CINCINNATI — What a difference a week can make. After a disappointing 2-0 loss to Columbus in the Hell is Real rivalry, FC Cincinnati suddenly finds itself in a much better position following two victories over D.C. United in four days.
Saturday's 2-0 road victory gave Cincinnati six points from the two matches, moving the Orange and Blue to 42 points and eighth place in the Eastern Conference. With three matches remaining, Cincinnati now holds a three-point advantage over ninth-place New York Red Bulls.
While the results are encouraging, the way Cincinnati earned them might be even more important. The team's defense has struggled throughout the season, but the last two matches have shown signs of improvement.
Saturday's shutout was Cincinnati's first in MLS play since April 25, a remarkable drought for a team with playoff ambitions. D.C. United managed 13 shots but put only two on target, as Cincinnati's defenders did a much better job of limiting dangerous opportunities.
The improved organization was noticeable when D.C. United applied pressure in the second half. Cincinnati remained disciplined, defended its penalty area effectively, and avoided the mistakes that have cost it points in previous matches.
Offensively, Evander reminded everyone why he's so important to this team. His outstanding long-range goal in the 35th minute gave Cincinnati the lead, and he followed it with an assist on Tom Barlow's goal in the 52nd.
It was Evander's first goal since August 22, ending a frustrating scoring drought at a time when Cincinnati desperately needed its best player to deliver. With the postseason approaching, having Evander producing again could make a substantial difference.
Following the loss to Columbus, Cincinnati's players held a team meeting to address their performance and approach to the remainder of the season. Veterans Nick Hagglund and Obinna Nwobodo helped lead the discussion, emphasizing the need for a tougher, more disciplined team.
The response was immediate. Cincinnati hasn't necessarily played its prettiest soccer over the last two matches, but it has competed harder, defended better, and found ways to win.
There is still work to do, however. Both victories came against a D.C. United team near the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings, and Cincinnati's remaining schedule will present greater challenges.
The Orange and Blue travel to face Inter Miami on Wednesday before hosting Philadelphia on Saturday. Both matches will provide a better indication of whether Cincinnati's recent improvement is sustainable.
For now, Cincinnati has accomplished exactly what it needed to do. Six points in four days have improved its playoff position, and the team's defensive performance has given supporters reason to believe the Orange and Blue may finally be finding their form.
The challenge now is proving they can do it against better competition.
