Weeks had passed since D.C. United last scored in league play, match after winless match as the toothless MLS club tumbled down the Eastern Conference standings. Wednesday’s disheveled affair against the New England Revolution was clunking along on a similar empty path when, as the 90th minute gave way to stoppage time, Gabriel Pirani smashed a shot of power and purity.
The goal by the Brazilian substitute — a 19-yard one-timer that rocketed into the top near corner of the net — earned not only a 1-1 draw, but a coveted moment of happiness for his wayward team.