goal. Coming out of halftime we had a little bit more fire, more energy.
 
On Chivas’ first goal and its offense
On the first [goal] had I had a couple of guys coming off the back four and when they’re able to play balls in uncontested that presents a little bit of a problem because we had four guys in the back, they had five in the midfield and we weren’t quick enough to adjust to their formation and to stay with their runners. But they’re a very good team. You saw in the first half they were much sharper but combined with our ability to control the ball in the second half I think that was the difference.
 
D.C. United forward Jaime Moreno
On his missed penalty
He came away from me in the end, in the last second. I had picked my spot, I didn’t change it. He did well waiting for me. I picked that spot and like I said he made a great save.
 
On being down 0-2
We did well. I had a chance to make it 2-2. And before that Devon [McTavish] had a chance too and [we] hit the post twice so it was one of those games. On the positive side we worked really hard, we never gave up. Now we have to rest, go to practice and I think Tuesday’s a very important game for us.
 
D.C. United Midfielder Fred
On the game
We weren’t very lucky tonight because we had a lot of chances to score and didn’t finish. They, however, found two opportunities and finished.
 
On the missed penalty
I have a lot of confidence in Jaime [Moreno] because since I’ve been here I’ve never seen him miss a penalty kick. We always trust he’ll score but today he was unlucky the goalkeeper saved it.
 
D.C. United forward Luciano Emilio
On the game
They came out well and caught us off guard, but the important thing is that we reacted. We had a chance to tie and even to win but couldn’t do it. Now we have to get ready for Tuesday because if we win we’ll be close to advancing.
 
On the lack of goals
I don’t think it’s a problem for us. Today we wasted many chances. But we always score goals, today we just lost concentration and went down 0-2 and it’s hard to come back from that.
 
On the team’s play
I think we’re alright. Today we let the draw slip but if Jaime Moreno’s penalty kick had gone in it might have raised our confidence and gotten the win. So we can’t analyze the play of the team based on this result because we did well.
 
CD Guadalajara Head Coach Efrain Flroes [via translation]
On the team’s response after the delay
Probably when the lights went off, my team recovered a little bit because it’s our first game playing under this intensity. Just two weeks ago I had the players coming from the national team, and it’s a hard game. We beat a real strong D.C. United team.
 
On the importance of Ramon Morales
He is very important to us, because the rest of the team has the speed and Morales the talent. He has the ability to slow down the game, and change the rhythm of the game.
 
On the game
Firstly, it was a very intense game. The first half, we had excellent control of the ball, good movement off it, played in depth, and we could have scored one more goal. The second half, we met a very different D.C. They had more players attacking, which generated a few chances. We are lucky to have won this game against an excellent team. They have great quality players and it is well managed. This is our very first game to have played under this intensity. So, congratulations to my players for it.
 
On the rivalry between nations
We try to win every game, regardless of where we play. Despite us playing an American team, the most important thing always is that the rivalry stays in the field, and outside of it we are friends.
 
On the current team
The organization has a very clear philosophy. Since they are nine years old to the first team, all players know the way they have to play the game. The institution provides a lot of money to raise and teach our children. Therefore, when one player leave the first team, he  gives an opportunity to another player. Since the methodology is the same for every division, they adapt fairly easy.
 
CD Guadalajara midfielder Gonzalo Pineda [via translation]
On D.C. United’s play
It’s a team that has always had important people up front, fast players: Moreno and Emilio are players that can get behind you. So the truth is we’re very happy because we beat a great team.
 
On the flow of the game
We did what we had to do. In the first half we pushed forward a lot more, we had more looks at the goal. In the second half, we let them get too far into our defense. Maybe if we had more possession during the second half we would have gotten more scoring chances. 
 
CD Guadalajara defender Hector Reynoso [via translation]
On the importance of SuperLiga
It’s very important because of the level of play found in these tournaments. We face big teams we respect a lot like D.C. United, Houston and Atlante. More than just being a pre-season tournament, we’re here to leave a mark.
 
On the level of play in MLS
It’s not an easy league like it’s often thought. Their level has gone up a lot, their players fight the whole 90 minutes, they’re very organized and fast. Truthfully, they make us play at our maximum.
 

MatchTracker down - updates here

07/12/2008 9:42 PM by Kyle Sheldon

Apologies, but for some reason our MatchTracker isn't working this evening.  If there are a few of you looking to follow the game, I'll give periodic updates here. 

