2011 D.C. United season

D.C. United
2011 season
General Manager Dave Kasper
Head Coach Ben Olsen
Stadium RFK Stadium
MLS Conference: 7th
Overall: 13th
U.S. Open Cup Qualification Second round
Atlantic Cup Runners-up
Carolina Challenge Cup Winners
Top goalscorer League:
Dwayne De Rosario (16)
All:
Dwayne De Rosario (16)
Highest home attendance 26,622 vs. LA
Lowest home attendance 11,254 vs. SEA
Average home league attendance 15,181
Home colors
Away colors
Third colors
← 2010 2012 →

The 2011 D.C. United season was the club's 17th year of existence, their 16th season in Major League Soccer, and their 16th consecutive season in the top-flight of American soccer. D.C. United will be trying to salvage a poor showing last season, finishing at the bottom of the MLS standings. The season covers the period of 1 November 2010 through 31 October 2011.

Ahead of the preseason, then interim-head coach Ben Olsen assumed head coaching duties, under a three-year contract for an undisclosed price.[1] Olsen became the first head coach in franchise history to both play for and coach the squad. Upon retiring as a player on 24 November 2009 Olsen became an assistant coach under head coach Curt Onalfo. On 7 August 2010 Olsen was named interim head coach after Onalfo was fired. Olsen finished the 2010 season with a 3–8–1 record. Several major offseason acquisitions were made, in both the offense and defense. Notable signings included Charlie Davies on loan, Perry Kitchen, Dax McCarty and Josh Wolff. In the summer, a major trade was made when United traded McCarty to their Atlantic Cup rivals, New York Red Bulls, for Dwayne De Rosario. During the MLS regular season, United regularly hovered in the middle of the league's overall table, frequently swapping positions barely in or outside of a berth in the MLS Cup Playoffs. Ultimately, their playoff run ended in the 33rd week of the campaign, culminating a six match winless streak, that included five-consecutive losses.

Outside of MLS, the team failed to qualify for the third round proper of the U.S. Open Cup for the first time since 2002. In the qualification propers, United lost 3–2 to New England Revolution in the MLS qualification semifinals. Before the MLS regular season campaign, United participated in the preseason Carolina Challenge Cup tournament, where the club defended their 2010 title by recording a 2–0–1 record in the pre-season competition.

Background

The 2010 season marked the worst regular season record in United's history, as the club finished at the bottom of the Eastern Conference and overall league standings.[2] As a result, United failed to qualify for the MLS Cup Playoffs for a league record-tying third year.

Midway through the season, head coach Curt Onalfo was fired and replaced by assistant coach, Ben Olsen. As interim head coach Olsen led the club to a 3–8–1 record, which advanced them to a season total of 22 points over 30 games.

The team concluded the regular season on 23 October 2010 with a 3–2 loss at home against Toronto FC. Club veteran, Jaime Moreno, earned his 133rd regular season goal during the final match of his professional career.[3] Moreno departed professional soccer as the MLS career scoring leader.[4]

Preseason

November 2010

On 24 November, D.C. United acquired Dax McCarty and an allocation fee of roughly $35,000 from the Portland Timbers for Rodney Wallace and the lower of United’s two fourth round 2011 MLS SuperDraft selections. Three days after playing for the entire MLS Cup 2010 McCarty was acquired by the Portland Timbers with the first overall pick of the 2010 MLS Expansion Draft.[5] At 4:13 pm EST D.C. United announced it had signed McCarty from the Portland Timbers.[6]

Former player Ben Olsen took over head coaching duties on 29 Nov. 2010.

After much speculation for a new coach, United announced Ben Olsen became head coach on 29 November 2010.[1] His three-year contract as an assistant coach was replaced with a new three-year guaranteed contract that also includes options for additional seasons. At the time of the announcement Olsen had only selected one assistant coach, Chad Ashton, who had been serving as technical director during the previous season. Mark Simpson, the goalkeeping coach, decided not to return to the club.[7] Kris Kelderman, who had another year under his contract as an assistant coach, was named the head coach of the UW–Green Bay Phoenix men's soccer team in May, 2010.

December

On 2 December, D.C. United announced it would not exercise options on the contracts of defenders Barry Rice and Juan Manuel Peña, as well as midfielder Carlos Varela and Brandon Barklage.[8]

On 21 December, D.C. United announced MLS veteran goalkeeper Pat Onstad would join D.C. United as goalkeeping coach. Onstad retired after a 24-year professional career, including 136 regular season matches with the Houston Dynamo. It was also announced that Olsen would not hire a third assistant coach to replace Kris Kelderman.[9]

On 8 December, D.C. United acquired former Houston Dynamo forward Joseph Ngwenya during the first stage of the 2010 MLS Re-Entry Draft. On 15 December, D.C. United acquired Josh Wolff from the Kansas City Wizards during the second stage of the draft. Ngwenya was guaranteed $156,000 for the 2011 season, which was an increase from his base salary in 2010 of $72,000. Wolff was guaranteed $160,000 for 2011, which was $60,004 less than his 2010 base salary.[10] However, a player's guaranteed money is typically larger than his base salary.

Between the two stages of the MLS Re-Entry Draft, D.C. United signed D.C. United Academy player Ethan White.[11][12][13] White previously played for the Maryland Terrapins before signing a homegrown player contract with D.C. United on 14 December 2010. He became the fourth academy signee within the last year for United.

January

The start of 2011 was highlighted by United's first selection in the SuperDraft, where they had the third overall pick in the first round. For the third pick, United drafted University of Akron standout Perry Kitchen,[14] who was a key cog for the Akron Zips' championship-run in the College Cup the previous month.[15] Club management expressed immense excitement in signing Kitchen, with head coach Ben Olsen and manager David Kasper sharing that if they had the first overall pick, they would have signed Kitchen.

Along with Kitchen, United signed Kitchen's fellow temmate, Chris Korb in the second round,[14] and in the final round, selecting Joe Willis, who last played for University of Denver in collegiate soccer, while playing for the Premier Development League's Real Colorado Foxes.[14]

"If I had had the number one pick, I would have taken him. I can't tell you how happy we are to have this kid."

Ben Olsen, D.C. United Head Coach, upon drafting midfielder Perry Kitchen in the SuperDraft.[14]

United also made one selection in the Supplemental Draft, choosing forward Blake Brettschneider in the second round. The Black-and-Red had previously traded its first-round pick and another first-round supplemental pick acquired in a SuperDraft day trade to Los Angeles Galaxy. United chose to pass on its third round Supplemental Draft selection.

On 30 January, at the Washington Auto Show, United unveiled their brand-new third kits for the 2011 season. The third kit, marked the first time in club history that the team will don a third kit during any year campaign.[16] The new third kit is predominately red; red jersey, shorts and socks, with accents of black on the jersey. The kit will likely be worn in select leagues matches, friendlies and U.S. Open Cup fixtures.

Concluding the Supplemental Draft, United shortly thereafter began their preseason training, which started with mandatory team physicals for the upcoming MLS season, as well as fitness training. Following players' medical clearances and preliminary training, United went south to Fort Lauderdale, Florida on 31 January to begin their preseason training camp.[17]

February

U.S. national team forward Charlie Davies was acquired on loan from Sochaux for the remainder of the year.

