For D.C. United 2015 has been a season of overcoming the odds. Whenever one player returns, another gets injured. While this patchwork team currently finds themselves in first place in the Eastern Conference their biggest hurdle may still yet be ahead. Last week it was revealed that goalkeeper Bill Hamid will be out for the next 4-6 weeks after having hand and knee surgeries.
Hamid, who has been United’s starting goalkeeper since 2011, had surgery on his right knee and on his left hand. The right knee injury was in the meniscus area, while the left hand injury was in his knuckle. Neither injury is thought to be career-threatening.
The 2014 MLS Goalkeeper of the Year, Hamid has really turned the page in 2015. He has produced six shutouts, a .819 save percentage, and a Goals Against Average of .750. D.C. United currently sits in first place in the Eastern Conference with a 10-6-5 record.
90+ The final stages were peppered with opportunities as Ousted made his way into the oppositions area for a pair of corners. Despite the pressure there was no way through and DC walked away with a hard fought three points.
Without Hamid, United will likely call on Andrew Dykstra to take his place. Dykstra has already started United’s last two matches, a 1-0 loss to the Philadelphia Union during U.S. Open Cup play and a 1-0 loss to Seattle Sounders FC in league play. He has served as Hamid’s back-up for the past two years, making nine starts and holding two shutouts.
Aside from a very poor performance against Alajuelense in the CONCACAF Champions League this year, Dykstra has performed well in limited appearances. At times he seems a little tentative in making diving saves, which may be a result of him tearing his ACL last season during an exhibition against Fulham. But if given time this issue should be ironed out.
Dykstra’s back-up is Travis Worra, a rookie who has made one appearance for United this year. He has spent most of United’s campaign on loan with USL Pro side Richmond Kickers. Worra has made seven starts with the Kickers. With United set to start CONCACAF Champions League play in August, look for Worra to make more appearances with the senior club.
For either Dykstra or Worra, the key to keeping United at the top of the Eastern Conference standings will be to develop strong communication with their back four. D.C. is still without right-back Sean Franklin, who sustained a left ankle injury during a match in June. Excellent communication between Hamid and center-backs Bobby Boswell and Steve Birnbaum has helped United maintain their form and composure. With United’s attack still in a state of flux (the club acquired Alvaro Saborio earlier today) the defense will still be expected to carry this squad.
After a two week break United will be back in action on Saturday night against F.C. Dallas (9pm EST, Comcast SportsNET DC, MLS Live).
DC United
