D.C. United takes two steps back during an empty trip to Toronto

D.C. United defender David Schnegg walks back to midfield as Toronto FC celebrates an own goal during the second half Saturday at BMO Field. (John E. Sokolowski/Imagn Images)TORONTO — D.C. United had recovered in recent weeks from a rough patch and, although things were far from perfect, they were better. A trip north against a spiraling opponent brought a brilliant opportunity to take another step forward.

Instead, United took two steps back with a performance emptier than its 2-0 loss to Toronto FC suggested. Troy Lesesne’s lifeless squad did not record a shot until just before intermission and, if not for goalkeeper Luis Barraza’s exploits and Toronto’s misfires, the match might have been…