D.C. United takes on Red Bull New York tonight in a match crucial to league standings and regional pride. United has taken advantage of a torrid August (3-0-0 in league play) to move into second place in the eastern conference. In NYRB they face an opponent that is fresh off of a high octane 5-4 victory over David Beckham and the LA Galaxy. The winner will retain sole possession of second place and assert themselves as Supporters’ Shield contenders.

Also on the line is this year’s installment of the Atlantic Cup, awarded annually to the winner of the season series between the I-95 neighbors. A win or a tie will clinch the Cup for United. Though D.C. has retained the Cup for each of the last three seasons, they face a more formidable foe in this year’s Red Bull squad.

United hopes to extend their MLS shutout streak (already a franchise record) to four games, but standing in their way will be perhaps the most talented striking tandem in the league — electric phenom Jozy Altidore and lethal veteran Juan Pablo Angel. D.C. will be without the services of Josh Gros for the game. The athletic winger/defenseman could be lost for the season, in fact, due to recurring concussion problems.

Game time is 7:30 p.m. For those unable to attend, the live broadcast will be available on Comcast Sportsnet.