D.C. United vs. Chicago Fire MLS TV/streaming, previews, prediction, lineup and gamethread

If it feels like D.C. United just played the Chicago Fire, its because, well, they did. United will hope to have some of the same luck they had the last game, when the beat the Fire 6-2. They also really need the three points that this game can provide, as they should be able to beat one of the worst teams in the Eastern Conference. Thanks to the other results last week, United didn’t fall further behind in the race for the playoffs, but they didn’t make up any ground either. Anything less than a win in this game will be a big disappointment.

D.C. United Projected Starting XI: Due to the injury to Sean Franklin, D.C. United still won’t be at full strength this week. Luke Mishu will step in at right back, with the regular crew of Steve Birnbaum, Bobby Boswell, and Taylor Kemp filling out the rest of the back line in front of Bill Hamid.

The midfield will be boosted by the return from suspension of Luciano Acosta, who will send Nick DeLeon back to the bench. Marcelo Sarvas will occupy his normal role in central midfield, and with Jared Jeffrey still out with a concussion Rob Vincent will continue to occupy the deepest spot in the middle of the field. Patrick Nyarko will hold down the right wing and Lamar Neagle will get a shot on the left from the start of the game. Patrick Mullins will lead the line.

Match Previews: We break down tonight’s matchup, as does MLSSoccer.com and dcunited.com.

Referee: Kevin Stott

What are you drinking? If you listened to Filibuster this week, you know that I have some moonshine that my sister got me; I’ve been mixing it with fruit juices all week, and I’m just going to find something and mix that in come game time.

Prediction: Since they’re on the road, it won’t be a blowout like it was a few weeks ago. Still, give me 2-1 D.C. United.

Consider this the place for pre-game, in-game and post-game comments.