For D.C. United, the events that transpired in the last week confirmed two unalienable truths. Contrary to United’s play during their prolonged slump, they are, in fact, a very good team. And despite a run of good form in U.S. Open Cup play, there’s something about the 92-year-old competition that gives D.C. fits.

Last Sunday, United snapped its miserable 5 game winless streak with a 2-1 win over Chivas USA. The win gave United 50 points on the season and secured them a spot in the playoffs. They were led by a dominating Christian Gomez, who scored a pair of goals and barely missed on another 2 attempts. The midfielder reasserted himself as one of the most prolific offensive players in the MLS, and is making a strong case for the league’s Most Valuable Player award.

However, the momentum that Gomez and United built on Sunday was negated last night with a disappointing 3-0 loss to the Chicago Fire. The DCenters blame United’s poor attention to detail for the loss. Coach Peter Nowak blames the officiating crew that disallowed a Matias Donnet putback. For whatever reason, United’s U.S. Open Cup run ended in the semifinals. The black-and-red haven’t made the Cup final since 1997.