Splishy Splashy
United's starting lineup was surprising and inherently mysterious, as
if Schroedinger's cat had been placed into Pandora's box. Confounding
expectations, and just when the team seemed to be gelling with four in
the back, Soehn sent out a 3-5-2. This was particularly alarming given
that Columbus has shown superior flank play this season that could--and
did--expose United's outside mids.
From the opening whistle Columbus looked quicker and more purposeful. They would continue to be more successful in winning and keeping the ball as the match wore on. But DC United, on the back of a fine performance by a loaner keeper and one inspired connection between Boyzzz and Emilio, got the job done. It was workmanlike and ugly, but the fans finally got to watch a league win at home.