The first half of this match was a showcase for Atlanta and for its fans as they had multiple score opportunities. In the 28th minute,  Ronaldo Cisneros had a close-range shot when he headed the ball but that ball was blocked. More shots were taken by Atlanta with none of them going in the net. DC United, despite lacking its offense, showed up in their defense. David Ochoa had some amazing saves in the first half. His save in the 28th minute was particularly amazing in part due to having a good enough reaction time and the overall athleticism to get from one side of the net to the other while driving head first to block the shot.

In the 47th minute, DC United made the first goal of the game. Ravel Morrison scored from outside the box after a set piece was designed. It didn't take long For Atlanta to come back with a goal of their own to have the score even 1-1. Alan Franco, captain of the team, rose up for a header on an Almada corner kick and slotted it past Ochoa. As of the 49th minute, the score was 1-1 thanks to the goal. D.C. United took the lead back after only five minutes. Ola Kamara scored the second goal for DC after Atlanta United goalie Rocco Rós Novo mishandled a cross from Chris Durkin. Seeing Lennon charging up the field, Sejdi kicked the ball to him out on the flank. Lennon sent a cross back into the penalty area, where Martnez was waiting. In the 62nd minute, the score was tied as Martinez sprang and headed the ball into the top right corner for the home team. But it didn't take long for Atlanta to score the winner.  A free kick was given to Atlanta United. D.C. United's wall was able to prevent Arajo's free kick. This time, it was the 5-Stripes who grabbed the loose ball and lobbed it back into the penalty area for Purata to put away giving Atlanta the lead.

For Atlanta United, Purata's goal was the difference in a 3-2 victory over D.C. United. 

[Photography by ICONIC photographer Rachel Pearce]

Written by Wes Shepherd