Without David Beckham the Los Angeles Galaxy needed other players to step up if they were to go to PPL Park and beat the Philadelphia Union. That could have meant that lesser-known players like Juninho or Michael Stephens stepped forward or even a big name player like Juan Pablo Angel, who has been struggling. Instead, the Galaxy got one of their stars to step up as Landon Donovan went from hot to hotter with a goal that has the visitors ahead 1-0 at halftime.
Philadelphia Union Vs. LA Galaxy: Landon Donovan Goal Has LA Ahead At Half
A good team goal that saw Juninho, Sean Franklin and Angel all play parts to set up Donovan finished with the American international scoring on an awkward, but still effective strike in the 24th minute. A goal, any goal, was a welcome sight for the Galaxy, whose only goals in their two previous matches came on Beckham set pieces.
The Union have struggled to generate much of an attack this season and down a goal, they still couldn't find a ton going forward. Last year's MVP candidate, Sebastien Le Toux, has just one goal and one assist on the season. He's gotten involved early in the match and has his share of touches, but a back heel that set up a half-chance is the closest he's come to orchestrating the Union attack the way he did a year ago.
Before long the Union will be forced to make a change for a more potent attack. That will likely be by bringing Danny Mwanga into the match, although that may not be enough. While LA is susceptible to mental mistakes at the back, they have defended one-goal leads well since Bruce Arena took over and will once again look to shut this match down in hopes of grabbing three road points.
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