First Team

The Buzz: April 25, 2014

Jeff Parke close up

Ahead of tomorrow’s battle at RFK, let’s take a look at the matchup of D.C. United and FC Dallas. Both teams are in a run of form, with United on a four-game unbeaten streak, having scored six goals in those four matches. Since the streak began, the Black-and-Red has only conceded three goals.


Dallas, at the top of the West, has been dominating on set pieces, scoring seven of its 17 goals off restarts. United though, is tough in the air, with center backs Bobby Boswell and Jeff Parke leading the way. Also worth noting, FCD has yet to keep a clean sheet, racking up the goals against at 10. 


Here's what's been going on in the news:


Seth Vertelney calls your attention to the key matchups for tomorrow in the Washington Post Express. D.C. United Goalkeeping Coach Preston Burpo addressed some of these matchups earlier this week, and is confident that DCU’s organization and leadership will solve most problems, allowing for players to take care of their individual battles.


Soccer America has chosen DCU v FCD as its game to watch this weekend, noting the strengths of United and its recent success. “This season, a new team -- with new attitude -- is starting to think positively,” writes Paul Kennedy.


MLSsoccer.com previews the match, highlighting Dallas’ success off set pieces and the Black-and-Red’s effective style of play thus far. Hear what Dan Haiek and Matthew Doyle have to say about Saturday’s game.