DC visited defending MLS Cup Champions Columbus on Saturday (April 6) and, as in their first 3 away games this season, emerged with a draw (1-1).
DC started most of its usual defense: Bono in goal, Bartlett/McVey/Herrera on the back line, but for the 2nd week in a row Antley was in the left back spot (so to speak; Lesesne's formations are fluid at times). Klich and Hopkins were in defensive midfield, and on offense were Stroud, Ted KDP, Dajome, and Benteke.
Hopkins almost gave DC a dream start in the 2nd minute, but his drive hit the left post. Columbus threatened several times, but DC held firm. Herrera in particular had a good defensive game, but the system really is working well. Really fun to watch.
DC had a couple of good chances right before halftime, but Columbus deflected one Benteke try for a corner and Columbus keeper Patrick Schulte barely stopped another try from close range. Scoreless at the half.
DC subbed in Peltola for Hopkins and Santos for Ted KDP at the 60th minute; perhaps a more offensive role for Santos in the future? There were immediate indirect dividends; a cross from the right caromed off a DC player directly to Benteke about 10 yards out, and he buried it.
Pirani came on for Stroud in the 70th minute, and 5 minutes later Columbus striker Cucho Hernandez (just returning from an internal suspension for discipline) lost his cool when tangled up with McVey and spiked him him the knee/upper leg area. Straight red. It looked like a possible road win! However, Columbus stepped it up a gear (even a man down) and put pressure on. Aidan Morris was left alone from 27 yards out (looked like both Peltola and Pirani gave him too much space) and he buried a rocket in the right corner to tie the game.
There were a few more flurries, but the game ended 1-1.
This one was a little disappointing after being a man up and a goal up with less than 5 minutes in regulation, but a draw is a result many would have been happy with at the start of the game. DC had 14 shot attempts (3 on goal) and 3 corners.
Next up: Orlando this coming Saturday (April 13) at Audi Field