The 46,686 spectators that packed into RFK stadium got their money’s worth last night. The United faithful saw a dominating performance that vaulted their team into second place in the Eastern Conference of MLS. Those hoping to see soccer star and global icon David Beckham also left pleased: LA’s five million dollar man played the final 20 minutes, making his Major League Soccer debut.

Though United’s finishing was spotty, they enjoyed the great majority of chances throughout the game and had little trouble maintaining possession. Despite the hoopla surrounding the game, United’s players remained commendably focused, especially in the early minutes. This led to several chances, among them an eight yard volley that Ben Olsen sent narrowly over the cross bar and a Luciano Emilio header off of a corner kick that also sailed just high of goal.

Emilio would atone for his lost opportunity in the 27th minute. After enjoying a nice run of possession, United found the back of the net thanks to a fantastic strike. Converted defender Mark Burch found Emilio about 30 yards from net on the left side of the field. Emilio ran towards the center of the field and tested GK Joe Cannon with his powerful right foot. Cannon, playing a few yards off his line, was able to get a hand on Emilio’s shot but could not prevent the goal.

Photos by Kyle Gustafson