Los Angeles Galaxy Lose in Omar Gonzalez’s Return to Action: Fan’s Reaction

On Wednesday, July 4, the Los Angeles Galaxy dropped their second straight match in a 2-1 home defeat to the Philadelphia Union. Michael Farfan scored the game-winner in stoppage time for the Union.

 Here are three thoughts on the match:

Omar Gonzalez returns

 There once was a time when players who tore their anterior cruciate ligament were out of action for close to a year. The Galaxy's Omar Gonzalez proved that he could make it back in just six months when he took the pitch on Wednesday night. Gonzalez played the first 45 minutes before head coach Bruce Arena took him out of the game at halftime. He looked a bit rusty and still needs to get in shape, but Gonzalez turned in a solid performance.

 More importantly, it was great to see him on the field. He's always been the rock of the Galaxy's defense, and I hope that Gonzalez can help restore order on a back line that has been awful for most of 2012.

Still leaking goals

 One of the biggest frustrations that I had during the 2011 season was the Galaxy's tendency to give up late goals in the first or the second half. The club was able to overcome that problem last season, but the issue has turned up again this year. The issue isn't a lack of talent. Instead, it's the club's inability to stay focused for the full 90 minutes that is hurting the Galaxy. I can only hope they get it together before the playoffs are out of reach.

South Coast Soccer City acquired

 At halftime, the Galaxy announced that the team had acquired South Coast Soccer City in Torrance, Calif. The club is partnering with American Skating Entertainment Centers (ASEC) to re-develop the indoor facility. The goal is to create a developmental program known as Galaxy Juniors, which will introduce kids to soccer. Soon to be known as the LA Galaxy Soccer Center, the facility will also provide local programs for children of all ages.

 As a fan of the sport, the Galaxy deserve a lot of credit for taking on this venture. I often complain that MLS clubs aren't doing enough to develop soccer at the community level, and it excites me to see the Galaxy taking the initiative in Southern California. This new facility in Torrance will provide local children with an opportunity to fall in love the sport that many kids don't have today. Congratulations to the Galaxy for stepping up to the plate and doing their part to develop soccer in the United States.