D.C. United extended its home-unbeaten streak to 19 games, thanks to a 60th-minute goal from striker Lionard Pajoy. The opportunity was created off of a deflected corner kick, taken by Chris Pontius, with the ball initially falling to John Thorrington. Thorrington took a touch and hit a cheeky chip that caught Real Salt Lake goalkeeper Nick Rimando off-guard. Rimando then made a sprawling save and Pajoy was there to head the rebounded-shot home.
Pajoy came to the Black-and-Red by way of the Philadelphia Union last August, when the club traded midfielder Danny Cruz for the Colombian forward. In 12 games with United in 2012, Pajoy logged close to 1,000 minutes and tallied three goals and one assist. Known for his industrious play, Pajoy often subtly creates chances for his teammates through his ability to wear down an opponent’s defense, but tonight, he played hero. With the match-winner to secure the Black-and-Red victory, Real Salt Lake remains winless at RFK Stadium in eight attempts.
