D.C. United (13-10-9, 49 points) drew 0-0 with the New York Red Bulls (14-13-6, 48 points) on Sunday evening at Red Bull Arena. The clean sheet was D.C. United’s fourth consecutive shutout - setting a new record for most consecutive shutouts in a single-season for the Black-and-Red.
The early stages of the contest were played mostly between the final thirds. Both New York and D.C. United had trouble finding their offensive rhythm at Red Bull Arena. Russell Canouse once again made an incredible impact at right-back for United. The defender made 11 interceptions, won eight tackles, made four blocks, and amassed 26 total clearances during his 90-minute shift at Red Bull Arena.
Another key defensive piece has been the steady play of veteran center back Frédéric Brillant. The Frenchman made his 60th MLS Regular Season appearance this Sunday and saved a goal when he made an off-the-line header to take Tom Barlow’s goalbound effort away in the 60th minute. Brillant has come up big a couple of times in key moments for D.C. this season.
In the 61st minute of the match, New York was awarded a corner kick from the right. The ball swung in and fell to Casseres who just managed to get a toe on the ball and push it towards the left side of the net. The ball did not get past Hamid’s quick reaction stop despite him having to deal with a partial screen on the play. The Annandale native reached back and swiped the ball over the crossbar.
Wayne Rooney received a yellow card in the 77th minute of the contest. The Englishman will now have to sit for the final regular game of the season against FC Cinncinati on 10/6. With this shutout draw, Hamid holds D.C. United’s single-season record for clean sheets with 13. This brings his season save total to 124 on the year, which is third highest in the league. If United win their final regular-season match of 2019 they will guarantee home-field advantage for the first round of the 2019 Audi MLS Playoffs.
D.C. United will now turn their focus towards FC Cincinnati on Sunday, Oct 6th for the final regular-season game of 2019 on MLS Decision Day powered by AT&T. United have played Cincinnati just once in their head-to-head history, a 4-1 victory for United back on Thursday, July 18th. If United win their regular-season finale they will be guaranteed home-field advantage for the start of the Audi 2019 MLS Cup Playoffs.
