Earlier in the season, Bill Hamid was inserted into the starting lineup after United began the season 0-5. He earned the win in his debut, but was soon after relegated back to understudy. After starting against New England, Hamid has his second chance to hold onto the role of starter and, if he manages to sustain the necessary level of play, he could give a glimpse into the future of D.C. United.
In the past, we’ve seen that winning is contagious and United fans have recently discovered that losing is also contagious. When teams play poorly, some things need to change. When strikers don’t score, new strikers are given a chance. When creators don’t create for their teammates, other players get the opportunity to try. When goalies are unable to make key saves or collect wins, back-up goalies are put into the first eleven.
It has been a tough season for everyone related to D.C. United, but no one has suffered the way Troy Perkins has. He returned to the Nation’s Capital to a hero’s welcome but, since the fanfare surrounding his arrival, Perkins has not had much to smile about. It’s not all his fault, as much was wrong with the team for the first portion of the season, and he was in the goal when the team began their modest and short-lived climb back upwards.
Ben Olsen and D.C. United are searching for answers. Who can help D.C. United right now? D.C. United win the next game? Who can help D.C. United moving forward? In terms of the goalie situation, the answer remains to be seen. Bill Hamid is a young strong athletic goalie who has the potential to be a star in MLS. With his insertion into the line-up Saturday and his subsequent performance, he has the opportunity to become that player sooner, rather than later.
