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Days after their heartbreaking U.S. Open Cup Final loss to Seattle Sounders, the Union did not fare much better tonight in MLS play. They played Houston Dynamo to a 0-0 draw where Union finishing was at as much of a premium as Houston shots on target.
- The Union, normally a counter-attacking side, had more possession than usual under Jim Curtin. That resulted in them controlling every facet of the game except the scoreboard. The Union had more chances than the Dynamo and the better chances than the Dynamo, but it all came for naught. The finishing was lacking on this evening, and it cost the Union dearly. Conor Casey missed two golden chances in the first half and Pedro Ribeiro failed to score or draw a penalty in second half stoppage time when he had the perfect opportunity to do both.
- The Union began the second half flurry with many chances at goal including three straight corner kicks in two minutes time. They never scored.
- Sebastien Le Toux is a vital player for the Union but I think even he would admit this was not his finest night of work. He turned the ball over a bunch, misfired on a number of shots and crosses, and was generally sluggish. If the Union are to do any damage, his play will have to be better than what it was tonight.
- Despite the fact the Union were playing their 3rd game in eight days, Jim Curtin waited until the 85th minute to make his third and final sub, making the long overdue over change of Le Toux for another human body. This human body was Fred, and the change was made much too late to have any sort of tangible impact on the game.
- Rais M'Bolhi got the start in goal tonight, and seemingly enjoyed his front row seat to a soccer match not involving him.
- Vincent Nogueira is baeeeeeeeeeeeeee.
- Not only did finishing luck escape the Union tonight, but so did luck with other teams. New York Red Bulls defeated Seattle Sounders 4-1 and Columbus Crew picked up a 1-0 victory over New England Revolution. The Union as a result are alone in 6th place in the Eastern Conference and two points behind 5th place Columbus. The good news is time still remains for the Union to get in the playoffs. The bad news is the margin of error is rapidly decreasing.
Up next for the Union is a road match at 1st place D.C. United. Hopefully the Union will not regret dropping two points more points to Houston, this time at PPL Park.