Without Beckham and Donovan, L.A. Galaxy Defeat FC Dallas 1-0: A Fan’s Thoughts

Although the Los Angeles Galaxy were missing David Beckham and Landon Donovan, they were still able to snatch three points at FC Dallas stadium on July 28. Mike Magee's second half game-winning goal gave the Galaxy a secure spot in the playoff race. Here are my thoughts on the match.

Magee Comes Through

If there's one player that the Galaxy can count on to come through in a clutch, it's Mike Magee. Magee is willing and able to switch positions. Remember when he stepped in as the goalkeeper against the San Jose Earthquakes in 2011? Although he often plays in the midfield, tonight he started up top with Robbie Keane. In the 62nd minute, Magee scored the game winner and Keane earned the assist. Yet, I must admit, Magee was poorly defended in the lead up to the goal. FC Dallas simply stood there and let him shoot. I suppose they thought Magee was going to give the ball back to Keane. This is Magee's fourth goal of the regular season.

Robbie Keane is a Leader

Donovan is a great captain. However when he is gone, Keane is a very capable too. In the three games he has started as the team's skipper, Keane has either scored a goal or provided an assist. As Bruce Arena mentioned, Keane's leadership was "critically important" in the match. Along with the assist, Keane almost scored. However, his shot was cleared off the line by FCD defender Hernan Pertuz.

Defense is Looking Stronger

Omar Gonzalez logged his first 90 minutes in the 2012 season. This was the first time he has played the entire game since the MLS Cup back in November of 2011. A.J. DeLaGarza continues to play well. In addition, with Bryan Gaul and David Junior Lopes, our backline has some decent height. Furthermore, the 1-0 victory gave us our 4th shutout of the season.

Road Warriors

The win gives the Galaxy a five-game unbeaten streak. In addition, they are undefeated in four road games. Even more impressive is that Los Angeles have scored 20 road goals, the most in the league. These road wins have helped the Galaxy reach 33 points. Now, they are just one point away from the Vancouver Whitecaps and the Seattle Sounders.

The Los Angeles Galaxy have shown that they have depth. Good for us, bad for the rest of the league.

Melissa Matters is a long time Los Angeles resident and devoted Los Angeles Galaxy fan.