WASHINGTON, D.C.–The last few weeks for D.C. United cannot be described as anything short of an anomaly.
United started the season 3-0-1, including two high-scoring wins at Audi Field. United scored nine goals, conceding just one, in those four games.
The next four games were a different story. United dropped points at home, including a 4-0 loss to Los Angeles Football Club, went 1-2-1 and scored just three goals while conceding eight.
Another oddity of D.C. United’s young 2019 season is its away form. The team is 3-0-1 away from Audi Field this season with wins against Orlando, Colorado and, most recently, Columbus Crew SC. D.C. now heads to Minnesota for another road match Sunday.
“Every away game is based on hard work,” United captain Wayne Rooney said in a team video. “If we put the same effort we put in Columbus, we will have a chance to win the game.”
Minnesota United is just beginning to build a home record at the new Allianz Field. After five games on the road to start the season while the stadium was finished, Minnesota is finally home. The stadium has high reviews off the pitch, but the Loons have yet to collect more than a point per game at home, with draws against New York City FC and LA Galaxy.
After two midweek matches, both teams’ starting XIs are a bit of a mystery. United goes to St. Paul, Minn. directly from Ohio with plenty of youth. Centerback Donovan Pines exceled Wednesday against Crew SC and will likely get the nod this weekend since defenders Joseph Mora (jaw) and Chris McCann (hamstring) are still injured.
Meanwhile in Minnesota, coach Adrian Heath appears to be keeping his gameday roster private:
#MNUFC coach Adrian Heath keeping attacking options on toes going into game Sunday vs. #DCU. #Loons' starting XI known within group, and alternatives told to report as if they'll be in the squad.
But not all wide players will make game day 18; competition level has ratcheted up
— Andy Greder (@andygreder) April 27, 2019
Match Information
When: Sunday, 1:20 p.m. ET
Where: Allianz Field — St. Paul, Minnesota
Broadcast: Fox Sports 1