D.C. United (17-9-7) clinched first place in the Eastern Conference with a 2-1 win over the Chicago Fire (5-10-18) at RFK Stadium. With one more Regular Season game remaining, United has gained that ever-important momentum heading into the MLS Cup Playoffs as well as crucial home field advantage for the post season.
“Tonight is a special night for the club and our players,” said D.C. United Head Coach Ben Olsen. “They've earned this, and I told them that. I told them to go out there and reward themselves and reward the fans for the season that they've had together.”
His first goal since September 14, 2013 in a 2-2 tie with the LA Galaxy, Chris Pontius has only featured in the last five matches of 2014 due to hamstring surgery in April.
“It's just great and I'm happy for him,” Olsen said. “I know that road, it's a long one. And I also know the road of coming back and getting that big goal at home and helping your team after being out for a long time. I think he's excited about being fit again and helping this organization.”
With Eddie Johnson’s game-winner, his seventh on the season, United earned three points on the night, solidifying its spot in the playoffs when only one point was needed to clinch.
“It feels amazing, honestly,” concluded D.C. United goalkeeper Bill Hamid.
The Black-and-Red is back in action on Saturday against Montreal, then begin the 2014 Playoff run. Buy your tickets now.