During the first week of February, rumors began to circulate that D.C. United was in "serious talks" with FC Sochaux-Montbéliard to acquire U.S. national team forward Charlie Davies on loan from the French Ligue 1 side. Originally declining to comment about a possible loan[18] Davies' agent, Lyle Yorks, told reporters that Davies was seeking a loan, in order to have more ample playing time while recovering from a serious of injuries he suffered in an automobile accident in October 2009.[19] On 2 February, D.C. United posted a press release that stated Davies would be training with United during their Fort Lauderdale training camp, for a week starting on 3 February.[20] Subsequently, club public relations released a press statement declaring that Davies would join United on loan if they saw him match fit.[21]

On 16 February, two weeks following the arrival of Charlie Davies in camp, the club made local[22][23][24] and national[25] headlines when they announced that they successfully acquired Davies on a 12-month loan deal from Sochaux. Club management expressed how impressive Davies was in camp. D.C. United have the option of buying out Davies from Sochuax at the end of the season should they decide to do so. United were able to obtain Davies due to their position in the leagues allocation order.[21]

The very next day following Davies official announcement, the club waived long-time defender, Julius James.[26] In the press statement, D.C. cited that the waiving freed another international roster spot on the team's squad.[26] That same day, United also acquired allocation money from L.A. Galaxy when trading the international roster spot vacated with James' departure.[26] James did not make any appearances with the club during preseason training.[26]

During their Florida preseason training, United went undefeated in all matches, winning each match.[27][28] and Florida International University's men's soccer team.[29] Following training in Florida, United continued their preseason tour by traveling to Southern California, where they played against the PDL's Ventura County Fusion, as well as a match against UC Santa Barbara's men's team. To conclude their California preseason training, United took on fellow MLS club, C.D. Chivas USA in a friendly on 25 February.[17] During their time in California, United posted victories against Ventura County as well as UC Santa Barbara, before drawing against Chivas USA.

Concluding the Chivas USA match, the club traveled back east to Charleston, South Carolina to participate in the Carolina Challenge Cup.

March

The first half of March opened with D.C. United participating in their final preseason tune-up, the 2011 Carolina Challenge Cup, played in Charleston, South Carolina. United, the defending champions, were paired up against the host Charleston Battery in the opening match of the tournament on 5 March. In the game, United emerged victorious 2–1, and moved into first place in the tournament table.

Three days later, United played their second MLS opponent of the preseason. This time, they played fellow conference foes, Chicago Fire, for the second match of the Challenge Cup. Played on 9 March, the match proved to be another successful game for newly acquired Brettschneider, as he tallied on the scoresheet in the 10th minute of play. Things would continue in United's way in the 37th minute, when Chicago midfielder Diego Cháves was ejected from the game in the 37th minute, allowing United to have a one-man advantage for a significant portion of the match. Consequently, the Fire would fail to create many goalscoring opportunities, being outshot 16–5 by United. Brettschneider's tenth-minute tally was the lone goal of the match, thus giving United a 2–0–0 record in the tournament table, and placing them in a key position to win the entire cup.

Needing a draw at minimum, United were in a keen position to win their second-consecutive Challenge Cup. The club closed out their cup run with their third and final match against last-place Toronto FC;[30] who had fallen to both Chicago and Charleston earlier in the week. The match started out heavily in favor of United, who scored off a Charlie Davies goal in the ninth minute.[30] The 1–0 lead over the Reds was short-lived, as TFC quickly leveled off of a penalty kick scored by TFC captain, Dwayne De Rosario, leveling the match at one-all. Immediately minutes later, the Reds struck again, taking a 2–1 lead. The lead was Toronto's first in the entire tournament and, ironically, United's first time trailing in a match in the entire tournament.[30]

Towards the end of the first half, nearing the halftime break, came an unusual string of reckless challenges from Toronto right back, Mikael Yourassowsky, on loan from Croatian side Rijeka. In the 36th minute of play, Yourassowsky was carded for a reckless challenge on Andy Najar, and a minute later was given a second yellow and subsequently ejected for doing a similarly mistimed tackle on Chris Pontius.[30] It would not be until the 62nd minute that United were able to capitalize on the shorthanded Toronto, restoring parity at 2–2 thanks a goal from Ngwenya.[30] The draw gave D.C. United the cup title.[30]

Regular season

During the Major League Soccer regular season, D.C. United finished with a record of 9–12–12, failing to qualify for the MLS Cup Playoffs for a record fourth-consecutive year.

D.C. United's began the Major League Soccer regular season on 19 March 2011, when the club hosted the Columbus Crew. Though the club earned a 3–1 victory against Columbus, United would only post one more victory throughout March and April, and consequently, fell towards the bottom of both the Eastern Conference and overall standings. Additionally, the chain of losses in April culminated with the club being eliminated during the U.S. Open Cup qualification propers. However, following their 4–1 league loss at Houston Dynamo, United would go unbeaten in their next five matches, winning two games and drawing thrice.

During the summer, with United only losing three matches, and either winning or drawing their other league fixtures, the club ascended in the standings and eventually, into a position that offered a berth into the wildcard round of the playoffs. United held a spot within the league's top ten overall standings throughout July and August. By September, the luck faded as the club ran into a bit of a slump.

The slump continued into September and October, and as the club made up matches in hand, narrow losses ultimately doomed United in reaching the playoffs, as a club hit a five match losing streak. Upon their fourth-straight loss, United was ultimately eliminated from postseason contention with a 1–1 draw against Portland Timbers on 15 October.

Late March

In a promotion for the upcoming season, Ben's Chili Bowl was renamed "Ben Olsen's Chili Bowl" on 17 March 2011

As the Challenge Cup concluded, United began to shift gears to the MLS regular season, and with that, naming their captain for the campaign. On 16 March 2011, Head Coach Ben Olsen named Dax McCarty the club captain.[31]

United opened the MLS regular season on 19 March 2011. Their campaign opened in strong fashion, amassing a 3–1 victory over Eastern Conference foes, Columbus Crew.[32][33] In the match, two of United's recent acquisitions tallied the three goals on the scoresheet; two for Charlie Davies, who came on as a 55th-minute substitute, and one for Josh Wolff.[33] The goals for Davies were his first since 12 August 2009;[33] when he scored for the U.S. national team in their 1–2 loss against Mexico in Estadio Azteca.[34] The lone blemish for the Black-and-Red that evening was a converted penalty kick by long-time Crew midfielder Robbie Rogers in the 83rd minute.[33]

Following their opening victory, the United traveled up north to take on New England Revolution on 26 March. The United would fall into a 2–0 hole early in the match,[35] with some citing poor officiating as the cause. A late penalty kick goal from Charlie Davies resulted in a 2–1 loss for the United.[36]

April

Colorado snowstorm

April opened with United playing the defending MLS Cup champions, Colorado Rapids at their home ground, DSG Park on 2 April. The match was almost postponed due to snow earlier in the day. However, the match was still called on, as a smaller crowd of around 9,000 braved the wintry conditions. The match saw Colorado take a first half lead off recently purchased Irish-international Caleb Folan. In the 67th minute of play, the United leveled the score thanks to a strike from Santino Quaranta, making it the first time in the season the defending MLS champions were tied, when the score was no 0-0. The tie was short-lived, as the Rapids immediately struck back with a 68th-minute goal from Scottish-international Jamie Smith. Ten minutes later, Folan gave the Rapids a 3–1 lead, and in injury time, Jamaican-international Omar Cummings gave a sucker punch goal, resulting in a 4–1 defeat for United to the Rapids.

