After a disappointing last-minute loss to the Portland Timbers, D.C. United were eager to get back in the win column against the Philadelphia Union. A brilliant sixth-minute half-volley from Chris Rolfe off a deflected cross sent the away fans into a frenzy of flag-waving and cheers as United were up 1-0. The scoreline held despite a second-half Philadelphia barrage, sealing D.C.’s first road win in a year and a half. Overall, the team looked dominant throughout and it is evident that the mistakes of last year would not be repeated.
Most of United’s win’s this season have been grinding wins and, in normal circumstances, this would mean trouble. However, this United team was unable to convert in even the closest games last season. This season, the story is completely different; United has a will to win that outweighs almost anything that their opponents have been able to throw at them so far. That said, the performances have continued improving over the past several weeks—a crucially important development as United seeks to establish a rhythm and some form of regular dominance over their opponents. This game saw two big stories emerge: Chris Rolfe’s genius mid-season pickup and the continued Eddie Johnson slump.
Chris Rolfe has quickly become a fan-favorite, and that was never more apparent that it was in the away supporters’ section in Chester, PA. Immediately following Rolfe’s goal a fan exclaimed “You’re the best mid-season pickup ever, Rolfe!” Having turned it over in my head since, I couldn’t agree more. For the past several weeks, myself and other fans have noted to one another that Rolfe is the youngest looking guy on the field. He seems to be everywhere in the midfield and attacking thirds and his finesse has sealed at least two wins for the Black and Red since his first match. What Chris Rolfe lacks in youth he more than makes up for in effort, experience, and the always-illusive “soccer IQ”. I’ll probably be buying myself a Rolfe jersey sometime this season if he keeps this up.
On the other hand, we have Eddie Johnson. To be fair to him, he did score this weekend and no one will tell me otherwise. On the replay and match highlights, he is clearly lined up with the last defender when the ball is played—an unfortunate bad call that has extended his scoreless streak. He is clearly frustrated, and it is costing him opportunities. Twice in the first half he failed to follow up on chips over the defense because he thought he was offside.; he’s not doing himself any favors by feeling down. Eddie Johnson is a great striker, but so far all he’s been able to show for it is shots on goal and some truly amazing assists. Montreal will be a great opportunity for him to break the drought, and I would bet on him to score at least once. Once Johnson is back in stride, the team will be that much more dangerous. The Espindola/Johnson partnership has the potential to rival Martins/Dempsey in shredding the central defense of opposing teams, and it’s only a matter of time before Johnson helps prove it.
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