First Team

Gunning for First

Bill Hamid and Bobby Boswell - high five - 2014

As D.C. United heads into its last three Regular Season games, its first goal of making the Playoffs is off the to-do list and in the accomplished column. With a spot in the Eastern Conference playoffs clinched, the Black-and-Red has reset its goal to winning the East and securing home-field advantage.


Assistant Coach Chad Ashton praised United’s grit and character on the night of United’s 0-0 draw with Sporting Kansas City on Oct. 3 that pushed the Black-and-Red through to the postseason. After quick reflection, the squad looks forward.


“That’s a good trait for a team, to always want more, never be satisfied,” Ashton said. “We’re in now, and now we can concentrate on trying to win the East.”


Head Coach Ben Olsen had similar comments, quickly moving on from what’s done and reaching for more.


“It’s good to get that out of the way,” Olsen said. “Fortunately, I think the team has bigger goals now, and there’s a feeling that they can do something. Whether it’s finish top three, or finish first and make a run at this thing.”


The Houston Dynamo (10-14-6), Chicago Fire (5-8-18) and the Montreal Impact (6-18-7) are next for United, the three bottom teams in the Conference, respectively. Both The Fire and the Impact are eliminated from playoff contention, and the Dynamo's future hangs in the balance in its match against TFC tonight, giving the Black-and-Red a great chance to accomplish its next goal.

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