USA Legend Alexi Lalas trained in London … with Arsenal
“I trained with the Reserves. It was a very eye-opening experience to be over there, and to be running the steps at Highbury with Tony Adams, and Paul Merson,” Lalas said. “Ian Wright picked me up for breakfast and took me out to dinner. It was an interesting experience.”
I had no idea. Did you?
On July 16, 2009, L.A. Galaxy supporters were treated to a display of football that hasn’t been seen from this team since the days of of Sigi Schmid. The Galaxy finally showed what was possible from this collection of players, by defeating the New York Red Bulls with class and style. Yes, it was just the Red Bulls, who are definitely a cursed team this season. But, there’s been a return of team unity and organization to the Galaxy that hasn’t been seen in 2 or 3 seasons. With the return of David Beckham, and Landon Donovan’s coming back from Gold Cup duty, there were many questions to be answered (and, I’m not talking at all about the media antics revolving around the supposed Beckham/Donovan war of words).
Coming off a three game winning streak, the Galaxy were in a commanding lead by half-time, 3-nil. Goals scored by Eskandarian (3rd minute), Donovan (31st minute), and Lewis (45th minute) showed that the players are growing more confident and this reflects in their abilities to take chances. Either Eskandarian or Donovan should win goal of the week. The defense did a great job of staying organized and containing the overlapping runs of Jorge Rojas and Juan Pablo Angel. In addition to some outstanding saves by Donovan Ricketts in goal (man of the match, in my opinion), I can’t help but think that the defense is bolstered by knowing that there is such an outstanding net minder behind them.
Even though Beckham was not match fit, there was a noticeable difference in the way the team played with him on the field. I was more anxious to see how newly acquired Chris Birchall would do for the team. Having big man Edson Buddle and speedy Eskandarian up front were sure-fire targets for Beckham’s long passes over the top. This is a weapon put to good use when the opponent is someone like New York (and, by the way, a preseason, less-than-fit AC Milan). Birchall came in for Beckham in the 70th minute and showcased a “muscle-in-the-middle” mentality as well as some nice distribution that will be required for more daunting opponents. He will be a better asset to this team that Beckham’s long balls but you probably won’t hear that from Max Bretos or Christopher Sullivan on FSC.
The team is looking much better and more cohesive that they’ve looked in a long time. This is clearly a new direction for the LA Galaxy. However, something still lingers.
