The result of this year’s third California Clasico has the San Jose Earthquakes two games out of U.S. Open Cup glory.
The Quakes attack was everything in their 3-2 victory over arch rivals LA Galaxy at Avaya Stadium on a picture perfect Monday night.
Danny Hoesen continued his hot streak, ending the visitors chances of moving forward in the tournament. The Dutchman made the best of his one-on-one opportunity against Brian Rowe, drilling the ball in the center of the goal and putting the Quakes up two in the 62nd minute.
It was Chris Wondolowski’s night, and the Quakes star sported 38 on his back in honor of Matheus Silva. The captain struck in the 15th minute after finding himself all alone atop of the box. He called for the ball and he finished; a level strike to Rowe’s bottom left corner would find the back of the net.
Galaxy would knock first and quickly. Three minutes in, Jelle Van Damme would head home Giovanni Dos Santos’ floating corner-kick cross. The big Belgian’s second derby goal in less than two weeks time.
Wondolowski magic would appear once more in the 51st minute. The captain would head Tommy Thompson’s lofting cross inside the box and give his side all the momentum heading into the last 30 minutes.
After the victory, the Quakes await for the winner of FC Dallas and Sporting KC to set the date and time for the semifinal bout while the Galaxy are forced to know focus solely on league play.
MAN OF THE MATCH
As usual, the California Clasico fit Quakes’ captain Chris Wondowloski to perfection. This time around, the forward’s brace was enough to secure a semifinal spot for the home side.
MOMENT OF THE MATCH
The Quakes heavy counter led by Danny Hoesen not only resulted in a goal, but crushed the Galaxy’s hopes to aim for a comeback.
MATCH TO FORGET
LA Galaxy product Jaime Villarreal’s poor play in the midfield left too large of a void for the visiting side to make up, resulting in a dominating Earthquakes attack.
I didn’t see the game, but another account I read highlighted Thompson’s performance more than did this article. I mention this because I like Thompson and think he has potential. He played for one of the US youth teams (think the U-20’s two years ago) and he impressed me when he had a chance to play. He’s a very dynamic player who runs hard at defenses and puts them under stress. I like his style of play.
Saw the match live and have been to several matches this year plus caught a few games on TV. Thompson played well and it is good to see him get extended minutes. He still needs a bit of work on his finishing as he always aims straight for the keeper. But honestly last night I was really impressed with Yueill. He had a great match, especially in the first half, and just played so smart to relieve pressure, maintain possession, and make an occasionally great pass to spring the attack. It will be interesting when Godoy and Ceren are back from international duty plus the addition of DP Vako who will sit (esp if Hoessen gets shifted to MF to accommodate Urena). Next year if Alashe and Pelosi are back from injury, it will be even tougher to see some of these quality younger guys get meaningful minutes. Even if they clear out the somewhat costly Dawkins who seems out of favor.