D.C. United returned to Audi Field Sunday night for a Mother’s Day matchup against Sporting Kansas City. On a rainy night in the District, the game was physical and competitive. Ultimately, the Black-and-Red were able to edge their opponents with a late goal from Paul Arriola.
D.C. United dominated possession in the first half and created a few close chances, but were unable to find the back of the net. In the 14th minute, Rooney set up for one of his famous free kicks, but it was saved by the Sporting Kansas City goalkeeper Tim Melia. In the 32nd minute, Steve Birnbaum headed the ball inside the box, but Melia made another save to keep it scoreless. The two teams went to halftime scoreless.
In the second half, the teams continued to go back and forth. Sporting Kansas City created more solid chances and D.C. United relied on Bill Hamid to make some massive saves. He stepped up to the plate, keeping the clean sheet for the Black-and-Red.
Finally, in the 78th minute, D.C. United was able to break through. Arriola got the ball on the edge of the 18-yard box and launched a rocket into the far corner, giving D.C. United a 1-0 lead. The goal was enough to hand the Black-and-Red a victory and another three points at home, and to earn the midfielder the title of Man of the Match.
D.C. United has a quick turnaround this week as they hit the road to face Toronto FC on Wednesday before traveling to Houston to face the Dynamo on Saturday. Both matches will be broadcast on FloFC.
