congratulations and good luck to the Black-and-Red!"
Fenty's comments echo outgoing Mayor Anthony Williams' public stance for assisting in the development of a stadium in Anacostia for MLS' most successful side. The team believes a new, state-of-the-art facility would not only benefit the club, but serve as a valuable asset to the community as well, as the stadium would anchor a new real estate development at Poplar Point.
Full Force Blackout Rolls Through D.C.
Nearly 22,000 fans packed the lower bowl of RFK Stadium at Sunday's match against the New York Red Bulls, transforming the orange stadium seats into a turbulent and intimidating sea of black. Banging drums, chanting and singing songs at a deafening volume throughout, the crowd created an atmosphere befitting of a decisive playoff game against an archrival. Even when New York scored to level the aggregate score at 1-1, the United faithful never lost their voice, staying behind United and urging the team.
"Our crowd was just awesome," United goalkeeper Troy Perkins said. "They could tell that our energy was down, and they really picked us up, especially after the goal. They stayed in it, and that's what we need."
When Christian Gomez slotted the series-winning goal, the crowd erupted, shaking the rafters of the old stadium as they worked themselves into a frenzy. A similar ovation met the referee's final whistle, as the Black-and-Red advanced to the Eastern Conference Championship for the second time in three years.
"There is no doubt that we have the best fans in the league," said Payne. "They give us a home-field advantage that no other team in MLS has. You don't even have to follow soccer to appreciate the atmosphere and excitement our crowd creates. This weekend's conference final provides another opportunity for United fans to gather in support of the Black-and-Red. We encourage all who attended the New York game to join us again and bring friends. The atmosphere is contagious and powerful and we hope that it will lead us to a win over New England."
To make sure you are part of the Blackout against the New England Revolution on Sunday, order tickets online at dcunited.com or call (202) 587-5000 - don't forget to wear black!
Goal of the Year
Two D.C. United players have been short-listed for the Sierra Mist MLS Goal of the Year nominee, as the League narrowed the field down to 10 choices. Facundo Erpen's miraculous 40-yard strike against New York in Week 4- a goal which won the team's Goal of the Year prize- remains one of the choices still up for the award. United's MVP candidate Christian Gomez is also still in the running for his stunning left-footed volley against Los Angeles in Week 11.
The second round of voting runs through Nov. 1, with the winner to be announced on Nov. 10. Vote for your favorite goal >
