DC United returns to defend one of the oldest trophies in the US against Drew Carey's boys. There have been a few words between the organization because Seattle felt they should have gotten the chance to host the game. Sure Seattle has sold more season tickets than the Mariners. Sure Seattle packs the stadium and plays in an outstanding stadium. When the only game time you can offer is 1PM on a Tuesday, you are not going to get to host a Cup final. This is especially true when everyone in the MLS and US Soccer are trying to make this tournament more meaningful.
So DC United will get to host the game at RFK and successfully host all of their games in the this year's Cup. (Many of the games were held at a small stadium in the Maryland Suburbs and DC refused to sell hosting the game to USL competitors because of travel concerns for the packed DC schedule). DC has been pushing this game pretty heavily in the community. They launched the We Win Trophies web site and have been having trophy events at bars throughout the city. Last year DC drew just over 8000 fans to a midweek game for the US Open Cup. This year they have already sold 12000 and expect a strong walk up (it is going to be a beautiful night in the city). DC is also offering $2 16-ounce beers, $2 dogs and ticket prices starting at $12 and going up to $30. Pretty good deal for a championship match (FOX Soccer will be broadcasting live).
DC is playing A TON of games right now because of the MLS and CONCACAF Champions League and not playing all that well. However, they got a 1-0 win at Chicago over the weekend. Seattle is a good team and I think the favorite, but DC has been here before.
Although it is not locked in yet, much like last year the winner of this game should get an invitation to the CONCACAF Champions League next year.
Here's to DC lifting another trophy
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