Once young aspiring players are drafted from the MLS SuperDraft and

Supplemental Draft into the Professional MLS teams, it is not the end but the

beginning of an all-out war to battle it out in pre-season training and matches.

A typical MLS First Team Roster is made up of 30 players, who have received the

offer to sign professional contracts with the MLS Team. Let us have a closer look

at the 2012 Draft Picks of LA Galaxy.

7 players were drafted into LA Galaxy for the Season 2012, with the MLS Rights

of the players belonging to LA Galaxy as well. The players are Bill Gaudette,

Bryan Gaul, Stephen Posa, Justin Davies, Rafael Garcia, Yuri Gorentzvaig,

Tommy Meyer and Kenney Walker. 2 of the 7 has been released by LA Galaxy,

Midfielder Stephen Posa and Brazilian Yuri Gorentzvaig. (I felt it was a pity that

LA Galaxy released this talented young Brazilian, but I guess the Foreign Player

slots has been used up with the return of fellow Brazilians, Juninho and

Leonardo.)

In most cases, the MLS SuperDraft picks will be safe from the axe. In a quick recap,

LA Galaxy picked up Defender Tommy Meyer and Midfielder Kenney Walker in

2012. Both have received good reviews from Head Coach Bruce Arena himself, and

will also be featured in his future plans.

I am expecting 1 more player to be cut from the current LA Galaxy team roster.

It could be one of the older fringe players, or the one of the new wannabe Draftees

of 2012. Wild Guesses, anyone?

The Cut from LA Galaxy - WHO's NEXT???

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2012 Season Opene ...After LA Galaxy's 3 opening matches during the Regular Season 2012, I must say that the Road to Defending ... Disagreement with ...I just read the article from Bleach Report, with a rather Brief Analysis of the performance of David Beckham. ... The Amazing Feats ...Personally, I flipped through the old MLS records of David Beckham, ever since he signed on for LA Galaxy ... The Deadliest Bec ...Mike Magee finished with a right footed shot, scoring the second goal of LA Galaxy's 2-0 victory over Real ... LA Galaxy's Junin ...Right after training ends at Tucson Centre, LA Galaxy's Juninho returned back to his hotel room and took some ...

Landon Donovan is scoring for Everton since he joined the club on loan, two months ago.

Donovan have not been banging in goals, but he came up BIG with an invaluable assist,

helping Everton secure 2-0 victory, and precious points in the Premier League. This is

a follow-up from BeckhamGalaxy’s earlier post,

Premier League Exploits by LA Galaxy Players.

An assist to a goal by Darren Gibson led Everton to a 1-0 victory over BPL leaders

Manchester City. There is no wonder Everton is trying their best to negotiate an extension

of Landon Donovan’s loan till April 15.

Check out the ASSISTS CHART of Landon Donovan after joining Everton.

The Assists Chart of Landon Donovan

It was another Déjà vu experience, Landon Donovan came up big with an assist as well in

his previous 2010 loan, in Everton’s match against Chelsea, helping to secure a 2-1

victory. Donovan may yet have a hand in giving Chelsea an excuse to sack Andre-Villas

Boas for their recent slump. In meeting Robbie Keane and Aston Villa, Landon Donovan

was a huge influence in contributing an assist to salvage a point for Everton.

Landon Donovan has yet to score a goal in the Premier League this season. Last season,

Everton missed out on the chance to sign Landon due to insufficient funds. LA Galaxy fans

will be thankful that this time Landon transfer to Everton is not permanent, due to a similar

financial situation. That, and the fact that Everton brought back Steven Pienaar, further

quashed any potential transfer move away from LA Galaxy.

According to the terms of the loan, Landon is expected to be reporting back to LA Galaxy

by March 7. The matches in which Landon can play in are the FA Cup Round 5 match

against Blackpool, on February 18, and another BPL away match against QPR on

March 7.

Landon Expressed His Desire to Stay?

