At the start of the MLS regular season, it looked as though D.C. United were going to run away with the Eastern Conference. After a tremendous end to last season, there was a tentative anticipation that this might be possible. Another year of Wayne Rooney. Luciano Acosta staying with the club and not moving to Europe. A stifling defensive unit with two rugged defensive midfielders. There was a lot to like about this D.C. side.
And the early signs were extremely positive. They won three of their first four matches, lost only one of their first seven, that coming against Los Angeles FC with Rooney sent off in the 52nd minute, and were seemingly set to race away with the Eastern title.