Photo by ISIPhotos.com
By IVES GALARCEP
It took the Los Angeles Galaxy some time, but they eventually figured out how to break down FC Dallas’ patchwork defense and keep the one-time West leaders heading in the wrong direction in the win-loss column.
Second-half goals from Marcelo Sarvas and Hector Jimenez helped give the Galaxy a 2-0 victory over FC Dallas on Sunday night at StubHub Center.
FC Dallas goalkeeper Raul Fernandez did his best to keep the Galaxy off the scoreboard, but LA broke through in the 65th minute when Keane streaked down the left flank and delivered a perfect short cross to an on-running Sarvas, who headed it home for the 1-0 lead.
Keane had a hand in the second Galaxy goal as well, laying off a pass to Robbie Rogers down the left flank, where Rogers then delivered a perfect pass to a wide-open Hector Jimenez in front of goal. Jimenez made no mistake, converting the chance and securing the victory for the Galaxy.
The loss drops FC Dallas to 0-2-4 in their past six, and it pulls the Galaxy to within a point of FC Dallas for second place in the Western Conference.
Here are the match highlights:
What did you think of the match? Impressed with the Galaxy’s performance? Starting to wonder if FC Dallas is for real?
Share your thoughts below.
Dallas looked dangerous early. Pace up the flanks earned them multiple corners, at least one of which they almost converted. They tried pushing numbers forward. At one point they had seven red shirts pushing the line. None of it worked though, and by the fortieth minute Galaxy had them by the throat. The last five minutes of the half was like watching a half court basketball game, with Galaxy surrounding the Dallas goal and maintaining total possession.
Fortunately for Dallas and the rest of the MLS, the Galaxy strike force remains weak. Keane is playing well in his new role as attacking midfielder, but he’s alone up there unless Sarvas pushes forward. Rogers continues to miss. At least last night he put his shots on frame – twice nailing sitters straight into the FCD keeper’s gut. Zardes meanwhile is turning into a punch line. He appears to be attempting to break the MLS record for missed shots. What? They don’t keep that record? Well maybe they should start, and award a trophy with an awful yellow Mohawk on top. Zardes now sits on over thirty shots with only two goals. It’s like watching a fire hose that’s been dropped on the ground and continues to spray water in every direction except where you want it to go. It appears that Hector Jimenez is now the Galaxy’s most composed scorer. That’s great news! If you’re RSL, Sounders, Quakes, or anyone else hoping to knock off the Gals this Fall.
Geez man, I get that Zardes is frustrating, but the fact he’s been in position to take 30+ shots is positive. He’s not a seasoned vet. He’s a rookie. He’s getting into spots, taking shots and, way more often than not, missing them. That’s okay. He’ll only get better. I still think we’ve got a future beastmaster on our team. Right now he’s an inaccurate beast, but he’ll get there.
Still, you gotta admit, that trophy would look pretty cool.