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United's President Decries Effort as Team Falls to 2-5
D.C. United's Franco Niell tries to split the Fire's Diego Gutierrez, left, and Logan Pause. A Chicago goal late in the first half deflated United, which was depleted by injuries.
(Jonathan Newton - The Washington Post)
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In the 39th minute, Chicago seized the lead with a precision strike. Chris Rolfe served a high cross from the right flank toward the far side of the penalty area. Chad Barrett headed it back into open space, where an unmarked Mapp drilled a one-timer from 16 yards into the left side for his first goal of the season and 12th since being traded by D.C. in 2002.
Soehn singled out midfielder Santino Quaranta for the breakdown. Said Quaranta: "I didn't know nobody else would be behind me. As an attacking player, I was just trying to help defensively."
Mapp's strike so late in the half clearly deflated United, which, to that point, had the better of the all-around play despite failing to seriously test Busch. As the half ended, United defender Gonzalo Martínez smashed the ball in frustration from the center circle at the Chicago bench.
In the second half, United continued to falter within 25 yards and was of no threat on set pieces. The Fire had ample opportunity to double the lead, but Zach Wells made outstanding saves on Barrett three minutes apart and Gonzalo Segares missed the far corner by a foot or two.
Blanco administered the knockout blow in the 62nd, gliding 20 yards without resistance before swerving a 30-yarder into the far upper corner.
"It's very concerning. I asked the guys to come out with the effort and that improved a bit, but still over 90 minutes we broke down," Soehn said.
Added Moreno: "I don't know what to think anymore. We've got to turn it around. It's the only way."
United Notes: Despite his early-season problems, Emilio has received a substantial bonus payment and become the club's second designated player, the MLS guideline that allows teams to sign talent outside normal salary guidelines.
In a complicated deal, Emilio's original contract will remain intact and United will have to decide later this season whether to increase his base salary. If it declines, Emilio could be traded or sold abroad. Gallardo is United's other designated player. Each team received one slot, but D.C. acquired Colorado's in the Christian Gómez trade. . . .
Fire rookie Stephen King, a third-round pick from Maryland, entered in the 85th minute.
