D.C. United had to put in a few extra minutes to beat the Richmond Kickers 2-1 on Tuesday night. Hamdi Salihi scored halfway through the first half and Marcelo Saragosa got the match-winner in the 107th minute to push the Black and Red into the next round. Richmond’s goal was scored by Stanley Nyazamba just before halftime after Saragosa tripped Chris Agorsor in the box resulting in a penalty kick.
It was a close one, but in the US Open Cup, a victory is a victory no matter how close it is. Richmond gave up the first half goal, and I thought it was just the first of many for United. Unfortunately, I along with almost everyone else, was unable to watch the match since Richmond’s stadium is incapable of streaming matches. Instead, I followed along thanks to the greatness of Twitter (@DCUmatchday).
Props to DC United for staying in the tournament, since there are many MLS clubs which cannot say the same. A total of seven MLS clubs were beaten out on Tuesday night, which could make the schedule for DC a little easier in the future should they survive the next round. Speaking of the next round, United will take on the Philadelphia Union next Tuesday night at the Maryland Soccerplex, and if you go you might just see me. Philly will be a much harder opponent than Richmond, and they looked strong against the Rochester Rhinos.
Kickoff is set for June 5th at 7:30. A live stream of the match might be available, although I’m not sure at the moment. Anybody interested should keep checking back at the MLS website from time to time.
(image courtesy of DC United)
