Beckham games still an event in D.C.

United’s 4-1 victory over the Los Angeles Galaxy Sunday at RFK Stadium overshadowed the international superstar’s return to D.C. The blonde husband of a former Spice Girl was a non-factor, his best shot landing in a shed far behind United’s goal.

Instead, it was more of a soccer game than last year’s sideshow when 46,000 came to see Beckham. The seats behind both goals were largely empty this time aound, but the crowd of 35,979 was mostly hard-core soccer fans. La Bara Brava must include Washington Capitals fans on summer break. The old bouncing stands at Redskins games were beyond intense with nonstop singing, flag waving, and drum beating.

Indeed, United games remain an international event in the stands. From the Brazilian women drummers who are far more interesting to watch than Redskinettes to European soccer fans who think the U.S. league is the minors, sightseeing in the seats is more enticing than the game at times.

The crowd sported many Beckham jerseys, but fans taunted him too starting with a massive banner asking if he should be in Austria — a wisecrack over a game long ago.

“I’ve had a lot worse,” said Beckham with a grin. “It’s part of the atmosphere.”

Beckham was the center of attention on the field, too. Still an exceptional passer at age 33, Beckham was knocked around pretty hard by United defenders. He responded to a blindside hit by Gonzalo Martinez with an obscene arm gesture after officials wouldn’t call a foul. Then again, Martinez was leveled by a Beckham close blast early in the game.

The two highest scoring teams combined with the worst two defenses lent to pregame speculation whether the traditional 1-0 sport would outscore the neighboring Nationals-Orioles game. The Las Vegas over/under was a gaudy three goals compared to 1 1/2 most games.

United led 3-1 with 30 minutes remaining — a Great Wall of China lead in soccer. Yet, the edge didn’t feel safe with Beckham on the field. United pressed on with two near misses before Luciano Emilio scored his second goal in the 68th minute. A three-goal lead is like a three-touchdown edge in football. The national audience hit their remotes while locals caught the first inning of the Nats-Orioles. The Galaxy were clearly spent by the excessive hot conditions.

It was a relentless effort to the final minute. United is now 7-7-1 with four straight wins after a 5-0-1 run. No one’s calling for coach Tom Soehn’s job anymore.

“Two months ago, we were still sorting out some issues,” Soehn said. “They stuck together. It was a matter of time before chemistry started setting in. … They’re looking more like a team and results go along with it.

“There’s a lot to improve on.”

Rick Snider has covered local sports since 1978. Contact him at [email protected].