Kick This!

United 3 - Rapids 1 July 18, 2009

Hairy Situation

United found itself one goal down at the end of the first half. The players were stone-faced as they walked off the field. Colorado's score came on an own-goal against the run of play, after United had dominated but had been unable to get the ball into the Rapids' net.

United, in the wake of a long layoff and celebrating a return to health by key players, had been looking to restart its campaign with a big, momentum-injecting win. The story being written at RFK after the first 45" was one of disappointment, however, a reminder that the ball is round and the players we cheer are merely human after all.

Come the second half, with a remarkable turn around United put its stamp on the game, the RFK air was electrified for the first time in seemingly ages, and the fans sung their way happily into the night.

Was the old United swagger and style finally back?

Talon Rating:  4 out of 5 birds

Rapids 3 - United 0 June 20, 2009

We keep hearing about how United hasn't won at Colorado since May 2000, followed by the conclusion that this must be the result of the altitude. Malarky! Other teams go there and don't get so comprehensively smoked.

Then there is the excuse that United was physically and mentally worn out from their big games against Chicago and Seattle, as well as from traveling. There is some truth to this. However, the biggest liabilities on the field the other night--John and Janicki--shouldn't have been worn out since they haven't been playing much recently at all.

Then what's the problem exactly? Aside from fatigue and the turf, the coaching.

Talon Rating:  1 out of 5 Birds