At the halfway point of the 2009 season, D.C. United (5-2-8, 23 points) has just one more point than it did when it reached the turn last season with a record of 7-7-1 (22 points). It sure doesn’t feel that way. Have a look at the report card:
Coaching
United has given up twice as many goals on the road (14) than it has at RFK (7). But U.S. head coach Bob Bradley could use some lessons from Tom Soehn on how to rotate lineups and keep things fresh.
Grade » A-
Forwards
Luciano Emilio (5 goals, 2 assists) and Jamie Moreno (5 goals, 2 assists) are both in their usual spots atop United’s scoring chart. But Moreno can’t seem to get fit after two offseason surgeries, and high-priced Emilio hasn’t scored in over a month. A lack of finishing is a big reason why D.C. has walked away with so many ties.
Grade » B
Attacking midfielders
Christian Gómez, who will surely be pumped to face his squad from last year on Saturday, has improved as a communicator and is a willing super-sub. Versatile Chris Pontius (4 goals, 2 assists) plays like a veteran and should win rookie of the year, which stinks for Rodney Wallace (2 goals, 3 assists), who would be the frontrunner in most other seasons. But the renewed game — on and off the field — of Santino Quaranta (2 goals, 6 assists) is what makes United’s midfield special. Fred’s fragile health is a minor blemish.
Grade » A
Defensive midfielders
Ben Olsen has been solid if limited, and Clyde Simms remains rock steady. While Andrew Jacobson shows promise, his close proximity when opposition goals are scored seems like more than a coincidence.
Grade » B
Defenders
United pulled off a coup in bringing strapping Dejan Jakovic back from Europe to anchor its three-man back line, and Bryan Namoff has had a career year. But Marc Burch was on his heels in Seattle on Wednesday, not a great sign.
Grade » B+
Goalkeeping
It took a while for Josh Wicks to grab hold of the starting spot in the net from likely-to-depart Louis Crayton. If Wicks continues his strong run, this grade will go up over the next 15 games.
Grade » B
