Photo by USA Today Sports Images
The Los Angeles Galaxy dominated the San Jose Earthquakes in almost every way possible on Friday night at Home Depot Center. Every way except the one that counts, the actual score of their Western Conference showdown.
The Earthquakes mustered just three shots on the night, but converted two of those chances to earn a 2-2 tie against the Galaxy on a night when the home team carried the play and created the majority of the chances.
Chris Wondolowski led the way for San Jose, opening the scoring in the 18th minute with a quality finish before delivering an assist on the debut goal for newly-signed Designated Player Matias Perez Garcia in the 31st minute.
In both instances, the Galaxy responded with goals, first from Gyasi Zardes off a rebounded Robbie Keane shot in the 29th minute, then by an Omar Gonzalez header off a Steven Ishizaki corner kick in the 49th minute.
The Galaxy dominated the run of play, holding a nearly 70/30 possession advantage, and outshooting the Earthquakes 24-3. Bruce Arena’s side couldn’t make the most of that possession though, and paid the price for two defensive blunders, with the Earthquakes capitalizing in both instances.
Landon Donovan impressed in his first match since announcing his plan to retire at the end of the season. His surges forward helped drive the Galaxy attack, and keep the Earthquakes on their heels defensively, but
The draw halted a two match winning streak for the Galaxy, which had won four of five entering Friday’s match. The Earthquakes pushed their unbeaten streak to four matches with the draw.
What did you think of the match? Impressed with San Jose’s newest DP? Think the Galaxy will wind up paying the price for dropping points?
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