Probably still need another cup of coffee to get myself going, but in the meantime, here are some items to ponder, D.C. United-related first:
– D.C. United 0, FC Dallas 1. It was really unfortunate for United not to a goal off the ridiculous 13th minute sequence in which FCD goalkeeper Kevin Hartman, who had a shocker in D.C.’s U.S Open Cup win at RFK two weeks ago, stuffed Adam Cristman and Danny Allsopp and then saw a blast from Clyde Simms bang off the post and rebound behind him. But the age and limited speed and effectiveness of the United back line becomes more and more of a risk with every minute played. Carey Talley made Jeff Cunningham look like Usain Bolt on the goal. Losing Jordan Graye to a hamstring strain was also unfortunate though it’s not expected to be serious, and Juan Manuel Peña got a rest but he’s only lasted 90 minutes in one of the four matches he’s played. D.C. has been much more compact and organized, but the need for first-half goals is massive when the back line can’t hold things together for a full match.
– The MRSA infection diagnosed by Santino Quaranta, which was treated by weekend surgery, is super scary. United general manager Dave Kasper said the team doesn’t have any immediate concerns about the safety of the team locker room but they are looking into it.
– As for hamstring injuries, Chris Pontius saw a specialist late last week in Charlottesville but nothing new was revealed and he’s still on track with his recovery. Perhaps some minutes as a substitute against AC Milan on May 26?
– Recently released D.C. midfielder Tiyi Shipalane is scheduled to go on trial with Real Salt Lake.
– Apparently, United won’t be the only MLS team represented on technical director Chad Ashton‘s upcoming trip to Ghana.
A couple other items, too:
– The Seattle Sounders are refunding season-ticket holders after the team’s 4-0 thrashing against Los Angeles on Saturday, giving them a one-game credit toward next season’s ticket package. Is anyone’s jaw not dropping over that decision? Wow. Could that apply in D.C? Considering United loses money already, it’s unlikely.
– Somebody tell CONCACAF that adding more matches doesn’t make World Cup qualifying better.
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