CWhile the Galaxy have, since last year’s signing of David Beckham, become cynics’ poster child for a perceived crass culture of personality in American sports, there is no doubt that they have started the season well. With five matches played, the galaxy are currently in the second spot in the western conference, and with 8 goals, Landon Donovan currently sits atop the scoring charts. Donovan is arguably the most talented American attacking player of his generation, and his deft control, precise passing and blistering acceleration should have made him one of the most in demand players of his generation. Perhaps he made the move to Germany too soon in his career, but at 26 surely he must be thinking that his gifts deserve to be paraded on a finer stage.
Of course he and his team must own many thanks to Arsenal and Celtic target Brad Guzan. The higly rated goalkeeper fluffed his lines and was most clearly at fault for a goal that bobbled off the back of Alan Gordon’s head and into the back of the net. Surely the unfortunate Guzan’s stock must have fallen rapidly on Saturday night. Although woefully exposed time and again by a comedy defence, Guzan failed to show the nerve of a keeper determined to soldier on no matter how lost the cause. A few more matches like this, and there will surely be no summer move for the American, though perhaps a move to Europe in next January’s transfer window, or even next summer would be a small price to pay for another season of guaranteed first team football.
Here’s the highlights package, which includes Donovan’s clearest indication yet that he wishes to be counted amongst football’s very elite: his homage to Diego Maradona’s Hand of God goal.
