The ridiculous transformation that D.C. United’s experienced since the arrival of Wayne Rooney reached a fitting conclusion today with a 3-1 victory over New York City FC and a berth in the 2018 MLS Cup Playoffs. Rooney scored twice for United and strike partner Luciano Acosta was also on the scoresheet before David Villa struck a late consolation goal on a celebratory day at Audi Field.
With only a trip to Chicago next weekend remaining on D.C.’s regular season schedule, the Black-and-Red took care of business at home against the East’s third-best side.
Rooney’s first arrived in the eighth minute after some fantastic work by Acosta out wide.
Lucho. Acosta. Simply amazing.
What a run to tee up Wayne Rooney! 1-0. #DCvNYC https://t.co/DfeTZ8d0Xw— Major League Soccer (@MLS) October 21, 2018
Acosta then doubled United’s lead in the 24th minute with a perfect strike after Rooney caused NYC's defense problems at the top of the box.
LUCHOOOOO!
He can't be stopped. #DCvNYC https://t.co/m19WXAckSW— Major League Soccer (@MLS) October 21, 2018
The third, and Rooney’s second, came from the spot in the 74th. The Englishman now has 12 goals in 19 appearances for D.C.
Rooney from the spot! @dcunited are on their way to sealing an Audi #MLSCupPlayoffs spot. #DCvNYC https://t.co/8aV1OHvkB0
— Major League Soccer (@MLS) October 21, 2018
Villa, who’s missed a number of matches through injury this season, then got his 13th of the year with a pretty finish in the 78th.
He's baaack, folks.@YangelHerrera8 wins the ball & sets up Villa to pull one back. #DCvNYC https://t.co/WZT4wpp2NL
— Major League Soccer (@MLS) October 21, 2018
D.C. finishes the regular season next Sunday against Chicago, while NYC hosts Philadelphia. There’s still the possibility that D.C. and New York could meet in the first round of the playoffs.
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