By finishing in 16th in MLS last season, United were not guaranteed an MLS berth in the 2011 edition of the U.S. Open Cup. Therefore, they will have to qualify for one of two spots against teams that finished in 7th place or below in MLS last season.[37]

On 28 February 2011, MLS announced that for their qualification, United would play the Philadelphia Union in a play-in game for U.S. Open Cup qualification.[37] The decision for United to play the Union was due to the Union's proximity to United, and their relative record during the 2010 season.[37] The match will be played 6 April 2011 at the Maryland SoccerPlex. United hosts the Union due to winning a coin flip.[37] The winner of the D.C.-Philadelphia match will host New England Revolution in the second phase of MLS qualification.[37] That match is expected to be played in late April 2011.[37]

L.A. Galaxy match

In front of their largest league crowd in three years, United hosted the Los Angeles Galaxy on 9 April. In their previous meeting, the United took a lead midway in the second half, before Galaxy captain, Landon Donovan scored two goals late in the game to give the Galaxy a 2–1 win.[38] The match piqued interest across the region, as a crowd of 26,222 turned up for the game, United's largest league match crowd in over three years. The game itself ended in a 1–1 draw,[39] with the Galaxy scoring the first goal, a Mike Magee header off of a David Beckham corner in the 12th minute. United equalized late into match, in the second minute of stoppage time, thanks to a Charlie Davies penalty kick, his fourth in MLS league play and his fifth with D.C. United.[40][41]

The match itself swirled around controversy between Abiodun Okulaja's (the center referee) calls and officiating.[42][43] The most questionable calls were associated the severity of cards distributed to players and a late-match decision to award a penalty kick to the United, in which many claimed was a fake trip in the box.[43] One controversial call came from a reckless challenge by Galaxy midfielder, Beckham, to United forward, Josh Wolff in the 40th minute.[43] Following the referee stopping play to call the foul, a verbal exchange between Beckham and United's Santino Quaranta resulted in a swarm of United and Galaxy players coming in to push the two apart. While Quaranta was not carded for his exchange with Beckham, Beckham was carded for his foul against Wolff[43] in the 37th minute and Davies' penalty kick in the 91st. The goal received much national attention from the controversy surrounding the decision to award a penalty, and Davies' celebration for successfully converting the kick.[43] Subsequent to the match, center referee Abiodun Okulaja ejected Galaxy midfielder Jovan Kirovski for cursing at him while sniping his decision.[43]

Success in Toronto

On 16 April, United took on Toronto FC at Toronto's BMO Field. In the 2010 campaign, United were able to pull out a 1–0 victory against the Reds; this time, D.C. was able to earn a 3–0 victory at Toronto.[44] Their game against Toronto quickly went into good fortune for the Black-and-Red, as United found the back of the net twice within the first 10 minutes of play.[45] The opening goal was scored by Chris Pontius, which was his first in MLS league play since his hat trick against Seattle Sounders FC last June, prior to his calf injury. Pontius netted in the 5th minute as well as the 73rd minute of the match. Additionally, Charlie Davies netted his fifth MLS goal of the year, and his second in the run of play. Davies' goal was a follow up shot in the 9th minute following a strike from winger Josh Wolff. Additionally, the game saw United not only pull out their first away win of the season, but their first shout-out since the Carolina Challenge Cup; which was also Bill Hamid's first shutout in MLS play.[46]

"We put in a good effort and to not get anything is disappointing. We’ll put in the video and continue to work, for us it’s a process."

Josh Wolff, D.C. United forward, when asked about United's lack of scoring opportunities in their 4–0 loss to New York.[47]

Atlantic Cup drubbing

The following Thursday, 22 April, United hosted their longtime rivals, Red Bull New York.[48] Broadcast on ESPN2, it was United's first televised match on the network this year. In the 12th minute of play, a Luke Rodgers cross to Red Bulls striker, Thierry Henry led to the first goal for New York. Henry scored his third goal of the season, and the second of the match in the 38th minute of play, doubling New York's lead.[48] Heading into halftime, Olsen replaced club captain, McCarty in for DP, Branko Bošković at halftime.[48] Bošković, praised for his play in the match, had two shots on goal that were deflected off of the crossbar. In the 64th minute, Bošković sent a free kick hurdling towards the upper right post, only to be denied by the crossbar. Throughout a majority of the second half United dominated the Red Bulls in possession, but failed time and time again to score. A counterattack in the 72nd minute, led by Estonian international, Joel Lindpere gave New York a 3–0 advantage over United.[48] Subsequently, Bošković had his third shot on goal deflect off the bar. American prospect, Juan Agudelo netted in injury time for the Red Bulls, giving the club a 4–0 win over United.[49] The loss for United was their worst ever home loss against New York, and their worst loss at home since 2005, when the team lost 4–0 to Chicago Fire in an MLS Cup quarterfinal leg.[48][50]

Following the club's 4–0 home defeat, United returned to Open Cup play, where they took on New England Revolution in the MLS qualification semifinals.[51] Hosted at Maryland SoccerPlex in Boyds, the Revolution quickly got off to a 2–0 lead, thanks to a pair of goals from Revolution midfielder Kheli Dube.[51] Dube scored in 37th and 47th minutes of play. Twenty minutes following Dube's second goal, Virginia-native Alan Koger gave the Revs a 3–0 lead. Shortly thereafter, United's Branko Bošković scored his first two goals of 2011 to trim the lead down to one goal.[51] The late rally, however, proved to be too little, too late as the Revolution defeated United 3–2. Consequently, it was the first time since 2002 that United did not qualify into the main tournament propers of the Open Cup.[52]

Houston defeat, U.S. Open Cup elimination

United's woes continued in their final match of April, where they traveled south to take on Houston Dynamo on 29 April. United was routed 4–1 in the match, making them have a league-worst 16 goals conceded.[53] However, with 10 goals scored, United was jointly tied for second in the league for goals scored on.[53] The Orange Crush came out on a roaring start, as Dynamo-striker Will Bruin netted in the fourth minute of play. In the 39th minute, United defender Marc Burch scored off a complex free kick that caused the Dynamo defense to scramble, tallying his first goal of 2011.[54] The parity was short-lived, as Bruin would regain the lead for Houston two minutes later off of a header from Brad Davis cross. Bruin would complete his hat trick in the 57th minute to give Dynamo a commanding 3–1 lead. Houston's Cam Weaver came in to add a buffer to the lead in the 62nd minute.[55]

May

Bošković injury

"It's a nightmare. Branko can’t believe it. He’s sad and shocked."

Dejan Drobnjak, Branko Bošković's agent, when finding out about Bošković's torn ACL injury.[56]

During the month of May, D.C. United went undefeated in their four Major League Soccer regular season matches, winning and drawing two games apiece. While the club had success on the field, the team suffered with several injuries, including the club's lone Designated Player, Branko Bošković. Bošković, who left in the team's U.S. Open Cup qualifier loss to New England,[56] was revealed to have a torn Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his right thigh.[57] Towards the end of the month, United hosted defending Dutch champions, Ajax in a friendly match, in which United lost.

Bošković's injury was released publicly on 1 May, only three days before their midweek fixture against Seattle Sounders FC. D.C. United, who had never defeated Seattle at home, was coming off a two-match winning streak. The match ended in United's favor, as goals from Josh Wolff and Charlie Davies helped United earn a 2–1 victory.[58] Playing their third match within a week, United hosted 2010 MLS Cup-finalists, FC Dallas on 7 May. Like United, Dallas was suffering from a slew of injuries, most notably forward David Ferreira who broke his ankle in Dallas' 2–1 away victory at Vancouver. The game itself ended in a scoreless tie, though United out shot Dallas 5–2 in total shots on frame.[59]

Rapids draw, Ajax friendly loss

Within a week, United squared off in their return match against the defending league champions, Colorado Rapids. The 14 May affair ended in a 1–1 draw between the two camps as the Rapids' Drew Moor netted a 23rd-minute brace to give the visitors an advantage. The hosts, United, continued to press throughout the match, dominating possession. In the 56th minute, what seemed to be a certain foul in the box for a penalty from Colorado's Jeff Lorentowictz on D.C.'s Joseph Ngwenya was waved off, resulting in heavy dissent from both the players and the bench of United.[60] The incident was seemingly hindered in the 62nd minute when the Rapids' Kosuke Kimura collided with United's Chris Pontius. Pontius would subsequently score from the penalty spot, leveling the scoreline and thus giving United a draw.[60]

Santino Quaranta dribbling the ball during the international friendly against AFC Ajax

During the week of 22 May, United had a bye week from league play, which allowed the club to schedule a home friendly against the defending Dutch champions, AFC Ajax of Amsterdam. The previous week, Ajax had tallied a 3–1 win over Twente to secure the Dutch title for an unprecedented 30th time, their first since 2004. The Amsterdamers notched an early strike in the 10th minute thanks to forward, and Serbian international, Miralem Sulejmani. The Black-and-Red managed to make up for the early setback thanks to a 58th-minute cross from Ngwenya to newly drafted Blake Brettschneider, leveling the match at one apiece. However, the match ended in Ajax's favor over United as the Amsterdammers tallied a final goal in the 87th minute courtesy of midfielder Vurnon Anita.

