Prepare for the Blackout

Published on October 7, 2004 under Major League Soccer (MLS)
D.C. United News Release

WASHINGTON, DC (October 7, 2004) - D.C. United clinched an MLS Cup playoff berth last night courtesy of Columbus' 1-0 victory over the Chicago Fire. With the result, the Black-and-Red snatched a post-season birth for the sixth time in the club's nine-year history. To celebrate the accomplishment, D.C. United is offering a special Blackout playoff package of four tickets and four Blackout 2004 MLS Cup Playoff t-shirts for as low as $88. Groups of 10 or more and D.C. United plan holders can also purchase tickets at a reduced rate by calling D.C. United at 202-587-5000.

D.C. United's first round opponent and schedule have yet to be determined. In the League's playoff format, the first round consists of a home-and-home series, with one match being played at each team's home field. The team with more aggregate goals will advance to the Conference Final, a single match to be played at the higher-seeded contestant's home ground. United will play matches on October 23rd or 24th and October 30th or 31st. Should D.C. United advance beyond the opening round, the Black-and-Red would play November 6th in the Eastern Conference Championship Game. The winner of the Conference Final travels to Los Angeles to represent the Eastern Conference in MLS Cup at the Home Depot Center on November 14th.

Despite exiting the 2003 MLS Cup playoffs in the first round, D.C. United does have a storied playoff past. The club played in the MLS Cup Finals four consecutive seasons dating from 1996-1999. United earned three championships in that span, taking home the trophy in 1996, 1997 and 1999.

Major League Soccer Stories from October 7, 2004

• Crew to host Game Two of the Eastern Conference Semifinals on Sunday, October 31, at 5 p.m. - Columbus Crew SC
• Galaxy defender Hong Myung Bo announces his retirement - LA Galaxy
• Miss L.A. Galaxy 2005 presented by Cover Girl to be crowned this Sunday night in Carson - LA Galaxy
• United for D.C. to Host Kicks for Kids Fall Reception - D.C. United
• Hall of Fame Weekend Across Three States For Chicago Fire - Chicago Fire FC
• Prepare for the Blackout - D.C. United

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