Thanks to a Sandy-related scheduling switch, the second leg of the Eastern Conference playoff series between D.C. United and the New York Red Bulls was moved to Red Bull Arena. But winter storm Athena slammed New Jersey last night, dumping snow on an area already crippled by last week’s devastating hurricane and forcing the postponement of the game. That was bad news for the 700 United fans that took the club up on an offer of a free bus ride and ticket to the game.
via @bearderic on Instagram
via @_buzzandwoody on Instagram
via @chillywilkinz on Instagram
The fans spent hours in the blustery stadium before the game was eventually cancelled. When the game was finally called (despite United wanting to play), the players went up into the stands to thank the fans for their support.
11 buses of 700 fans chanting “we are staying!” After game gets cancelled… Now THAT is dedication, thank u fans! #dcu #class #playoffs
— Dejan Jakovic (@DejanJakovic) November 8, 2012
via @dcist_pablo on Twitter
via @chillywilkinz on Instagram
via @bearderic on Instagram
On the late night trip home, one of the United fan buses spun out on the Jersey turnpike after being side-swiped by a van. Thankfully no one was hurt.
Confirmed. Bus of #DCU fans involved in minor accident in snow on NJ Turnpike. Everyone’s alright but sitting out in the snow on shoulder.
— Pedro Aida (@PedroAidaRVA) November 8, 2012
The game was rescheduled for tonight at 7:30 Eastern, when conditions are supposed to be much improved. You’d think that an experience like they had on Wednesday would deter United fans from ever doing anything like that again.
Nope.
@davisjsn 1 bus had a minor wreck on turnpike, everyone was ok. Most busses got home around 4am. Doing it all again… Leaving RFK at 1
— Vincent Barra (@DCUnitedFan86) November 8, 2012
Unfortunately, the number of buses for tonight’s game has been reduced dramatically, and those on the wrecked bus missed their chance to sign up by the time they got home.