24th minute: Chivas goal by Omar Arellano (assist Ramon Morales). 1-0 Chivas. 

56th minute: McTavish gets free down the middle of the goal box, but his shot slams off the post and out of danger.

58th minute: A few of the lights in RFK have gone out, causing a 19 minute delay on the pitch. 

72nd minute: Chivas goal by Gonzalo Pineda from a freekick. 2-0 Chivas. 

76th minute: GOAL by Luciano Emilio (assist to Bryan Namoff). 2-1 Chivas. 

77th minute:  Jaime Moreno penalty kick saved by Luis Michael. Suck. 

Final 2-1 Chivas. 


DCU vs. Chivas: Starting lineups

07/12/2008 6:04 PM by Kyle Sheldon

With a host of injuries, Coach Tom Soehn has had to make a few adjustments to his usual starting lineup.  The team will be sticking to the 4-4-2 it has recently been running out - here's how they'll start this evening:

Zach Wells; Bryan Namoff, Devon McTavish, Marc Burch, Gonzalo Martinez; Craig Thompson, Clyde Simms, Rod Dyachenko, Fred; Luciano Emilio, Jaime Moreno

Subs: James  Thorpe, Pat Carroll, Mike Zaher, Ryan Cordeiro, Quavas Kirk, Dane Murphy, Francis Doe.


SuperLiga game #1: DCU vs. CD Guadalajara

07/12/2008 1:04 PM by Kyle Sheldon

Today, United turns its focus from League and U.S. Open Cup play to focus on another tournament (it's fourth of five competitions in 2008) now in its second year - SuperLiga.  The competition pits the best teams from Mexico against the best from MLS with eight total teams competing.  United's first match comes against CD Guadalajara - a team D.C. got to know very well last year, as they played a total of four times in two competitions (CONCACAF Champions' Cup and Copa Sudamericana).  Each time, Chivas ousted the Black-and-Red, but just barely... 

In preparation for tonight's match, here's what you should be reading:

  • Zach Berman writes about the Chang-Vergara bet and United having yet another shot at Chivas in the Washington Post (though, it should be noted that the bet is only for a friendly haircut, not a full buzz). 
  • John Haydon writes in the Washington Times about the team turning its focus to SuperLiga and the rivalry with Chivas
  • Beau Dure writes about the second year of SuperLiga in USA Today. 
  • Charlie Boehm says the teams are set for a historic battle at dcunited.com. 
  • The Capital Weather Gang has your forecast for tonight right here (no rain!)

Finally, a big walk-up is expected so be sure to arrive early!  I'll be back with starting lineups about an hour from kickoff (which is at 8 p.m. ET). 


Video: Chang & Vergara make another bet

07/11/2008 5:15 PM by Kyle Sheldon

You may remember that last year Will Chang (United's Co-Managing Partner) and Jorge Vergara (Chivas de Guadalajara's owner) made a friendly wager prior to the second leg of the Copa Sudamericana series between the Black-and-Red and Chivas.  The bet was that whichever owner's team lost would have to have their hair cut immediately following the game.  No shaved head or buzz cut, but apparently a haircut by someone else's barber was enough to instill fear...

Following is a never-before-seen video of last year's game - which United lost 1-0 - and the ensuing bet payoff. 

As you heard in the video, Vergara said they'd make the same bet the next time the two teams faced each other.  I'm not sure either of them was expecting it to be so soon.  But, as it is, they'll face each other tomorrow and the losing team's owner will have their hair cut in the media room following the game.

And, yes, Dan Stratford will be on the scene with his clippers.   


Luciano's lyrics

07/11/2008 1:49 PM by Kyle Sheldon

You may recall Luciano Emilio singing James Blunt last year in the locker room... 

Hilarious, right?  And, just recently he said in Sports Illustrated that it was his favorite song to sing Karaoke to (though I'm not convinced he knows what Karaoke is).  Every so often, he'll break out 'You're Beautiful' in the locker room, but today he put a little twist on the lyrics. Today's version went like this:

You're beautiful
I like you Burch
You are my friend
We play together
Your crosses are good
 
A second version went like this:
 
My wife is beautiful
My daughter is great 
I am so happy
 
Perhaps he has a future as a songwriter? 
 

