It's been a long time since United looked across the midfield stripe and saw the Columbus Crew. In the two teams' only other meeting, the Crew topped the Black-and-Red 2-1 at RFK Stadium. That early season win came as quite a surprise to onlookers around the League, but proved to be a coming-out party for Columbus. The team continued its strong form throughout the season and are now holders of the Supporters' Shield which rested in DC the past two seasons.
So today comes a must-win for D.C. United in the true sense of the word. Only a victory sees the club through to the MLS Cup Playoffs, a loss or tie ends their 2008 MLS campaign. Many United supporters have made plans to be at Crew Stadium this evening. All others can catch the game on Comcast SportsNet, the Direct Kick package, MLSLIVE.tv, WTOP 1050 AM, 1500 AM, 820 AM or Radio America and the United Spanish Radio Network.
Here's a look at what the media is saying this morning:
The Washington Post says the Crew have United's full attention.
For the Times, it's win or else.
The Examiner looks at how United can continue.
The Post Express offers its thoughts here.
The official game preview from dcunited.com is here and supported by this.
We'll be back with line-ups prior to today's big game.
