Good afternoon folks. I’m coming to you from a pretty miserable ride from D.C. to New Jersey. I must say that I can’t recall ever making this ride back after seeing a D.C. team as thoroughly beaten as D.C. was beaten last night. I know D.C. fans are holding out hope that it’s just a bad stretch but I see some real problems that aren’t going to go away any time soon. I’ll delve into that subject in an ESPN.com piece this weekend.
I did come away thoroughly impressed with Chicago and what Denis Hamlett has done with this team. They are playing with a passion and purpose that serves to complement the considerable skill on the team. I came away especially impressed with Cuauhtemoc Blanco. Not because of his goal (which was sick) but because of how he interacts with the team away from the field. He’s a star and a designated player but you would be hard-pressed to find a teammate say anything about him having an oversized ego. The same can’t be said for all the designated players in MLS.
The best part of Chicago’s success has been seeing Denis Hamlett make the most of an opportunity not everyone felt he would flourish at. The team has bought in completely to his philosophy. It’s only May and slumps will come, but Fire fans have a reason to believe this could be a special year.
What do you think about Chicago’s strong start? How about D.C. United’s awful start? Share your thoughts below.