Access United: Chicago Fire Open Cup recap

07/11/2008 9:21 AM by Kyle Sheldon

United earned an impressive 2-1 come-from-behind overtime victory over the Chicago Fire last Tuesday at the Maryland SoccerPlex. If you weren't one of the 4,118 people there, this is the place for highlights and post-game comments.  More Access United on our YouTube page


Bryan Namoff on World Soccer Daily on Friday

07/10/2008 6:00 PM by Kyle Sheldon

As a few folks have noted in the comments section, our third-longest tenured player will be on the World Soccer Daily radio show on Friday at 1 p.m. ET.  He'll talk about all things DCU, SuperLiga, MLS and more.  You can ask a question of Bryan by emailing the hosts right here or by calling 866-925-8255 during the show tomorrow. 

Alternatively, we'll take questions in the comments section below (until noon ET!) and then send them in.  We'll then randomly choose a winner from those who leave questions to win a 2008 media guide autographed by B. Namoff himself! 

You can hear the interview tomorrow by visiting worldsoccerdaily.com


DCU Youth fall in PKs

07/10/2008 3:31 PM by Cris Cruz

We don't have all the info yet but we do know D.C. United's Under 17 team lost to Real Salt Lake this morning in the final of the U17 Cup. United fell in a penalty kick shootout after regulation ended in a 1-1 draw. More info to come...

UPDATE: The final against RSL was hard-fought and after 120 minutes it was still tied at 1-1 with Michael Burgos having scored United's lone goal. In penalty kicks, Salt Lake missed one but their keeper then saved two to give them the win.

Head Coach Judah Cooks said: My favorite team to watch came up a little short vs. a very good Salt Lake team. Shootouts are a crapshoot. But what a ride it was! I'm very proud of our team for their performance and effort.


DCU Academy in U17 SUM Cup finals!

07/09/2008 4:20 PM by Cris Cruz

The D.C. United Academy team advanced today to the MLS Under 17 Cup final by defeating Chivas USA 3-0. Michael Burgos proved to be the driving force for United, as he scored two goals and provided an assist on Chris Hegngi's tally.

D.C. will now attempt to win their second consecutive championship when they face Real Salt Lake tomorrow in the final. RSL advanced after defeating Toronto FC 2-0 in the other semifinal.

Head Coach Judah Cooks said: "We were very lucky to get out of the first half against a very good Chivas team. Very good defending led by captain Ethan White. Second half subs were very prepared and extremely focused adn were able to change the game. Michael Burgos and Micahel Funes changed the game for us coming off the bench in the second half."


Photo of the Day: Game-winner!

07/09/2008 10:06 AM by Kyle Sheldon

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 Not this year, Chicago. (Photo by Chris Leon)


U.S. Open Cup quarterfinals: DCU 2 - CHI 1 (OT)

07/08/2008 10:49 PM by Kyle Sheldon

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Goals from Francis Doe in the 77th and Bryan Namoff in the 99th completed a United come-from-behind 2-1 win over the visiting Chicago Fire.  See the final stats here.  

United advances to the semi-final around and will face the New England Revolution - who defeated Crystal Palace Baltimore on penalty kicks - on August 12 at RFK Stadium (7:30 p.m. ET).  The winner of that game will advance to the final, which is set for August 24. 

Were you at the SoccerPlex? What did you think of the game tonight? Did you see the skirmish involving Blanco and others?

UPDATE:  A few photos added to the Video & Pics page and now post-game quotes from both teams below.. 

UPDATE #2:  Official Unofficial Behind the Badge photographer Chris Leon got some really cool photos from last night's game.  See them here.  

D.C. United Defender Bryan Namoff
On scoring the game-winning goal
Tom Soehn said to me after the game that I’ve scored one goal and that I’m having a banner year [laughs].
 
On the win
I don’t think there was any doubt, even when we were down 1-0. I think we stuck to our plan. We were a little sluggish coming out in the first half, maybe it was due to having a couple of days off. We started to find a rhythm in the second half and started getting a lot tighter around marks. I would just give credit to a couple of good plays toward the end of the game. We were lucky to get a 1-1 tie and especially lucky to eventually get the game winner.
 
On his game-winning goal
You have to give credit to Jaime Moreno. He hit the perfect ball to me so if I didn’t score I think he’d be pretty upset. I made a run and beat the defender and went to the near post and he put it right on my head, all I had to do was make good contact.
 
On the team’s play in the first half
I think we were a little bit spread out from our defense to our midfield to our forwards and normally we like to keep that within 35 yards and I think there was a tendency for the back line to be a little bit up too high from time to time. I think defensively, for them, their defenders were giving up a lot of time and space and that’s why they were able to pick up their heads and look and find space.
 
