D.C. United's reserves battled to a 1-0 victory over the Northern Virginia Royals on Monday morning on the RFK Auxiliary Fields. The conditions were extremely soggy as the Black-and-Red downed the local Premier Development League side behind a late Boyzzz Khumalo strike. United created multiple opportunities throughout the affair, and ultimately the South African's goal was enough to see off the Royals as United prepares for a strong week of training ahead of this weekend's match in Houston. 

Andy Najar made an inspired return from injury, playing the full 90 minutes after being sidelined since the May 1 match against New York. Najar did come on as a substitute at the weekend against Colorado, and his aggressive running and creativity in Monday's reserve match were welcome sights for the United faithful on hand to witness the contest. 

Jaime Moreno played up front with Luciano Emilio, and the Bolivian hit the crossbar twice in the game. On the first occasion Moreno's free kick narrowly grazed the woodwork, and later in the match the wily veteran received a wonderful cross from Najar and nearly broke the 0-0 deadlock. However, Khumalo was able to accomplish that task, coming on for Moreno in the 61' and scoring ten minutes later. 

Said United Assistant Coach Kris Kelderman, "I thought the match was good. The reason why we do these [reserve matches] is to get guys playing minutes to maintain sharpness and fitness levels, and in that aspect we were good. I thought possession was good as well, and even though we only got one goal we created many chances. We are working on trying to score more goals, and it was a good performance."

When asked about the resurgence of Najar, Kelderman commented, "Right from the beginning you could tell he [Najar] had his fitness back, he's been out for a couple of weeks, and a game like this is perfect for him to work his way back up."

D.C. United scoring summary

Boyzzz Khumalo - 71'

D.C. United line-up

Troy Perkins; Nigel White (Dom Mediate 73'), Barry Rice, Julius James, Devon McTavish (Fabian Irioyen 81'); Andy Najar, Brandon Barklage, Stephen King, Junior Da Silva; Luciano Emilio, Jaime Moreno (Boyzzz Khumalo 61')