On a gorgeous, sunny day in the nation’s capital, D.C. United supporters came out in full force – 18,019 to be exact – to watch their team take on Atlantic Cup rivals the New York Red Bulls. Scarves were handed out to the first 7,500 fans that entered the stadium - which included a strong collegiate contingent in attendance for “College Night” - and a clever tifo was displayed by La Norte and the District Ultras.
While the Black-and-Red lost the game 2-0, United has historically owned the Atlantic Cup series, grabbing nine of those trophies since the series’ inception in 2002. And the boys in black were unlucky to not hit the back of the net, dominating in almost every statistical category on the night, including possession (58.2%), open play crosses (31 to New York’s 10) and duels won (47).
“I thought in possession we were a lot better,” said midfielder Chris Pontius. “I thought we were more connected offensively…We have a long way to go and I saw improvement tonight, as crazy as that sounds.”
United next takes on I-95 rival the Philadelphia Union this coming Sunday, April 21 at RFK Stadium (5 p.m. ET; ESPN 2), and if last year’s series is any indication, this duel should reach new heights in 2013.
