After opening the 2012 MLS season with two consecutive losses, D.C. United earned their first point of the year with a goalless draw Saturday night against the Vancouver Whitecaps in British Columbia.
Unlike in their first two matches, United (0-2-1) could reasonably claim to be the better side and might very easily have walked away with all three points but for two sparkling saves by Vancouver keeper Joe Cannon. In the 67th minute, Cannon had to extend low to his right to make a fingertip save of Hamdi Salihi's header from a corner. Then, in the 84th minute, Dwayne De Rosario's shot from a tight angle was parried around the post by Cannon.
By contrast, Joe Willis was barely troubled in United's goal, as the Whitecaps (2-0-1) didn't manage a shot on target.
D.C. United continues its season Friday night when the Black-and-Red host FC Dallas at RFK Stadium.
For more on D.C. United, visit Black and Red United. For more on the Whitecaps, visit 86 Forever.For the latest on the Beautiful Game, visit SB Nation's soccer hub.