The Black-and-Red stymied Toronto FC at RFK Stadium on Saturday night, defending valiantly after going a man late in the first half to earn a 1-1 draw.
Kofi Opare's first goal of 2017 gave the hosts an early lead when he rose highest during a Lloyd Sam corner kick in the sixth minute. United, who lead MLS in headed shots and aerials won, looked to defeat the visitors through the air throughout the first half.
After Toronto drew level just minutes after the break on a scramble in the D.C. penalty box that culminated in an own goal, the Reds looked on course to grind down the hosts and find a late winner. But the shorthanded Black-and-Red held strong, with Bill Hamid making several impressive stops, including one on Giovinco in which the Italian was one-on-one.
The draw was United's first since June 3 (0-0 against the LA Galaxy) and ended their losing streak. Opare, whose goal was his first in MLS since May 13, 2015, was strong in his defensive duties as well, making several headed clearances and throwing his body to defend the net.
The Black-and-Red now will look to build off the result and earn all three points next weekend against Real Salt Lake at RFK Stadium.
