Building on a solid - if unspectacular - outing in Vancouver, D.C. United returned home with a brilliant performance Friday night against FC Dallas. Here's a look at some of the most important statistics from the Black-and-Red's 4-1 victory.
50.2%
It wasn’t by much, but for the first time this season D.C.United took more possession than its opponent. This marks the fourth consecutive match where theBlack-and-Red have improved in possession, showing steady growth since owningjust 42% of the ball against Sporting Kansas City in the opener.
17
D.C.’s number of attempts on goal topped its previousseason-best by five, offering tangible proof that United’s attack is becomingmore and more dangerous. No playerwas more threatening than Dwayne De Rosario, who led the Black-and-Red withfive shots.
585
That’s how many minutes of MLS play had passed since MaiconSantos’ last goal. While theBrazilian won’t be expected to carry the scoring load for United, his emergenceas a second forward to play alongside Hamdi Salihi will only help in opening space forthe rest of D.C.’s talented attacking corps.
13
Though D.C.’s amount of fouls committed was one greater thanFC Dallas, it was the least United has been whistled against all year. This speaks to two facts. First, United’s stranglehold inpossession greatly limited the opportunities to be exposed defensively. Second, the Black-and-Red defense –which has struggled on set pieces – turned in a disciplined performance and didn't put themselves in dangerous spots.
