The rest of MLS is going to want to take notice of D.C. United's 2-0 win over the Colorado Rapids on Wednesday. It wasn't just that United put together a complete performance, registering their first shutout victory of the season (no, the 2-0 win over Toronto FC doesn't count), it was also who was fueling the offense.
D.C. United Vs. Colorado Rapids, 2012 MLS: Dwayne De Rosario, Hamdi Salihi Lead Way
Dwayne De Rosario and Hamdi Salihi were paired together at forward and each scored a goal. It was De Rosario's first goal as a forward this season and it was Salihi's first goal as a starter. Salihi has now scored goals in three of four appearances after going scoreless in his first six. All of De Rosario's goals have come in his past five appearances.
Also of note was the play of Branko Boskovic, the almost forgotten Designated Player. Boskovic was active all night, sending in several dangerous crosses, and helped set up Salihi's goal. That goal actually featured all three of those players getting key touches, as De Rosario took a long pass and cut it back to Lewis Neal, who fed Boskovic for a header. Matt Pickens was able to save Boskovic's attempt, but the rebound came right back to a waiting Salihi, who put it away easily.
It could have actually been much worse, but Pickens was able to come up with eight saves, a couple of which could be nominated for Save of the Week.
The win gives United 21 points on the season, moving them even with Sporting Kansas City and one point behind the New York Red Bulls in the Eastern Conference. United has played more games than both teams.
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