MLS Columbus 1 - 1 Los Angeles

On August 15, in an emotionally charged match, the Los Angeles Galaxy and the Columbus Crew battled to a 1-1 draw. While the Crew came out inspired, the Galaxy were slow to warm up. However, in the end, some close calls and great saves kept the score even. Here are my thoughts on the match.

Keane Continues to Score

After watching the first half, I figured if anyone was going to score from our side, it would be Robbie Keane. In the first half, Keane got around the defense several times but couldn't finish. However, in the 64th minute, Michael Stephens sent a ball behind the Crew's defense. Sean Franklin continued towards the goal, nutmegged Dilly Duka and then crossed it to Keane who easily scored his 11th goal of the season.

Nice Tribute to Kirk Urso

At the beginning of August, Crew player Kirk Urso died unexpectedly. The Crew postponed their August 11 game against Toronto FC to go to his funeral. The game against the Galaxy was the first game they had played since the tragedy. Before the game, there was a video tribute and there was a big No. 15 on the field. In the 15th minute, the entire stadium went silent and "Amazing Grace" was played. The Crew also honored Urso with their passionate performance on the field. Columbus had 20 attempts on goal and were the dominate team in the first half.

We Missed Donovan and Beckham

Due to a call up to the U.S. Men's National Team, Landon Donovan missed the league game to play in a friendly against Mexico. Our team missed Donovan's agility and our offense had less punch. Due to his involvement in the Olympics, Beckham has had a busy schedule lately. The 37-year-old was at the closing ceremony on August 12. As for his absence from the game, Arena said, Beckham "needs to get settled back in and get his legs back." With Donovan and Beckham gone, Juninho and Marcelo Sarvas took the corner kicks. Overall, I think we lacked precision on the set pieces.

Saunders Missed One but Had some Big Saves

I was surprised when Jairo Arrieta's goal rolled in. It wasn't a spectacular shot. Even though Saunders got a piece of it, the ball still managed to make its way into the corner. Yet, despite this mistake Saunders redeemed himself and made three important saves to keep the score level. One notable save was against former Galaxy player Chris Birchall who took a shot from a distance in the 37th minute. In stoppage time, Crew keeper Andy Gruenebaum saved Jose Villarreal's blast to preserve the 1-1 score.

The draw gives the Galaxy 37 points. The Seattle Sounders and the Vancouver Whitecaps also have 37 points but have played fewer games. The Galaxy have a week off before playing Isidro Metapan in the CONCACAF Champions League on August 23.