On resting for the next game
Any time you have to play 120 minutes in this type of heat I think is draining. But luckily it’s only Tuesday so we have enough days to rest, recover and get everybody feeling right. We have to start working on a new perspective on a different team, a team that has proven to get the better of us in previous years.
 
D.C. United Forward Jaime Moreno
On coming into the game
I just try to give a little bit of light to the whole team. We reacted at the right moment and it was just one of those games where it could go either way. We fought tonight very hard and we’re very pleased with the result. Now we can rest and wait for Saturday’s game.
 
On knocking Chicago out
I guess for the record it’s a great thing but for us every game is different and every game so far we’ve been improving a lot so that was our goal from the start of the preseason, to be like this. A lot of the guys today had the opportunity to play and did pretty well.
 
D.C. United Head Coach Tom Soehn
On the win
Tonight was a hot night and I had to push our guys. We had some time off and I could tell we were a bit rusty but to their credit they fought and scrapped until the very end. We added a couple of guys that I thought impacted the game when they came in and that was the difference of the game.
 
On Jaime Moreno’s influence
He has so much experience in holding the ball and the flow got a lot better. The team changed dramatically when he came in, even tough he wasn’t in for long.
 
D.C. United Defender Marc Burch
On the incident with Cuauhtemoc Blanco
Blanco came over and swung as hard as he could and hit Clyde [Simms] in the stomach. You know I’m sick of that, throwing elbows at [Gonzalo] Peralta. I bumped shoulders with him and he threw an elbow at me and kicked me so I was just sick of him. He gets away with a lot of stuff because he’s Blanco and he’s from Mexico and he’s a big name. but he can’t do that stuff to any of my teammates.
 
On the second half
We started looking good in the second half. Jaime [Moreno]’s a big spark. We started holding on to the ball and creating more chances. When we started creating more chances I knew we were going to get one, if not in the second half, in overtime.
 
On the difference in play
We weren’t really tight. We were letting them play balls over the top and up top we didn’t give a lot of pressure and I think in the second half it got a lot better and they stopped getting in behind us.
 
On Chicago’s goal
I couldn’t really tell. I heard Devon [McTavish] say away and Pat [Carroll] just kind of slipped.
 
On Jaime Moreno
I think Jaime’s the best player. He’s awesome. When he came in and started holding the ball and playing great balls and started working hard. When he comes in he changes games.
 
On coming from behind
Being a goal down we knew we needed to start cleaning up how we were playing. We still made a few mistakes in the second half but I think it got a lot better. With Jaime [Moreno] in there it always gets better.
 
On the Blanco incident
He was out there smacking people, kicking people after they were down. He came up and swung as hard as he could and tried to hit the ball and hit Clyde [Simms] in the stomach. I can’t stand that. He thinks he can do whatever he wants so I went over and I pushed him. I mean, I didn’t hit him or go after him, I just pushed him down. He’s not going to do that to my teammates. He stood up and tried to poke Clyde in the eye and cut his eye open. I don’t like him, I don’t think he’s a good person. He’s a good player but when he’s out there he’s doing stuff that he shouldn’t get away with.
 
Chicago Fire midfielder John Thorrington
On the game
I think it’s just the same old story. It’s the same thing that happened on Saturday. We got up deservedly through our play and doing what we were supposed to do, implementing a game plan, go up a goal and had chances to make it more than one – we don’t capitalize on those. We make a bad mistake, they capitalize – 1-1 – and they score on a set piece in extra time. You can’t fault anything effort-wise. I think everybody that was out there left it on the field, but it’s disappointing to put so much in and come away empty handed.
 
Chicago Fire head coach Denis Hamlet
On why the team lost
It’s very simple – we don’t finish our chances. And we have one mistake and we get punished for it and they get back in the game, momentum swiotchs a bit. It’s the same thing that happened in Columbus.  It’s two games now that we’ve had the lead and concede a goal late in the game.
 
On United’s 4-5-1 formation to start the game
We just went out and played our game, you know – that’s all we’re concerned about. We felt that no matter what players they put on the field, we just have to go out with the right attitude and compete and keep the ball moving – and we did. We had a great goal in the first half, we gave up a couple and that’s the game.
 
On finishing chances
We had some very good looks and, our guys, they have to step up to the plate and finish those chances, because at the end of the day that’s what this game is about.  We create chances and we’re not finishing those chances. 