Victory at Jeld-Wen

D.C. United became the first MLS side to defeat the MLS Portland Timbers club at Jeld-Wen Field on 29 May.

Heading into Memorial Day Weekend, United wrapped up May with the opening match of their two-game West Coast road trip on 29 May at Jeld-Wen Field to take on the Portland Timbers. The Timbers, who held a 5–3–2 record prior to the match had won every single match at home during MLS play. United successfully ended that home streak with a 3–2 victory over the Timbers, thanks to goals from Perry Kitchen, his first professional goal in his career, as well as Chris Pontius and Josh Wolff.[61] In the match, Kitchen opened the scoring for United with a 13th minute half-volley thanks to a redirected header from Dejan Jakovic. While United were able to hold the 1–0 lead well into the second half of play, a chain of contentious decisions from center official Geoff Gamble, but primarily linesmen Eric Proctor.[61] It was only the second MLS match that Gamble officiated, with his first coming on the previous weekend. In the 67th minute of play, United conceded a penalty kick to the Timbers. United goalkeeper, Bill Hamid initially saved Timbers striker Kenny Cooper's first penalty shot, only for the shot to be retaken.[62] Proctor flagged for a retaking of the kick claiming that Hamid stepping off his line before the kick was taken, an infraction of the rules. The contrasting argument from Hamid, as well as other United players, was that Cooper stutter-stepped before taking the ball, which is illegal in the Laws of the Game. Nevertheless, it was ruled that a second retake would be taken, again by Cooper. Hamid consecutively saved the shot, only for Proctor to again rule that Hamid repeated the same original infraction.[62] The ruling caused Hamid to storm over to Proctor in disdain for his decision, consequently earning Hamid a yellow card for dissent. For the third shot on the mark, Timbers captain Jack Jewsbury took the shot and buried it in the bottom left-hand post, leveling the score at 1–1. The stalemate was tentative, as Diego Chara of the Timbers conceded a penalty in the box when he mistimed a slide tackle on Pontius, leading to a handball. Pontius scored his second penalty of the season, and his second consecutive in league play to give United the 2–1 advantage. A quarter of an hour later, Wolff notched a goal, extending United's lead in the 85th minute. The Timbers' Jorge Perlaza scored a consolation goal in the 88th minute of play, but it would fail to be enough.[63]

June

Third kit debut, L.A. "family affair"

Dax McCarty dribbles the ball during his final match with United on 25 June 2011 against the Houston Dynamo.

The beginning of June was heralded by the debut of United's third kit, which debuted in the opening match of the month. The new third kit, which featured a primary color of red, with black accents debuted in the 3 June away fixture at Los Angeles Galaxy.[64] June also saw a wave of controversy arrive involving Charlie Davies and deceiving match officials during the run of play, causing Davies to be fined by MLS. As the international transfer window neared, United made an unanticipated, blockbuster trade with their Atlantic Cup rivals, New York Red Bulls on 27 June. On the pitch, however, United failed to win any matches during the month, tallying three draws and a loss during the month.

The opening match of June was deemed a "family affair" by the media, due to the close relationship between Galaxy manager, Bruce Arena and United manager, Ben Olsen. Beforehand, Arena coached Olsen on the dynasty D.C. United squad of the late 1990s and on the United States national team into the mid 2000s. Continuing their unbeaten streak from May, United earned a 1–1 draw. With the draw, United tentatively moved into third place in the Eastern Conference, ahead of Columbus Crew.

In spite of the strong finish at Los Angeles, who led the Western Conference and overall standings at the time, United failed to win any matches during the month of June, amassing three subsequent draws and a loss. The loss would come the following week on 11 June, where they would lose at home against San Jose Earthquakes.[65][66] Consequently, the loss, along with a Columbus victory, saw United fall to fourth in the conference and 11th in the overall standings.[67]

Davies controversy in Salt Lake

"He just kicked it away and jumped over. It's almost laughable."

Real Salt Lake defender Chris Wingert, when asked about the controversial foul on Davies.[68]

On 16 June, United embarked for Salt Lake City for an 18 June away game at Real Salt Lake. Played at Rio Tinto Stadium, the venue has been considered by fans and media alike to be one of the most hostile environments in MLS and in North American to play in. In franchise history, United had not only failed to win in Rio Tinto, but failed to earn a point in the stadium. In spite of Salt Lake's struggling form, and United's improved form, many still expected Real to defeat United, having the home field advantage and a stronger roster. The 18 June fixture played to a 1–1 tie thanks to penalty kicks from Salt Lake's Fabian Espindola and United's Charlie Davies.[69] The match was marred for its extremely physical, sometimes ruthless play, as well as the lack of discipline imposed by center referee, Terry Vaughn, who only gave one yellow card the entire match. Espindola scored the opening goal in the 38th minute. The penalty was drawn when Salt Lake captain, Kyle Beckerman dribbled within the goal box. As Beckerman dribbled inwards, United's Clyde Simms mistime a slide tackle that missed Beckerman, but resulted in his right wrist deflecting Beckerman's pass into the box. In the second half, United continued to control a majority of the ball position, only to see Chris Pontius's shot deflect off the crossbar in the 53rd minute. Controversy further ignited on what many fans and journalists declared a dive from United's Davies, who drew a penalty kick in the 85th minute, following a breakaway counterattack. The declaration was near universal[68] as video replay[70][71] and still frames[72] of the incident in the penalty box revealed Davies falling in a diving motion prior to Salt Lake defender, Chris Wingert making any contact with Davies, only to do so once Davies had already fallen down. In spite of this, center official Terry Vaughn whistled it to be a penalty kick. Met with heavy jeers at Rio Tinto, Davies successfully bagged the match tying goal, in spite of the fact that Salt Lake's goalkeeper, a former United player, Nick Rimando, guessed the correct way. In the 92nd minute, during stoppage time, Salt Lake's Jamison Olave recklessly fouled United's Blake Brettschneider to draw a final set piece, possibly to allow United to earn a shocking road win in Salt Lake. However, Najar's free kick was successfully passed to Pontius, whose shot deflected off the crossbar, allowing the match to remain leveled at one apiece. At the match's end heavy boos were ignited by the Salt Lake crowd, primarily directed towards the officiating. The match was deemed as one of the most reckless matches of 2011.

Celebrity golf tournament, McCarty–De Rosario trade

On 20 June, United hosted its annual celebrity tournament.[73] That same day, the club made more headlines when they announced that Fred would be allowed to join Australian A-League side, Melbourne Heart on a summer transfer in July.[74] The exact date was not disclosed, although mid-season transfer window in MLS opens on 15 July and closes 31 August.[74]

One week later, United made national headlines following an unexpected trade with their Atlantic Cup rivals, Red Bull New York. The trade, announced on 27 June, involved United acquiring New York midfielder, Dwayne De Rosario in exchange for United central midfielder, Dax McCarty.[75]

July

Dwayne De Rosario during his first match with United against the Philadelphia Union

The month of July began with D.C. United announcing a new assistant coach, as well as playing two nearby Eastern Conference rivals. On 1 July, the franchise announced that Dutch manager Sonny Silooy was hired as an assistant coach for the senior team.[76] Three days later, United played budding rivals, Philadelphia Union at home. The match, ending in a 2–2 tie saw newcomer Dwayne De Rosario make an assist to Josh Wolff as well as midfielder Andy Najar score a long range volley from 35 yards.

