FC Cincinnati, D.C. United set for playoff-race clash

FC Cincinnati and D.C. United meet Wednesday in a rescheduled MLS match, then face each other again Saturday, with both games carrying major weight in a crowded Eastern Conference wild-card race. The six teams from eighth through 13th are separated by only three points, and Cincinnati and D.C. have struggled to capitalize: Cincinnati has one win in its last nine matches, while D.C. has two wins in its last 12. Cincinnati is coming off a 2-0 loss to Columbus despite outshooting the Crew 24-4; D.C. lost 4-1 to Orlando City. Cincinnati will look to its leading scorers Kevin Denkey and Evander to help turn around its form, while D.C. is set to welcome back defender Lucas Bartlett from suspension.