In the first match since the press conference announcing Wayne Rooney as a member of Dc United, the club finally showed promise.

DC United traveled to the City of Angels to take on the L.A. Galaxy during a Fourth of July match. It looked as if the club was set for another early-season loss when Darren Mattocks equalized in the 85th minute, and the defense showed up down the stretch to give the struggling club a come from behind draw, 2-2. The Galaxy have had trouble with elite teams this year.

A career best

Mattocks’ goal brought his goal-tally to a career-high of eight goals for the season.

Perhaps this is a sign of good things to come. In his defense, Mattocks has done well on the pitch, as has most of the club. The men of the United have had no problem scoring goals, but have suffered in keeping the lead. The four-time MLS champs have simply squandered numerous leads this season.

The match

The club gave up two early goals against the L.A. Galaxy; one by soccer legend Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who had been dealing with dope allegations, in the fifth minute, and another by former DC United midfielder Chris Pontius in the 25th minute. By halftime, it looked as if DC's club was destined to continue the same mediocre play many believe they’ve carried through the season. DC United’s Zoltan Stieber answered the Galaxy’s second goal, with one of his own a minute later, making it 2-1 at halftime.

And then, later, Mattocks, Man Of The Match, netted his goal. Some DC United officials, players, and fans are gearing up for the Wayne Rooney addition when the MLS international transfer window opens on July 10. And they’re hoping to see the club return to their winning ways.

The United's potential

Currently, DC remains in the cellar of the Eastern Conference standings.

The club still has a way out with at least three games in hand on all but one team in the conference. The United will play 15 of their last 20 matches at home, adding to their chances. All of this, and English superstar Wayne Rooney joining their ranks is sure to increase their chances at bringing home a series of wins.

According to the MLS website, Mattocks' top spot could be in jeopardy because of Rooney.

The English forward has proven himself on the pitch through 16 seasons in the English Premier League (EPL), and now has to make sure he's fit for the MLS campaign. When you have the all-time English national team scorer breathing down your neck, you have no choice but to step up your game. The last six games had Mattocks finding the back of the net five times. Perhaps he's showing the United brass he wants to compete and keep his starting position.
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