Victory in New York, Atlantic Cup defeat

The following week, United traveled up the Interstate 95 corridor to take on their Atlantic Cup rivals, Red Bull New York. The Red Bulls, previously thrashed United 4–0 in April, and looked to be heavy favorites by fans and the media alike, especially coming off a 5–0 home win over Toronto. During the 61st minute of play, De Rosario scored against his former club to give United a 1–0 advantage, which ended up being the match-winning goal. The win means that the Red Bulls have failed to defeat United at home since 2008.[77] In spite of the win, United failed to win the Atlantic Cup trophy for the second consecutive year, losing 4–1 on aggregate. However, despite winning the Cup for the second straight year, Red Bulls players found the consolation prize as nothing worth meriting about.[78] D.C. continued their streak the following week, drawing 0–0 to FC Dallas at Pizza Hut Park.[79]

United concluded July with a 2–0 victory over the San Jose Earthquakes at Buck Shaw Stadium. De Rosario scored both goals.

August

The fifth month into D.C. United's regular season campaign marked the return of several players whom were previously injured throughout the season. Some key players included Dejan Jakovic, Kurt Morsink and Santino Quaranta. On the field, D.C. United was scheduled to host Canada's two MLS franchises, Toronto FC and Vancouver Whitecaps FC, respectively. While recent United acquisition, and former Toronto captain, Dwayne De Rosario scored a hat trick against his former club, a shorthanded United ended up drawing 3–3 against Toronto. The following weekend, United posted a 4–0 thrashing of last-place Vancouver, earning their largest home victory since 2008.

Upon their homestance against the Canadian teams, United hit the road for matches at Eastern Conference rivals, Chicago Fire and Sporting Kansas City. A lone goal in the 73rd minute from United's Josh Wolff gave the team a point against Chicago, while an early goal from Sporting's Omar Bravo consequently ended in a 1–0 defeat against Kansas City, making it the first time since 27 April that United lost on the road.

Originally, United was expecting to conclude their competitive play on 27 August, at home to the Portland Timbers, but due to the effects of Hurricane Irene, the match was rescheduled from 7:30 pm to 2:30 pm. Two days prior to the match itself, the club and the MLS League Committee agreed to postpone the match to a later date. It was later confirmed that the match would be played in October.

September

With the Portland match being postponed, it resulted in a three-week span of no competitive play for D.C. United. To give his players some additional rest and to ease the tensions in training sessions, head coach Ben Olsen granted the players and staff a four-week break over Labor Day Weekend. On 6 September, United players and staff rejoined one another in training, four days ahead of their trip to Los Angeles for their road fixture against Chivas USA. The 10 September match led to a 3–0 victory for United, earning their largest road victory since April. Charlie Davies netted a hat trick, scoring thrice in the run of play, each goal coming off of an assist from Chris Pontius. However, the large victory paid a devastating price, as Pontius collided with ??? in the 83rd minute, breaking his leg, and consequently missing the remainder of the season. The road swing concluded with a 3–0 loss to Seattle Sounders.

Following the defeat to Seattle, United had a two-match homestand against 2005 expansion teams, Chivas USA and Real Salt Lake. Against Chivas USA, United went up 2–0 before conceding twice to settle for a 2–2 draw. Against Real Salt Lake, Dwayne De Rosario netted a hat trick in the match within the first 31 minutes, scoring the fastest hat trick in MLS history, earning him Player of the Week honors. In addition to De Rosario's three goals, he assisted to Andy Najar, and the club won 4–1 over Salt Lake.[80]

The month of competitive matches ended on 29 September with a trip to their budding I-95 rivals, Philadelphia Union, where United lost 3–2.[81]

October

Rich Balchan challenging Dwayne De Rosario at Columbus Crew Stadium

Entering the final month of the regular season, the race for the 2011 MLS Cup Playoffs began to heat up. In their away fixture at Columbus Crew, United lost 1–2, with United's Daniel Woolard scoring the lone goal for the club. It was the first time since 29 April that the team lost consecutive matches. Consequently, the club remained outside of the playoff race.[82] United in need of points, lost their third-straight match on the road to Vancouver Whitecaps, 2–1.[83]

On 15 October, United lost their fourth-consecutive match, making it their longest losing streak since August 2010. Playing Chicago, United took a 1–0 lead in the 90th minute thanks to a penalty kick from De Rosario. The slight goal lead seemed certain to return United back into a playoff position for only Chicago's Sebastián Grazzini and Diego Cháves to score for the Fire in the third and fifth minutes of stoppage time, respectively. Despite the loss, United barely remained in the playoff chance. In order for the club to earn a berth in the playoffs, they will need New York to lose or draw at home to Philadelphia, while United must win their final two matches. Doing so would require winning consecutive matches, something United has not done since June 2009.

D.C. United will conclude the regular season by hosting the Portland Timbers on 19 October and Sporting Kansas City on 22 October.

Competitions

Key

      Win       Draw       Loss

Preseason

Carolina Challenge Cup

Major League Soccer

Matches

MLS Reserve League

MLS Reserve League
Results

U.S. Open Cup

Mid-season exhibitions

Club information

Roster

As of 3 August 2011.[85]

No. Name Nationality Position Date of Birth (Age) Signed From
Goalkeepers
1 Steve Cronin United States GK May 28, 1983 United States Portland
28 Bill Hamid United States GK November 25, 1990 The Academy
31 Joe Willis United States GK August 10, 1988 United States University of Denver
Defenders
2 Brandon McDonald United States CB January 16, 1986 United States San Jose Earthquakes
4 Marc Burch United States LB May 7, 1984 United States Columbus Crew
5 Dejan Jakovic Canada CB July 16, 1985 Serbia Red Star
12 Jed Zayner United States RB December 13, 1984 United States Columbus Crew
15 Ethan White United States CB January 1, 1991 United States University of Maryland
18 Devon McTavish United States RB August 8, 1984 United States West Virginia University
21 Daniel Woolard United States LB May 22, 1984 United States Carolina RailHawks
22 Chris Korb United States RB/LB October 8, 1987 United States Akron University
23 Perry Kitchen United States CB/RB February 29, 1992 United States Akron University
Midfielders
3 Austin da Luz United States LM October 9, 1987 United States New York Red Bulls
6 Kurt Morsink United States DM June 27, 1984 United States Sporting Kansas City
20 Stephen King United States AM March 6, 1986 United States Seattle Sounders
8 Branko Bošković Montenegro AM June 21, 1980 Austria Rapid Wien
14 Andy Najar Honduras RM/AM March 16, 1993 The Academy
17 Conor Shanosky United States CM/DM December 13, 1991 The Academy
19 Clyde Simms United States CM August 21, 1982 United States Richmond Kickers
24 Brandon Barklage United States RM November 2, 1986 United States Saint Louis University
25 Santino Quaranta United States RM October 14, 1984 United States New York Red Bulls
Forwards
9 Charlie Davies United States ST June 25, 1986 France Sochaux (on loan through 31 Dec 2011)
11 Joseph Ngwenya Zimbabwe ST March 30, 1981 United States Houston Dynamo
13 Chris Pontius United States ST/LW May 12, 1987 United States UC Santa Barbara
16 Josh Wolff United States ST February 25, 1977 United States Sporting Kansas City
29 Blake Brettschneider United States ST April 11, 1989 United States University of South Carolina
7 Dwayne De Rosario Canada ST/AM May 15, 1978 United States New York Red Bulls