 


DCU vs. Chicago: Starting lineup

07/08/2008 6:24 PM by Kyle Sheldon

We're about an hour from kickoff and both teams are getting ready for tonight's match.  With Santino Quaranta, Marcelo Gallardo, Dan Stratford and Domenic Mediate all nursing injuries or getting rest, Tom Soehn has made a few changes to tonight's lineup.  The guys will run out in a 4-5-1 in the following set-up:

Zach Wells; Bryan Namoff, Devon McTavish, Marc Burch, Gonzalo Martinez; Pat Carroll, Clyde Simms, Rod Dyachenko, Fred, Ryan Cordeiro; Luciano Emilio. 


D.C. United youth in semis of U17 Cup

07/08/2008 12:32 PM by Cris Cruz

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D.C. United's Under 17 Academy team is currently in Denver defending their 2007 MLS U17 Cup title. With three wins in the group phase, United moved on to the semifinals as the top seed and will face Chivas USA today for a spot in the final on Thursday.

D.C. started the 2008 tournament with a 3-1 win over the Colorado Rapids A team, followed up with a 3-0 win over the Houston Dynamo and replicated that scoreline against the Chicago Fire in their final group match yesterday.

The winner of the MLS U17 Cup will earn a spot in next year's Torneo Quixote, the U17 Club World Cup. Follow United's Academy team here.


Photo of the Day: New pitch at RFK

07/08/2008 10:40 AM by Kyle Sheldon

070808_RFK_pitch.jpg

A new pitch is being installed at RFK.  It will get its first use on Saturday, when CD Guadalajara comes to town for United's first group match in SuperLiga.  


U.S. Open Cup quarterfinals: DCU vs. Chicago

07/08/2008 9:39 AM by Kyle Sheldon

The Chicago Fire make their way to Germantown, Maryland tonight for a quarterfinal matchup with your men in Black-and-Red.  Kickoff at the Maryland SoccerPlex is set for 7:30 p.m. (EASTERN TIME) and here's what you need to read before you head out...

  • Zach Berman writes about the rivalry with Chicago in the Washington Post. 
  • Paul Tenoria, also in the Post, writes about Benny's surgery
  • John Haydon in the Washington Times writes about the team's climb back to .500
  • In the Examiner, Craig Stouffer writes about the faltering Fire
  • Meanwhile, in Chicago from the Southtown Star, Nick Firachu says the Fire will try to re-group tonight

Tickets are still available, so get yourself out to the SoccerPlex!

Predictions anyone? 


Potential Open Cup semi pairings announced

07/07/2008 6:42 PM by Kyle Sheldon

U.S. Soccer just sent out a release announcing the potential pairings for the U.S. Open Cup semifinal rounds.  Should United get past the Chicago Fire tomorrow night, it would host the winner of Crystal Palace Baltimore (USL2) and the New England Revolution.  The semifinal game would would take place on Tuesday, August 12 at RFK Stadium with a kickoff at 7:30 p.m. 

The Open Cup final will take place on August 24. 


Video: Honoring Benny Olsen

07/07/2008 5:24 PM by Kyle Sheldon

Via Dan Steinberg via D.C. Sports Bog via Comcast SportsNet via Blog Show, here is the video put together by Mr. Steinberg at the LA Galaxy game on June 29 - it's all about the Barra Brava's honoring of Ben Olsen.  Awesome. 


Tony's Take: Standing clarification

07/07/2008 4:30 PM by Tony Limarzi

062508_Limarzi.jpg

Tony Limarzi, the Radio Voice of D.C. United, provides live match commentary for all D.C. United games on WFED 1050 AM. He recently published his first book,Forza Italia, which is the story of the summer of 2006 – both Italy’s World Cup win in Germany and United’s MLS season. 

I like symmetry.  When I'm looking at league standings, I like being able to compare apples to apples.  Unfortunately, it's not really possible in MLS.  In soccer leagues around the world, everybody plays on the weekend.  After Week One of the season, all the teams have exactly one result.  So on and so forth through Week Thirty Four, or whatever the final week of the season is.  It makes it pretty easy to grasp your team's situation.  I feel like MLS should start scheduling in this way.  The Thursday Night national television game could still exist, assuming that the teams that play on Thursday both have the following weekend off.  This would also leave the weekdays open for the other additional tournaments that MLS teams have to deal with- U.S. Open Cup, SuperLiga, CONCACAF Champions League.  Unfortunately, the MLS schedule is a little erratic, which makes the standings more confusing than necessary.

