What’s At Stake?
The Union will host their first ever home game at Lincoln Financial Field and will welcome rivals D.C. United to town. Both clubs are pointless so far this season -- when it’s all said and done, that will change. Moving out of the Eastern Conference cellar is also a plus.
Remember When?
Back in 2004, Peter Nowak was the head coach of D.C. United and led them to their fourth MLS Cup in his first season in charge of the club. He spent two more seasons in Washington before moving on to work with the U.S. men’s national team.
Heroes & Villains
Fred vs. The whole team: The former D.C. United man is rested and ready to take on his old pals in what should be a solid showing from the Brazilian. Suspended in the first match of 2010 due to a red he saw with United last season, he should hop into Nowak’s starting lineup and come gunning for the team that traded him away earlier this year.
Danny Califf vs. Chris Pontius and Jaime Moreno: As the Union’s captain in their first match, Califf was up against the likes of Fredy Montero and Freddie Ljungberg. This time around, it’ll be second-year stud Pontius and D.C. lifer Moreno. Regardless who fills Toni Stahl’s shoes in the other center-back role, Califf will be charged with slowing the pair down and making sure his teammates know where they are at all times.
Stat that makes you go “Hmm..."
In their combined three matches so far this season, neither team has registered a goal. The Union were shut out 2-0 in their inaugural match, while D.C. fell to Kansas City 4-0 and then the New England Revolution by a 2-0 score line.
He Said It
“I’ll do whatever the team needs. I’m looking forward to getting back on the field” -- Philadelphia forward Fred on returning to live action.