Coaching staff

Position Staff
Head Coach United States Ben Olsen
Asst. Coach United States Chad Ashton
Asst. Coach Netherlands Sonny Silooy
Asst. Coach & Goalkeeping Coach Canada Pat Onstad
General Manager United States Dave Kasper
Special Projects Manager United States Bryan Namoff
Team Administrator Peru Francisco Tobar
Equipment Manager United States David Brauzer
Head Athletic Trainer United States Brian Goodstein
Asst. Athletic Trainer / Asst. Strength Coach Canada Pete Calabrese
Assistant, Team Operations Costa Rica Steve Olivarez
Physical Therapist Bolivia Gabriel Manoel
Asst. Equipment Manager England Tim Hall

Last updated: 3 August 2011
Source: D.C. United Official Website

International players

The following players on the club have received international call-ups during the season or within the previous year:

Nation Player Position Last call-up
 CanadaDwayne De RosarioMFv.  Panama; 14 June 2011
Dejan JakovicDFv.  Ecuador; 1 June 2011
 MontenegroBranko BoškovićMFv.  England; 12 October 2010
 HondurasAndy NajarMFv.  Colombia; 3 September 2011
 United StatesBill HamidGKv.  Costa Rica; 2 September 2011
Chris PontiusFWv.  Costa Rica; 2 September 2011
Josh WolffFWv.  Chile; 22 January 2011
 United States U-20Perry KitchenDFv.  Guatemala U-20

Standings

Team GP W D L GF GA GD Pts
1 Los Angeles Galaxy 34 19 10 5 48 28
20
67
2 Seattle Sounders 34 18 9 7 56 37
19
63
3 Real Salt Lake 34 15 8 11 44 36
8
53
4 Dallas 34 15 7 12 42 39
3
52
5 Sporting Kansas City 34 13 12 9 50 40
10
51
6 Colorado Rapids 34 12 13 9 44 41
3
49
7 Houston Dynamo 34 12 13 9 45 41
4
49
8 Philadelphia Union 34 11 15 8 44 36
8
48
9 Columbus Crew 34 13 8 13 43 44 −4 47
10 New York Red Bulls 34 10 16 8 50 44
6
46
11 Chicago Fire 34 9 16 9 46 15
1
43
12 Portland Timbers 34 11 9 14 40 48 −8 42
13 D.C. United 34 9 12 13 49 52 −3 39
14 San Jose Earthquakes 34 8 14 12 40 45 −5 38
15 Chivas USA 34 8 12 14 41 43 −2 36
16 Toronto FC 34 6 15 13 36 59 −23 33
17 New England Revolution 34 5 13 16 38 58 −20 28
18 Vancouver Whitecaps 34 6 10 18 35 55 −20 28
Supporters' Shield winners, qualifies for the 2012–13 CONCACAF Champions League and the 2011 MLS Cup Playoffs
Qualifies for 2012–13 CONCACAF Champions League and the 2011 MLS Cup Playoffs
Qualifies for the 2011 MLS Cup Playoffs
Recipients of the Wooden Spoon
Last updated: 16:57, 17 December 2011 (UTC)

Results summary

OverallHomeAway
PldWDLGFGAGDPtsWDLGFGAGDWDLGFGAGD
28 9 11 8 43 41 +2 38 4 7 3 26 22 +4 5 4 5 17 19 −2

Last updated: 25 September 2011.
Source: MLSSoccer.com

Results by round

Round12345678910111213141516171819202122232425262728293031323334
GroundHAAHAHAHHHAAHAHHAAHAHHAAAAHHAAAHHH
Result W L L D W L L W D D W D L D D D W D L W D W D L W L D W L L L L D L
Conference 1 5 8 9 5 5 7 5 5 6 3 3 4 3 5 5 4 4 6 5 5 4 3 5 4 5 4 4 5 5 6 6 6 7
Overall 2 8 13 15 8 9 14 11 12 14 8 10 12 12 11 11 9 9 12 10 10 9 8 10 9 10 9 9 11 11 12 12 13 13

Last updated: 19 October 2011.
Source: MLSSoccer.com
Ground: A = Away; H = Home. Result: T = Tie; L = Loss; W = Win; P = Postponed.

Statistics

Competitions table

Competition Started roundCurrent
position / round		 Final
position / round		 First match Last match
MLS —— 34 March 19October 22
U.S. Open Cup Qualifier— Qualification semifinals April 6April 28
Carolina Challenge Cup 3rd— 1st March 5March 12

Last updated: July 31, 2011
Source: Competitions

MLS regular season

Field players

Nat No. Player Pos GP GS Min. G A SHTS SOG FC FS Red card
United States2McDonaldBrandon McDonald DF13131139004015720
Uruguay3BrasescoRodrigo Brasesco[A] DF3215500000010
United States3Da LuzAustin da Luz DF8231100723020
United States4BurchMarc Burch DF12878711216620
Canada5JakovicDejan Jakovic DF15151324002118931
Costa Rica6MorsinkKurt Morsink[B] MF2215700000010
Canada7De RosarioDwayne De Rosario MF131211661065526252010
Montenegro8BoskovicBranko Bošković[B] MF4112400821000
United States9DaviesCharlie Davies FW221613881133117222130
United States10McCartyDax McCarty[A] MF131194602102121310
Zimbabwe11NgwenyaJoseph Ngwenya FW1465720011619810
United States12ZaynerJed Zayner[B] DF4431101000000
United States13PontiusChris Pontius[B] FW25252144755320183320
Honduras14NajarAndy Najar MF25221982464016333211
United States15WhiteEthan White DF21181659105414130
United States16WolffJosh Wolff FW24191545561617242810
United States19SimmsClyde Simms MF25252132008117510
United States20KingStephen King MF15771710936800
United States21WoolardDaniel Woolard DF212118680050141700
United States22KorbChris Korb[B] DF7757002000000
United States23KitchenPerry Kitchen DF252421861072242110
United States24BarklageBrandon Barklage DF403800211000
United States25QuarantaSantino Quaranta MF1577521011318921
Brazil27FredFred[A] MF17559601101141030
United States29BrettschneiderBlake Brettschneider[B] FW1286441215412710

Last updated: September 26, 2011
Source: D.C. United

Goalkeepers

Nat No. Player GP GS Min. SO GA SOG SV SV % GAA PG PA W L T
United States1CroninSteve Cronin 20126041060.62.8600002
Canada20OnstadPat Onstad 33270071680.52.3322120
United States28HamidBill Hamid 2222185272683560.6751.2644749
United States31WillisJoe Willis 332701416120.751.3300120

Last updated: September 26, 2011
Source: D.C. United

U.S. Open Cup

Field players

Nat No. Player Pos GP GS Min. G A SHTS SOG FC FS Red card
United States2McDonaldBrandon McDonald DF00000000000
Uruguay3BrasescoRodrigo Brasesco[A] DF114100000000
United States3Da LuzAustin da Luz DF00000000000
United States4BurchMarc Burch DF00000000000
Canada5JakovicDejan Jakovic DF107900000000
Costa Rica6MorsinkKurt Morsink[B] MF00000000000
Canada7De RosarioDwayne De Rosario MF00000000000
Montenegro8BoskovicBranko Bošković[B] MF1112020000000
United States9DaviesCharlie Davies FW00000000000
United States10McCartyDax McCarty[A] MF00000000000
Zimbabwe11NgwenyaJoseph Ngwenya FW1112001000000
United States12ZaynerJed Zayner[B] DF00000000000
United States13PontiusChris Pontius[B] FW103100000000
Honduras14NajarAndy Najar MF1112000000000
United States15WhiteEthan White DF1112000000000
United States16WolffJosh Wolff FW1112010000000
United States19SimmsClyde Simms MF00000000000
United States20KingStephen King MF1112000000000
United States21WoolardDaniel Woolard DF1112000000000
United States22KorbChris Korb[B] DF00000000000
United States23KitchenPerry Kitchen DF00000000000
United States24BarklageBrandon Barklage DF11000000000
United States25QuarantaSantino Quaranta MF00000000000
Brazil27FredFred[A] MF118900000000
United States29BrettschneiderBlake Brettschneider[B] FW00000000000

