D.C. United's Playoff Schedule Set

With last night's tie in New England, D.C. United clinched home field advantage for the first round of the MLS playoffs. After the game, the MLS told D.C. that their first round home game will be Sunday October 29th at 6 p.m.. This of course accommodates ESPN2 coverage of the game and my attendance at the Maryland-Footlocker State game on October 28th. No need to worry about conflict with the Redskins, October 29th is their bye week this year. D.C. United's first round opponent has not yet been determined.

And with Colorado's defeat of Chicago D.C. United only needs a tie on Sunday in Chicago to clinch the Eastern Conference Title. Should D.C. lose on Sunday, they would only need 1 point in their final 4 games or any Chicago loss or tie. This ensures that should D.C. advance past the first round of the MLS playoffs, they will play in RFK for the right to go to Dallas for the MLS Cup on the weekend of November 4-5.

D.C. United was also helped by the Dallas loss to Chivas last night. This drops D.C. United's magic number to 9 for the MLS Supporter's Shield and international competition next year.