Landon has expressed his desire to stay and help Everton until the end of the season in

April 15. LA Galaxy’s first match of the season begins with the CONCACAF Champions

League Quarterfinal match versus Toronto FC on March 7.

Will Landon Donovan be back by then?

Landon Donovan, on the possibility of extending loan stay

“Both Everton and the Galaxy know I would like to stay, but logistically it is

harder than just saying I want to or I am going to stay. There are a lot of

factors involved, and we will see what the Galaxy want. I think we will

have a lot more information this week.”

And if the loan is extended,

Will LA Galaxy be able to cope with the absence of Landon Donovan?

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2012 Season Opene ...After LA Galaxy's 3 opening matches during the Regular Season 2012, I must say that the Road to Defending ... Disagreement with ...I just read the article from Bleach Report, with a rather Brief Analysis of the performance of David Beckham. ... The Amazing Feats ...Personally, I flipped through the old MLS records of David Beckham, ever since he signed on for LA Galaxy ... The Deadliest Bec ...Mike Magee finished with a right footed shot, scoring the second goal of LA Galaxy's 2-0 victory over Real ... LA Galaxy's Junin ...Right after training ends at Tucson Centre, LA Galaxy's Juninho returned back to his hotel room and took some ...

The Two-Way Midfielders of LA Galaxy

LA Galaxy has no shortages in the center of midfield, with so many able bodies

capable of playing the ball in central midfield. The above diagram explained

perfectly what defines a two-way midfielder. A two-way midfielder is …….

“A versatile midfielder who is responsible for organizing play in midfield area.

He is often regarded as the team’s energetic leader.”

 

Besides Beckham, I will roll out the names of the rest of LA Galaxy’s Two-Way

Midfielders:

Michael Stephens, Samba Juninho (YES, HE’S BACK!!!), Kenney Walker,

Kyle Beckerman, Fellow Samba Marcelo Sarvas and Dan Keat.

Wealth in Central Midfield, Poverty in The Wings

With a wealth of two-way midfielders at Bruce Arena’s disposal, the rest of the MLS

teams are definitely envious of the depth in LA Galaxy. There is plenty of options

for Bruce Arena to consider, but he will need to choose the best men to line up before

the start of the whistle.

Bruce Arena on being over-loaded with two-way midfielders

“With the CONCACAF Champions League and Sarvas cup-tied, it’s important

to have Juninho here,” Arena said. “Beckham and possibly Stephens could

be gone to the Olympics, we need that position to be a position with depth and

quality and I think we have that now.”

 

Bruce Arena has a selection headache, and it is a good problem that most MLS managers

will rather have. It is a pity that Chris Birchall has decided to find a career in England

and has ruled out any chances of a return. In Birchall’s absence, Michael Stephens and

New Zealander Dan Keat looks set to step up to become able back-ups. Kyle Nakazawa

also has much to offer with his MLS playing experience, having played regularly for

Philadelphia Union in spite of his youth. Samba compatriots, Marcelos Sarvas and

Juninho, are among the front-runners to partner Beckham regularly in the center of

midfield.

In the event of losing Stephens and Beckham to the 2012 Olympics and Sarvas being

cup-tied, Kyle Nakazawa and Juninho will most likely be pairing up to hold the fort

in midfield. Rafael Garcia and Defensive player Kenney Walker are waiting in the

wings, but the MLS Draftees will need to first prove that they are worthy enough to

be included into the final team roster.

Argentinian Winger Miguel Lopez won’t be back at LA Galaxy, as he would be

returning back to Argentinian side Quilmes. Home-Grown player Jose Villareal is

out injured, with only Paolo Cardozo, Mike Magee and Landon Donovan the only

players who can play on the wing. Without wingers to run with the ball down the

channels, LA Galaxy will be playing with litlte width and will be making most of

the plays down the middle. This makes the playbook of LA Galaxy very predictable.

In fact, it falls flat and is dangerously one-dimensional. If the need arises, Beckham

may be called upon to play on the right side, where he has been dishing out

dangerous crosses for his teammates to score from his assists.

