MLS: D.C. United 2, Real Salt Lake 1

WASHINGTON, Sept. 12 (UPI) -- Christian Gomez had an assist and then scored the game-winning goal Wednesday as D.C. United downed Real Salt Lake 2-1.

The MVP from last year's MLS season scored his seventh goal of the campaign and wrapped up a playoff spot for United. The team has missed the playoffs only three times in the league's 12-year history.

Gomez set up Luciano Emilio for a header that got the best of Salt Lake goalkeeper Nick Rimando in the 16th minute.

Kyle Beckerman tied the game in the 32nd minute and Gomez, who had missed a penalty kick earlier in the game, put United back in front in the 73rd.