September 13th, 2008 . 9:41 am . By: Jay Brownlee

FC Dallas faced a virtual must-win match at home last week and failed the test, losing to the previously reeling Colorado Rapids. Once again, an inability to score off numerous chances and an inability to defend the set-piece cost most likely cost the Hoops a chance at the playoffs in 2008. It certainly narrowed the wiggle room they might enjoy as other teams slip up.

Now the Hoops (6-9-8, 26 pts) head off to our nation’s Capitol, hoping to reverse a season almost as ugly as the race for President. DC United sits fourth in the Eastern Conference (10-11-2, 32 pts), looking to secure a playoff spot one year after winning the Supporter’s Shield with the best record in MLS. Considering United might have the most changed roster from opening day in MLS, that’s quite an accomplishment. 

United’s resurgence has been led by Jaime Moreno and Luciano Emilio’s combined 20 goals. But United have tallied 37 times on the year, so danger lurks in DC from nearly every corner of the pitch. Defense has been the big problem for United this year, conceding 36 goals. Much of the problem was thought to be former Houston Dynamo backup goalkeeper Zach Wells, recently replaced with Liberian International, Louis Crayton. Crayton has had an OK start, giving up 4 goals in 5 matches and notching 16 saves.

Entering Saturday’s match, DC United are 2-2-1 with a U.S. Open Cup Championship win over USL-1 Side Charleston Battery in between. The Hoops come in 1-3-1 in their last 5. FC Dallas has not beaten DC United since May 28, 2005, a span of five matches.

You might think that sitting fourth in the division and in possible danger of missing the playoffs, DC United might be feeling some pressure. However, if DC United fails to make it to post-season, they have already assured a spot in the CONCACAF Champions League next year. This club just has a knack of adding hardware to their trophy cabinet practically every year.

Dallas is in a different position. The Hoops have only the playoffs to worry about. There is still a chance for the Hoops to move up and secure the 3rd place finish it will take to make the playoffs. They are only 4 points out. However, hardware in Dallas has been extremely difficult to come by. This year appears to be no different.

Is there still reason for hope in Dallas? Realistically, FC Dallas would need to win these last 7 matches (21 points) to move above the 45 points they will most likely need to reach the playoffs. One loss might be acceptable. Two would most likely end all hopes. Last season, Dallas secured the 3rd place finish in the West with 44 points. It’s a tall order.

Once again, Dallas will be without the services of Duilio Davino, who has returned to Mexico to nurse his ailing toe. Drew Moor will not suit up due to yellow card accumulation. For United, Marcelo Gallardo is healthy again, Fred will most likely play, but will not start, and Gonzalo Peralta will rest alongside Joe Vide in hopes of starting Tuesday against Saprissa.

But this game is about much more for Dallas than injuries. Dallas must answer questions that will determine whether they have a chance at the playoffs in 2008. Will Kenny Cooper come out of his scoring slump? Can Dallas play a full match? Who is going to step up and lead this club on the field? Does this team have the ability to raise their play and will themselves into the playoffs?

Schellas Hyndman can only do so much now. It is up to the players on the pitch to determine this team’s fate. Are they up to the task?

Prediction: It’s hard to be very enthusiastic about this match. DCU 3:1 FCD.

Categories: Match Preview.

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