Charlie Davies Returns To Soccer With A Two-Goal Game For D.C. United

Seventeen months after getting seriously injured in a car wreck that cost him a shot at a 2010 World Cup roster spot, Charlie Davies returned to the pitch in D.C. United's season opener against Columbus last night. He scored on a penalty kick in the 63rd minute, and added a second goal about 15 minutes later when he got behind a defender who slipped and eluded a charging goalkeeper.

It's the type of scenario that proves that sports, for all its money-grubbing and player-arrest failings, still bring the inspirational human element from time to time. Congrats, Charlie. It's great to see you back.

United vs. Crew: Charlie Davies scores twice in D.C. debut to lead win in team's MLS opener [Washington Post]

United 3, Crew 1: Davies' return overshadows Crew's poor start [Columbus Dispatch]

Charlie Davies Has A Mutant Healing Factor, Gnarliest Scar Ever [Deadspin]

2 years for woman in deadly crash that injured soccer star [Washington Post]

An Open Letter To Soccer Player Charlie Davies (With Afternoon Update) [Deadspin]