In a way, the first half on D.C. United's season opener reminded us of 2010. The team held possession for much of the half, shut down their opponent's attacks succinctly, generated chances, but were unable to finish.
Newcomer and recently named team captain Dax McCarty had the best chance of the match early in the first half, but his open shot from the top of the box went just wide of Will Hesmer's goal after Josh Wolff had beaten Rich Balchan on the right wing and sent a cross inside. Forward Joseph Ngwenya also had multiple chances for United, but sent two shots clear over the crossbar. Coach Ben Olsen may choose to insert Charlie Davies in the second half.
United's aggression in defending seems to be the biggest change when comparing this team to what we saw in 2010. D.C.'s central midfield combination of McCarty and Clyde Simms did a good job of ensuring that the Columbus Crew would finish the first half without more than a few very minor chances. The score remains 0-0 after 45 minutes.