26 Days Until First Kick!

It seems like only yesterday we were singing and yelling at the Home Depot Center during MLS Cup 2012. One side of the stadium yelling, "DAVID!" as the opposite end replied, "BECKHAM!" That ball in from Juninho. That jumping header from Omar Gonzalez. The energy that sparked a comeback victory by the LA Galaxy over the Houston Dynamo for a second straight season. But that is all legend now. It's time to lace up the boots and start training camp for another run the title.

During the next (thankfully) few weeks, I will preview the 2013 MLS season with a recap on transfer news, SuperDraft rookies, and expectations of all kind. Also, I'll keep an eye on the difficult task ahead of the US Men's National Team as they begin the final round of World Cup Qualification matches en route to Brasil 2014. "The Hex" begins tomorrow for the red, white and blue as they face the daunting task of playing in Honduras in San Pedro Sula. A balanced squad of Euro based players and MLS stars must prove they can fight the battle that lies ahead of them as a squad united.

 Can I kick it in 2013?! YES YOU CAN!

LA Galaxy v. Portland Timbers - 4/23/11 Home Depot Center

MLS is evolving. The level of play and the passion of the fans continue to grow with each season. Leading the way, are the big market teams such as New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles. But newcomers Portland and Vancouver are impressing with their loyal, traveling fan base.

Saturday night in Carson, CA the Home Depot Center hosted the Portland Timbers in a nationally broadcast match. Landon Donovan returned to action and the Angel City Brigade supporters club welcomed him back with a strong showing, flags waving and drums pounding.

Chad Barrett scored the opener on a breakaway from a Beckham/Donovan combination. Then, later in the first half, the captain Landon Donovan converted from the spot to make it 2-0 for the Western Conference leading Galaxy. Donovan scored his second goal of the season and the night in the second half with a snap header.

The Timbers had some great chances, not at all rolling over at the Galaxy's boots, but goalkeeper Donovan Ricketts had some key saves to preserve the free chicken coupons for the Los Angeles crowd.

With flags waving proudly and supporters clubs springing up in local stadiums, American Soccer is taking its next step toward top tier, world-class football. With increased fan support comes inspired play.




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