Following a 4-0 loss to the first place Houston Dynamo on Wednesday night at RFK Stadium, D.C. United has a tall task in heading to Frisco, Texas to take on League-best FC Dallas. While both teams will undoubtedly be tired following mid-week games, the Black-and-Red will arrive in the Lone Star State in search of a result.
Track all lines of the attack
FC Dallas, MLS’ top team through the early part of the season, has eight players on the scoring charts this season. Two defenders, four midfielders and two forwards have netted goals for the club this season, so the Black-and-Red must keep a mindful eye across the field to keep FC Dallas off the scoreboard.
High energy and commitment from the start
After a loss on Wednesday, Ben Olsen stressed that the team needed to come out of the gates with more hunger and urgency. In what will likely be a hostile environment in Frisco, D.C. United will need to start the game with emotion, commitment and confidence.
Score some goals
After starting slowly in 2012, D.C. United had a breakout game against FC Dallas, winning 4-1 in late March at RFK Stadium. While the Black-and-Red has held the shots advantage in its last three games, the conversion rate needs to be higher. With no road goals yet this season, D.C. United’s attacking corps must find the back of the net.
“Hopefully we can just get one win and that can turn into something, but you know at this point, tough game, tough stretch,” said United midfielder Perry Kitchen. “We just have to stick together and try to get something out of the next game.”
