Looking Ahead for D.C. United -- After a strong performance against the first-place New York Red Bulls, United finds itself tied with the Chicago Fire for the fourth spot in the Eastern Conference -- what would be the final playoff spot. United, however, has played two fewer games than the Fire. United has also has two games in hand, compared with the Red Bulls. Two wins and six points would pull United even with the Eastern Conference leaders.

Saturday night, the Fire come to to RFK. United cfan put some distance between the two clubs. It's certainly early in the season -- much to early to determine how the playoff chase will shake out. Are the Wizards as good as they have shown this early -- how will Eddie Johnson be affected by what is apparently a minor knee injury he suffered in the Gold Cup match on Saturday? Is the Fire's slow start an aberration, or will they struggle to make the playoffs? On Saturday, United will be facing a somewhat diminished Fire roster, as the Fire's top player, Justin Mapp, is with the U.S. Men's national team. While it is early in the season, a little breathing room is always welcome. United will be expected to win. Can they live up to those expectations, now that they appear to be in a groove?