Galaxy Start Season On A Winning Note
Galaxy forward Edson Buddle reacts to his first half goal. (AP)
The goal came at the 6th minute as a result of a great cross off a free kick by Galaxy superstar Landon Donovan. Buddle was able to lose his defender to finish with a great header from inside the six to register his first goal of the year. The victory was a perfect start to the Galaxy's 2010 season, but the match wasn't without its drama.
Despite dominating most of the first half, the blue-and-gold were unable to capitalize on some great chances. Newcomer Leonardo nearly doubled it for the Galaxy when he managed to get on the end of a corner kick at the 26th minute, but his shot missed the frame. The Galaxy continued to threaten as the half progressed and Buddle nearly closed out the first half with another goal with his attempt at the 43rd minute.
As the second half got underway, it quickly became apparent that something happened to the Galaxy during half time. The blue-and-gold struggled to move upfield and New England took advantage of the disorganized Galaxy midfield. It wasn't long thereafter that the visitors began to threaten the Galaxy goal on a regular basis. Revs forward Kheli Dube had two golden opportunities to bring the teams level at the 54th and 58th minute, but poor finishing on his part prevented it.
Unfortunately for Galaxy fans, a little bit of Dube found its way into the Galaxy finishing. Although the blue-and-gold continued to struggle through the second half, they were able to get things going again in the final quarter of an hour. Donovan was running at the Revs defense on a frequent basis, giving the impression that it was only a matter of time before the blue-and-gold would extend their lead. Buddle and 2009 Rookie of the Year Omar Gonzalez both had quality chances, but the score remained unchanged with only a few minutes left in the match.
As the match was reaching its final minute, Donovan found himself streaking towards the New England goal on a breakaway with no one else to beat but Revs 'keeper Preston Burpo. To the fortune of Burpo and Revs fans, Donovan opted to not attempt to finish the play himself and it ended up becoming a wasted opportunity at goal.
The 1 - 0 result for the Galaxy gives the blue-and-gold a bit of a mental advantage going into next Thursday's SuperClasico against Chivas USA. It should be an interesting match.