Last updated: October 24, 2011
Source: D.C. United match reports

Goalkeepers

Nat No. Player GP GS Min. SO GA SOG SV SV % GAA PG PA W L T
United States1CroninSteve Cronin 20126041060.62.8600002
Canada20OnstadPat Onstad 33270071680.52.3322120
United States28HamidBill Hamid 2222185272683560.6751.2644749
United States31WillisJoe Willis 332701416120.751.3300120

Last updated: October 24, 2011
Source: D.C. United match reports

Recognition

MLS Honors

Award Player Notes
Most Valuable Player Canada Dwayne De Rosario
Golden Boot Canada Dwayne De Rosario 16 goals

MLS Player of the Month

Month Player Club Link
August Canada Dwayne De Rosario D.C. United 3G 2A

MLS Player of the Week

Week Player Week's Statline
20 Canada Dwayne De Rosario 2G (53', 63')
21 Canada Dwayne De Rosario 3G (19', 64', 87')
22 United States Chris Pontius 2G (47+', 70')
25&26 United States Charlie Davies 3G (11', 14', 66')
28 Canada Dwayne De Rosario 3G (22', 27', 31')

MLS Best XI of the Week

Week Player Opponent(s) Link
1 United States Ben Olsen Columbus Crew Team of the Week
5 United States Chris Pontius Toronto FC Team of the Week
5 United States Ethan White Toronto FC Team of the Week
8 United States Charlie Davies Seattle Team of the Week
11 Canada Dejan Jakovic Portland Team of the Week
12 United States Perry Kitchen Los Angeles Team of the Week
14 United States Chris Pontius Real Salt Lake Team of the Week
17 United States Ben Olsen New York Team of the Week
18 United States Ben Olsen FC Dallas Team of the Week
20 Canada Dwayne De Rosario San Jose Team of the Week
21 Canada Dwayne De Rosario Toronto FC Team of the Week
22 Canada Dwayne De Rosario Vancouver Team of the Week
22 United States Chris Pontius Vancouver Team of the Week
26 United States Perry Kitchen Chivas USA Team of the Week
26 Canada Dwayne De Rosario Chivas USA Team of the Week
26 United States Charlie Davies Chivas USA Team of the Week
26 United States Chris Pontius Chivas USA Team of the Week
26 United States Ben Olsen Chivas USA Team of the Week
28 Canada Dwayne De Rosario Real Salt Lake Team of the Week
28 Honduras Andy Najar Real Salt Lake Team of the Week
28 United States Stephen King Real Salt Lake Team of the Week

MLS All-Stars 2011

Position Player Note
MF Canada Dwayne De Rosario Press Selection[86]

Footnotes

A ^ : Player left the club in the middle of the season
B ^ : Player was injured during the campaign

Transfers

In

No. Pos. Player Transferred from Fee/Notes Date Source
10 MF United States Dax McCarty United States Portland Timbers Traded for Rodney Wallace 24 November 2010 [87]
11 FW Zimbabwe Joseph Ngwenya United States Houston Dynamo Selected in the MLS Re-Entry Draft 8 December 2010 [88]
15 DF United States Ethan White United States D.C. United Academy Homegrown contract 14 December 2010 [89]
16 DF United States Josh Wolff United States Sporting Kansas City Selected in the MLS Re-Entry Draft 15 December 2010 [90]
1 GK United States Steve Cronin United States Portland Timbers Part of Troy Perkins deal 17 December 2010 [91]
21 DF United States Daniel Woolard United States Carolina RailHawks Free transfer 6 January 2011 [92]
23 DF United States Perry Kitchen United States Akron Zips[A] Selected in the 2011 MLS SuperDraft 6 January 2011 [92]
27 MF Brazil Fred United States New England Revolution Part of 2012 SuperDraft deal 18 February 2011 [93]
22 DF United States Chris Korb United States Akron Zips[A] Selected in the 2011 MLS SuperDraft 1 March 2011 [94]
29 DF United States Blake Brettschneider United States South Carolina Gamecocks[A] Selected in the 2011 MLS Supplemental Draft 3 March 2011 [95]
20 GK Canada Pat Onstad United States Houston Dynamo Free transfer 9 March 2011 [96]
31 GK United States Joe Willis United States Denver Pioneers Free transfer 16 March 2011 [97]
24 MF United States Brandon Barklage[C] Free agent Free transfer 25 March 2011 [98]
7 MF Canada Dwayne De Rosario United States New York Red Bulls Part of Dax McCarty deal 27 June 2011 [99]
2 DF United States Brandon McDonald United States San Jose Earthquakes Undisclosed 27 June 2011 [100]
3 MF United States Austin da Luz United States New York Red Bulls Traded for international roster spot 18 July 2011 [100]

Out

No. Pos. Player Transferred to Fee/Notes Date Source
99 FW Bolivia Jaime Moreno Retired Free transfer 24 October 2010
15 FW Australia Danny Allsopp Australia Melbourne Victory Free transfer 15 November 2010 [101]
16 DF United States Jordan Graye United States Portland Timbers Acquired through MLS Expansion Draft 15 November 2010 [102]
16 MF Costa Rica Rodney Wallace United States Portland Timbers Traded for 2011 SuperDraft pick 24 November 2010
4 DF Bolivia Juan Peña Retired Released 2 December 2010 [103]
15 DF United States Barry Rice United States Akron Summit Assault Released 2 December 2010 [103]
11 DF Spain Carlos Varela Switzerland Servette Released 2 December 2010 [103]
24 MF United States Brandon Barklage[C] United States D.C. United Free transfer 6 December 2010 [103]
23 GK United States Troy Perkins United States Portland Timbers Part of Steve Cronin deal 17 December 2010 [91]
7 FW United States Adam Cristman United States Los Angeles Galaxy Traded for Supplemental Draft picks 11 January 2011 [104]
2 DF Trinidad and Tobago Julius James United States Columbus Crew Waived 17 February 2011 [26]
20 GK Canada Pat Onstad Retired Free transfer 31 May 2011 [105]
10 MF United States Dax McCarty United States New York Red Bulls Traded for Dwayne De Rosario 27 June 2011 [99]
30 MF Brazil Junior Carreiro Waived 29 June 2011 [106]
27 MF Brazil Fred Australia Melbourne Heart Free transfer 21 July 2011 [107]

Loan in

No. Pos. Player Loaned from Start End Source
3 DF Uruguay Rodrigo Brasesco Uruguay Racing Montevideo 10 January 2011 14 June 2011 [108][109]
9 FW United States Charlie Davies France Sochaux 15 February 2011 1 December 2011 [110]

Loan out

No. Pos. Player Loaned to Start End Source
33 MF United States Conor Shanosky United States Harrisburg City Islanders 15 July 2011 31 December 2011 [111]

Miscellany

Allocation ranking

D.C. United is in the No. 15 position in the MLS Allocation Ranking. The allocation ranking is the mechanism used to determine which MLS club has first priority to acquire a U.S. National Team player who signs with MLS after playing abroad, or a former MLS player who returns to the league after having gone to a club abroad for a transfer fee. D.C. United started 2011 ranked No. 3 on the allocation list and used its ranking to acquire Charlie Davies. A ranking can be traded, provided that part of the compensation received in return is another club’s ranking.[112]

International roster spots

D.C. United has five international roster spots, the fewest of any MLS club. Each club in Major League Soccer is allocated eight international roster spots, which can be traded. D.C. United traded one spot to Kansas City on 3 February 2010 for use during the 2010 and 2011 seasons,[113] traded another spot to Los Angeles Galaxy on 17 February 2011 for use during the 2011 and 2012 seasons,[114] and traded another spot to New York Red Bulls on 16 July 2011 for use during the remainder of the 2011 season.[115] The remaining roster slots must belong to domestic players. For clubs based in the United States, a domestic player is either a U.S. citizen, a permanent resident (green card holder) or the holder of other special status (e.g., refugee or asylum status).[112]

As of 12 February, United have 21 American players on their roster. This is the most of any MLS club.