Midfielders who can play in Multiple Positions

Bruce Arena may look to convert some of the midfielders into wingers, and to

include a training session for them to learn a new position. Bruce has been

known to deploy Birchall on the wings, even though his favored position is

in the center. Rafael Garcia, Kenney Walker and Dan Keat may be receiving

instructions to act as cover for the wings. Younger players are more “malleable”

in learning a new position as they also tend to pick up faster as well. One example

is Brek Shea of FC Dallas, who was converted from a defender into an explosive

and very effective winger.

Another way is to deploy a 4-3-3 formation instead of Bruce’s favored 4-4-2

formation. In the 4-3-3 position, with Juninho making defensive covers, Beckham

can then move to the right-side where he can often accurately cross or send long

-range passes cross-field. Marcelo Sarvas can be given a free role where he can

receive passes on the left wing and also to cut into the middle to shoot on goal or to

make a final pass.

With converted midfielders, LA Galaxy will not have to worry about shortages of

players on the wings. Playing with width and deploying wingers will be

advantageous to LA Galaxy, and also increase the chances of delivering accurate

crosses to Newly-Acquired Edson Buddle. In the recent Preseason Game versus

LA Blues, Paolo Cardozo has been effective on the wings and linked up well with

Adam Cristman. Cristman, who had not been clinical to a fault, was set up by

Cardozo to surprising finish with two goals in that friendly.

Depth in LA Galaxy Required for Hectic Schedule

LA Galaxy is overloaded with two-way midfielders, and the lack of wingers  can

be rather worrying. This will further restrict LA Galaxy to play the ball through

the middle and attempt through balls. The Defence of LA Galaxy has not played

convincingly in the absence of injured Omar Gonzalez, letting in six goals in the

last two Pre-Season Friendlies. In contrast, the LA Galaxy Defence led by Omar

Gonzalez has kept 41 clean sheets over three seasons.

Edson Buddle is Back. Juninho is Back, along with Leonardo returning

without LA Galaxy paying a single cent. There is reunion of familiar faces,

with LA Galaxy looking to keep as many of the old players playing together

as possible.

If LA Galaxy continues to let in goals at an alarming rate, one can look no

further than to ensure that the strike force of Edson Buddle and Robbie Keane

will be much, much more productive on the other end. I don’t mind if that

means more goals scored, as long as LA Galaxy is the one who is scoring more

goals and winning games.

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2012 Season Opene ...After LA Galaxy's 3 opening matches during the Regular Season 2012, I must say that the Road to Defending ... Disagreement with ...I just read the article from Bleach Report, with a rather Brief Analysis of the performance of David Beckham. ... The Amazing Feats ...Personally, I flipped through the old MLS records of David Beckham, ever since he signed on for LA Galaxy ... The Deadliest Bec ...Mike Magee finished with a right footed shot, scoring the second goal of LA Galaxy's 2-0 victory over Real ... LA Galaxy's Junin ...Right after training ends at Tucson Centre, LA Galaxy's Juninho returned back to his hotel room and took some ...

The 1st Major Headline since the inauguration of Beckham Galaxy in Nov 2011:

“Edson Buddle’s Reunion with LA Galaxy”

I can hear thousands of fans screaming along with the Headline.

You can also go to the page where you can download quality wallpaper of Edson

Buddle at the Official LA Galaxy Website.

And Yes! I will like to repeat again, HE’S BACK IN LA!!!

To feel the heat of Fan Fever in reaction to the Buddle move, just log onto twitter

with all the tweets about “LA Galaxy Signs Forward Buddle” getting retweets.

Check out the number of re-tweets! And of course, LA Galaxy’s #14 Jersey has

found back its rightful owner.

Check out the Re-Tweets by @Beckgalaxy (Me) and 114 others

For those of you with Old #14 Jerseys, it’s time for you to dust them off.

Guess who’s back?