So, I'm here to try and help clarify a few things.  New England is currently in first place in the Eastern Conference, and the league.  But the Revs have played two more matches than Columbus, and the Crew only trails New England by six points.  That's not exactly a fair comparison in the standings.  Here are two ways to help simplify. 
 
Method #1 – Points Per Game Average
If you take the number of standings points a team has earned, and divide by the number of matches that team has played, you get their points per game average.  That shows a little more clearly how everybody stacks up against each other.
 
Method #2 – Midway Point
After this weekend's matches, 11 of the 14 MLS teams have played at least 15 matches, half the season.  The three teams that have only played 14 matches are Kansas City, Toronto FC, and Chicago. 
 
Take a good look at the number of Eastern Conference teams in the top half of the table.
 
After 15 Games Played
 
Points Per Games Played
 
TEAM
CONF
PTS
 
TEAM
GP
PTS
PPG
1.
NE
EAST
27
1.
NE
17
33
1.941
2.
CLB
EAST
27
2.
CLB
15
27
1.800
3.
DC
EAST
22
3.
CHI
14
21
1.500
4.
CHI*
EAST
21
4.
TFC
14
21
1.500
5.
TFC*
EAST
21
5.
DC
15
22
1.467
6.
LA
WEST
21
6.
LA
15
21
1.400
7.
CHV
WEST
21
7.
CHV
15
21
1.400
8.
NY
EAST
20
8.
NY
15
20
1.333
9.
HOU
WEST
19
9.
COL
15
19
1.267
10.
RSL
WEST
19
10.
RSL
16
20
1.250
11.
COL
WEST
19
11.
HOU
16
20
1.250
12.
FCD
WEST
17
12.
KC
14
17
1.214
13.
KC*
EAST
17
13.
FCD
16
18
1.125
14.
SJ
WEST
12
14.
SJ
15
12
0.800
 
* KC, TFC, and CHI have only played 14 matches.
 
Now that we've reached the midway point of the season, it's a natural time to take a look at the second half, and hopefully as you do so, you'll have a clearer idea of D.C. United's situation.  Of course, by the time D.C. United actually plays another league match on July 22, the midpoint standings won't be that helpful either.  If you think it's tough to know where your team stands now, wait until you it comes time to discuss the playoff scenarios.  Enjoy the straightforwardness of U.S. Open Cup and Superliga!
 

Video: Will Chang on 'American Soccer'

07/07/2008 3:25 PM by Kyle Sheldon

Here's the video from last week's edition of GolTV's 'American Soccer' which includes a long interview with Will Chang, United's Co-Managing Partner.  In two parts... 


BTB Merchandise Offer: Women's tees

07/07/2008 3:14 PM by Kyle Sheldon

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Are you a woman?  

Are you a man who knows a woman?  

If you said 'yes' to either of these questions, then you'll want to keep reading. 

The newest Behind the Badge merchandise offer is here and it's all for the ladies.  The D.C. United Team Store is offering Women's home (black) and away (white) t-shirts for 25% off.  These tops - cut specifically for United's women fans - are normally $20, but you can get them for the LOW, LOW price of just $15.  It's a v-neck, with screen printed logos and it's 100% cotton. 

Call the D.C. United Team Store at 202-546-7023 to order (or visit at RFK Stadium's main gate) and mention the Behind The Badge offer.  

Adult sizes are available in S-XL and the offer is valid until July 21, 2008 or while supplies last.  The only time you can't take advantage of this offer is on game days.  Cool?


Olsen, Stratford have surgery

07/07/2008 2:37 PM by Kyle Sheldon

Quick injury update:  

Dan Stratford had successful surgery on his left knee this morning by Dr. Kevin Sumida of Commonwealth Orthopeadics at the Virginia Hospital Center.  He is expected to miss 3-4 weeks. 

Ben Olsen is also having surgery today in Baltimore on his left ankle.  After playing last week against the Galaxy and finding the pain to be significant, the midfielder opted to have a few things done to try and get closer to full strength.  We'll have more information once the surgery is complete, but Benny will likely miss at least a month. 


Video: Rhinos recap

07/07/2008 9:47 AM by Kyle Sheldon

As the team looks to its game tomorrow night against the Chicago Fire in the U.S. Open Cup quarterfinals, here's a look at last week's 2-0 win over the Rochester Rhinos.  Lots more video on our YouTube page.  


