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Cavalry Arrives for Rebaño Gringo

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Chivas USA's new forward, Jesus Padilla. Photo by Juan Miranda via cdchivasusa.com
A little over a month ago, Chivas USA traded forward Atiba Harris to FC Dallas for midfielder/defender Marcelo Saragosa in a move that left many speculating what plans the red-and-whites might have in mind as they prepared for their playoff run. Some fans and analysts speculated that the team was making room for a big name signing, while others were puzzled at the move, given the team had been struggling on the offensive side. Lingering questions were answered over the last few days and the rest of MLS better take notice.

A week ago yesterday, the red-and-whites acquired Yamith Cuesta on loan from Colombian second division side Expreso Rojo. The 6'3" central defender is young but experienced, having previously played for first division side Santa Fe and also with the Colombian U-20. His presence will help strengthen a Chivas USA defense that has been decimated by injuries throughout the year. The move, however, did not address the need for greater offensive prowess.

On Tuesday, the red-and-whites addressed that need.

Chivas USA and sister club Chivas de Guadalajara came to terms on a loan deal that brings rising star Jesus Padilla to L.A. Padilla debuted with Guadalajara's first team at the age of 19 back in 2006 after having worked his way through the Guadalajara junior ranks and has featured for the storied Mexican side on 34 occasions. Chivas USA Head Coach Preki Radosavljevic expects Padilla to make an immediate impact, stating "We’re excited to have him join the squad, and look forward to seeing him in action for our club."

Late Friday afternoon came further news of additional offensive moves. The red-and-whites have acquired forward Maicon Santos on loan from Bonsucesso Futebol Club. Santos first arrived in the L.A. area earlier this month and has been training with Chivas USA for a few weeks and is the third Brazilian to join the squad.

With these moves, Chivas USA is positioned to make a strong run through the rest of the season and playoffs. The Chivas USA faithful will have their opportunity to view their reinforced squad in action tonight against Toronto FC.

The last time the two sides met back in April, Chivas USA was riding high with a 4 - 0 - 1 record, but the Reds spoiled the party by handing the L.A. side their first loss on the season. Chivas USA would bounce back in the match that followed, but it is a sure bet they'll be looking to exact some revenge on the Canadian side.

Adding to tonight's storyline is Honduran International Amado Guevara who has a checkered past with the red-and-whites. The 2004 MLS MVP appeared in four games for Chivas USA in 2007 after having been traded to L.A. by New York. However, Guevara seemed disinterested in playing for the red-and-whites and conversely Preki showed little interest in keeping him on the squad. The feud eventually led to Guevara's temporary exit from MLS. Lets see if any of those fireworks reappear tonight.

Other soccer notes:

* The Galaxy traveled to D.C after a midweek 2 - 0 victory over Chicago to take on long time rival DC United. David Beckham and Eddie Lewis should both be back in the lineup after having served their one game suspension on Wednesday due to their red card ejections in last Saturday's match versus Seattle.

* Los Angeles Sol have an opportunity to win the inaugural WPS championship tomorrow afternoon when they take on Sky Blue FC. A victory would be a fitting end to the Sol season who were clearly the best side all season long. It would also be the first soccer championship for an L.A. side since the Galaxy won the MLS Cup in 2005.

Game Details
Sol vs. Sky Blue FC
When: Saturday, August 22nd
Where: Home Depot Center
Time: 1:00 PM
TV: PRIME

Chivas USA vs. Toronto FC
When: Saturday, August 22nd
Where: Home Depot Center
Time: 7:30 PM
TV: DK, Match Center, PRIME
Radio: 690 AM, XEWW

Galaxy at D.C. United
When: Saturday, August 22nd
Time: 4:30 PM
TV: FSC, FSE
Radio: KTLK, KWKW

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