San Jose Earthquakes vs. LA Galaxy, 2012 MLS Cup Playoffs: Galaxy turn it around in 2nd leg, lead 3-1

The Goonies died. But in suitable Goonie fashion, the San Jose Earthqukes at least made it a bit of a spectacle with some late-game dramatics and plenty of intrigue along the way.

But the Earthquakes should not be written off so easily. This was, after all, one of the best regular seasons in MLS history. Their 66 points were the third highest total in the 17-year history of the league. Their plus-29 goal-difference was second only to the 1998 Galaxy team that managed to outscore their opponents by 41 goals.

MLS’s best team in the regular season fell and the odds on favorite to win MLS Cup were done. Their season was over and the best they could do was look forward to 2013. That is unless you are an Earthquakes fan.

Apparently taking on the team’s motto, the Earthquakes fans would not quit even when their season had finally and surprisingly ended in heartbreaking fashion. An hour after the final whistle and the end of a thrilling run, the Quakes fans were waiting outside the players’ exit to the locker room, scarves aloft, singing for their team.

The Earthquakes are only a goal down and late tallies are their thing, but now their backs are really against the wall. If they can’t find a goal, and this is their first playoffs with their current group, they are done.

There is still a long ways to go for LA, who are only tied now and are not in front and still playing the league’s best team away, but the early going changes this tie. All of a sudden the Galaxy have a chance.

Likely as a result of their fatigue, the Galaxy could not deviate from a set tactical pattern. Although the Galaxy has not been known for playing with width, they obviously use crosses from the flanks as a major component in their attack. Usually, they mix it up with play through the middle, short passing sequences, and long balls over opposing defenses. But probably as a result of their tired legs, they continually sent cross after cross from just outside the box. The problem was that San Jose not only knew what was coming from the Galaxy attack in the second half, they dealt with the crosses easily.

Looking ahead, it will be interesting to see how each team adjusts tactically. Obviously, there will be adjustments both due to injuries and because of the change of venue to Buck Shaw Stadium. The Galaxy will also have to open up and push for a goal because of the series deficit, while the Earthquakes have the luxury of putting their defensive duties first, at least until the Galaxy get a goal. What’s more, both sides will be playing on short rest.