Will Chang on GolTV

07/02/2008 3:46 PM by Doug Hicks

D.C. United Co-Managing Partner Will Chang is set to be interviewed tonight on GolTV's "American Soccer."  The show, which airs tonight from 10:00 to 11:00 pm ET (two hours later than normal), features hosts Phil Schoen, Julian Gonzalez and Kelly O'Donnell. In the interview, Will will discuss all topics United. "American Soccer" is the only one-hour soccer show in North America solely dedicated to U.S. men's and women's soccer, both here in the states and Americans playing abroad. 

Tune in tonight and enjoy!


Burch leads the way

07/01/2008 11:48 PM by Doug Hicks

Marc Burch has a dangerous left foot.  The man nearly beat John Busch in Chicago last month on a set piece and he left LA's Steve Cronin standing on his line as his 30-yard free kick smashed off of the cross bar last Sunday.  Tonight, he again showed his skill, scoring on two second half free kicks, leading United to a 2-0 win over the Rochester Rhinos and into the U.S. Open Cup semifinals.  The full account is here. With the win, United is unbeaten in seven matches (6-0-1) in all competitions and have a week to prepare to host the Chicago Fire at the Maryland SoccerPlex. 

So after scoring on two free kicks, Mr. Obvious (who was in attendance tonight) might ask, "Why didn't Burch take the free kick at the end of the game?" 

Good question.  United players and coaches, alike, had the same thought.  Here's how Marc explained in the locker room afterward:

"Can you believe Fred?  I mean, he looks at me and says 'I'll take this one.'  I'm like, 'really?' And he says, 'no, I'm kidding.' Then he proceeds to go up and kick the ball over the goal!'

Fred soon entered the room to rousing laughter and had this to add:

"I was joking with Burchy that I was going to take the kick.  I was going to run over the ball, though.  As I went up to it, though, I saw a hole in the wall and, all of the sudden, I kicked it.  It was instinct and I had no idea what I was doing.  I'm sorry coach." 

Cue more laughter.  Winning games is fun.


Access United: Galaxy recap

07/01/2008 10:05 PM by Kyle Sheldon

 


The pursuit of the Dewar Trophy begins

07/01/2008 6:30 PM by Doug Hicks

An hour from kick-off and United coach Tommy Soehn has announced his line-up.  Playing for the second time in three days, the Black-and-Red will field some reserves tonight, but there are some big names in the line-up as well.  United is clearly taking this competition seriously.  Here are the guys charged with advancing the Black-and-Red to the quarterfinals of the U.S. Open Cup:

Zach Wells; Pat Carroll, Devon McTavish, Marc Burch, Gonzalo Martinez; Quavas Kirk, Dan Stratford, Rod Dyachenko, Ryan Cordeiro; Francis Doe and Luciano Emilio.

Predictions welcome below.


Craig Thompson signed

07/01/2008 1:20 PM by Cris Cruz

Yesterday we announced the signing of Craig Thompson to a developmental contract. D.C. United acquired the midfielder from the Houston Dynamo in exchange for a fourth round natural selection in the 2010 Supplemental Draft.

Thompson will be available for selection in tonight's U.S. Open Cup match against the Rochester Rhinos, set for a 7:30 p.m. ET kickoff at the Maryland Soccerplex. Tickets will be available at the gate so come out and support the Black-and-Red!


Cup time

07/01/2008 8:26 AM by Doug Hicks

Just two days after a 4-1 victory of the LA Galaxy, United is back in action tonight.  The Black-and-Red will turn their attention to the Rochester Rhinos and the 94-year-old U.S. open Cup.  With a major trophy and an automatic birth in the 2010 Champions' League on the line, D.C. United is sure to put forth their best effort.

Here's some suggested reading to be ready for the match:

Steven Goff previews the match in the Washington Post.

Craig Stouffer discusses United's focus on this year's event in the Washington Examiner.

Brian Straus offers his insight in the Washington Post Express.

The official dcunited.com preview can be found here.

Finally, don't forget to give Washington Times columnist Dick Heller a read.  The longtime local journalist joined us in the press box Sunday and liked what he saw.

Tonight's a big game.  With several players needing a rest after Sunday's victory, Tommy Soehn will have some decisions to make in determining tonight's line-up.  Stay tuned here for the latest pre-game news.


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