Future draft pick trades

Acquired
Year Draft Round Traded from Ref.
Traded
Year Draft Round Traded to Ref.
2012SuperDraftRound 2Columbus Crew
2012SuperDraftRound 3Houston Dynamo
2013SuperDraftRound 2New England Revolution

References

Footnotes
A ^ : College soccer team.
B ^ : Waived due lack of international roster spots
C ^ : Brandon Barklage's contract originally expired at the end of the 2010 season, and the club did not renew the contract. He re-signed with the club the following spring after a trial.
Citations
  1. 1 2 "Ben Olsen named D.C. United Head Coach". 29 November 2010. Retrieved 30 November 2010.
  2. ↑ Steven Goff (24 October 2010). "D.C. United rewind: 3–2 loss to Toronto FC". Soccer Insider. The Washington Post. Retrieved 18 October 2011.
  3. ↑ Steven Goff (23 October 2010). "Jaime Moreno scores a goal in his final game, but D.C. United clinches its worst season with 3–2 loss to Toronto FC". The Washington Post. Retrieved 17 October 2011.
  4. ↑ Steven Goff (25 October 2010). "MLS playoff matchups, regular season honors, Jaime Moreno maintains all-time scoring title". Soccer Insider. The Washington Post. Retrieved 18 October 2011.
  5. ↑ Steve Goff (24 November 2010). "D.C. United acquires midfielder Dax McCarty from Portland Timbers for defender Rodney Wallace". The Washington Post. Retrieved 3 June 2011.
  6. ↑ "D.C. United acquires midfielder Dax McCarty". D.C. United. dcunited.com. 24 November 2010. Archived from the original on 15 June 2011. Retrieved 3 June 2011.
  7. ↑ Steve Goff (29 November 2010). "News & notes from D.C. United news conference introducing Ben Olsen as the head coach". The Washington Post. Retrieved 3 June 2011.
  8. ↑ "D.C. United declines options on four players". D.C. United. 2 December 2010. Archived from the original on 9 July 2011. Retrieved 3 June 2011.
  9. ↑ "Pat Onstad joins D.C. United coaching staff". D.C. United. dcunited.com. 21 December 2010. Archived from the original on 15 June 2011. Retrieved 3 June 2011.
  10. ↑ Steven Goff (7 May 2011). "D.C. United, MLS salaries". The Washington Post. Soccer Insider. Retrieved 3 June 2011.
  11. ↑ Steve Goff (14 December 2010). "D.C. United signs Maryland's Ethan White to homegrown contract; Terps goalkeeper Zac MacMath is also turning pro". The Washington Post. Soccer Insider. Retrieved 3 June 2011.
  12. ↑ "D.C. United signs Homegrown defender Ethan White". D.C. United. 14 December 2010. Retrieved 3 June 2011.
  13. ↑ Steven Goff (14 December 2010). "Maryland defender Ethan White leaves school early to sign with D.C. United". The Washington Post. Retrieved 3 June 2011.
  14. 1 2 3 4 Goff, Steven (14 January 2011). "D.C. United drafts Akron's Kitchen". The Washington Post. Retrieved 20 January 2011.
  15. ↑ Coon, Chris (8 December 2010). "Men's soccer wins first ever College Cup title vs. Louisville". The Butchelite. Retrieved 20 January 2011.
  16. ↑ Goff, Steven (29 January 2010). "D.C. United to unveil third kit at Washington Auto Show". The Washington Post (The Washington Post Company). p. D2.
  17. 1 2 Goff, Steven (20 January 2010). "Extreme Makeover: D.C. United Edition". The Washington Post (The Washington Post Company). p. D10.
  18. ↑ Clark, Travis (1 February 2011). "D.C. United decline comment on Charlie Davies". The Washington Post. Retrieved 1 February 2011.
  19. ↑ Goff, Steven (1 February 2011). "D.C. United might acquire Charlie Davies on loan". The Washington Post. Retrieved 1 February 2011.
  20. ↑ "Davies to join D.C. for evaluation, possible loan". MLSSoccer.com. 2 February 2011. Retrieved 2 February 2011.
  21. 1 2 D.C. United Press Release on Charlie Davies
  22. ↑ Haydon, John (16 February 2011). "Charlie Davies joins D.C. United on loan from FC Sochaux". The Washington Times. Retrieved 18 February 2011.
  23. ↑ Goff, Steven (16 February 2011). "D.C. United acquires Charlie Davies on a season-long loan from French club Sochaux". The Washington Post. Retrieved 18 February 2011.
  24. ↑ "Charlie Davies officially joins D.C. United on loan from FC Sochaux after 10-day trial". Potomac Soccer Wire. 16 February 2011. Retrieved 18 February 2011.
  25. ↑ Jones, Grahame, L. (16 February 2011). "Charlie Davies is signed on loan by Major League Soccer's D.C. United". L.A. Times. Retrieved 18 February 2011.
  26. 1 2 3 4 5 "D.C. United waives defender Julius James". D.C. United. 17 February 2011. Retrieved 17 February 2011.
  27. ↑ Caufield, Alex (7 February 2011). "Preseason match 1: United v Canada U-20's". D.C. United. Retrieved 13 February 2011.
  28. ↑ Caufield, Alex (11 February 2011). "United in Fort Lauderdale: Day 12". D.C. United. Retrieved 13 February 2011.
  29. ↑ Goff, Steven (12 February 2011). "Charlie Davies with two goals and an assist in D.C. United preseason victory". The Washington Post – Soccer Insider. Retrieved 13 February 2011.
  30. 1 2 3 4 5 6 Caulfield, Alex (16 March 2011). "Preseason match 9: D.C. United vs Toronto FC". D.C. United Communications. D.C. United. Retrieved 17 March 2011.
  31. ↑ Clark, Travis. "McCarty to wear the armband for D.C. United". MLSSoccer.com. D.C. United. Retrieved 16 March 2011.
  32. ↑ Clark, Travis (19 March 2011). "Debut double strike a "special moment" for Davies". MLSSoccer.com. Retrieved 20 March 2011.
  33. 1 2 3 4 Tenorio, Paul (19 March 2011). "Charlie Davies scores twice in D.C. debut to lead win in team’s MLS opener". The Washington Post. Retrieved 20 March 2011.
  34. ↑ Das, Andrew (19 March 2011). "Davies Scores Twice in D.C. United’s Opener". The New York Times – Goal Blog. Retrieved 20 March 2011.
  35. ↑ Dell’Apa, Frank (26 March 2011). "Revolution are quick to take advantage". The Boston Globe. Retrieved 31 March 2011.
  36. ↑ Carlsie, Jeff (26 March 2011). "Zach Schilawski, Shalrie Joseph score as Revs top DC United". ESPNSoccernet.com. Retrieved 31 March 2011.
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  112. 1 2 2011 MLS Roster Rules|MLSsoccer.com
  113. ↑ D.C. United acquires forward Adam Cristman|D.C. United
  114. ↑ LA Galaxy Acquire International Roster Slot from D.C. United in Exchange for Allocation Money|LA Galaxy
  115. ↑ D.C. United makes trade with Red Bulls|D.C. United
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