L.A. #14′s BACK!!!

For some of you who wish to reminisce the goals scored by Buddle for

LA Galaxy, there is the old MLS Youtube Video of all the Buddle Goals

scored during Season 2010, uploaded by @classifiedblind.

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2012 Season Opene ...After LA Galaxy's 3 opening matches during the Regular Season 2012, I must say that the Road to Defending ... Disagreement with ...I just read the article from Bleach Report, with a rather Brief Analysis of the performance of David Beckham. ... The Amazing Feats ...Personally, I flipped through the old MLS records of David Beckham, ever since he signed on for LA Galaxy ... The Deadliest Bec ...Mike Magee finished with a right footed shot, scoring the second goal of LA Galaxy's 2-0 victory over Real ... LA Galaxy's Junin ...Right after training ends at Tucson Centre, LA Galaxy's Juninho returned back to his hotel room and took some ...

When LA Galaxy’s first Pre-season training started rolling out, a few players were

away for international duties. A.J. DeLaGarza was called up by Klinnsmann to

the USMNT, Michael Stephens and Brian Perks to the U-23 squad, also known as

the Olympics Team, with a possible matchup with David Beckham and the GB

Olympics Team, (should Beckham be included.) I’d think so, though Beckham

has humbly declared himself as one of the GB Olympics hopeful.

A.J DeLaGarza was a regular feature in Klinnsmann squad, in international

friendlies sparring with Venezuela and Panama. DeLaGarza had a successful

runout and was given the full 90 minutes. In both games with DeLaGarza

defending as rightback, USMNT managed to maintain clean sheets, and it was

the offensive end that the National team has to work out on. Venezuela and

Panama are weaker opposition sides, compared to heavyweight Mexico. Well,

bear in mind that this squad is made up of players plying their trade in the

MLS, and it will be a team with different players who are playing in Europe,

should this be the World Cup Qualifiers.

A.J was often played as a centerback, partnering with Omar Gonzalez to keep

a lockdown on clean sheets, and was a big part of LA Galaxy’s successful MLS

Cup run. A.J has shown versatility by being able to play anywhere on the

defensive line, and while he played as rightback in friendlies, he will most

likely be assigned the LA Galaxy’s Centerback role. The only question lies

is who is going to partner him, with Gonzalez out for the rest of the new season.

Caleb Porter called up midfielder Michael Stephens and Goalkeeper Brian Perks

for the U-23 January camp, and will most likely to be called up for another camp

in February before the Olympics Qualifying Games in March. Brian Perks earned

his first invite by Caleb Porter and will be looking to impress Porter in a bid to

gain the starting Goalkeeper spot. With Porter looking to continuity and less of

experimenting, Stephens and Perks will be looking forward to another Call-Up.

Michael Stephens will also be likely to have more first-team opportunities in the

midfield, with Juninho returning back to Sao Paulo and Chris Birchall out of

contract.

“I think it’s going to be a big year for me,” he said. “Obviously losing Juninho

hurts, and I don’t know what’s up with Birchall. He’s not here right now.”

 

“There’s going to be a lot of opportunities, and I want to take as many of them

as I can and have a better year than last year and get more playing time than

last year. I’m definitely ready to go.”

 

Into his third season with LA Galaxy, Michael Stephens has played in a total of 50 games,

scoring once and creating 9 assists along the way. Stephens is certainly improving as

player and I am looking forward to seeing him gaining more minutes on the field.

However, LA Galaxy will be missing out on both Stephens and Perks, should they be

included in the Porter’s final squad to compete in the Olympics.

Goalkeeper Brian Perks starts his first training at LA Galaxy, and is one of the new faces

appearing for Pre-Season training at Home Depot Center. Perks looks set to provide

additional cover, and he is most likely behind the pecking order of Josh Saunders and

Nick Noble. One of the highlights of his career is starting in goal on his MLS debut,

keeping a clean sheet and saving a Freddy Montero penalty. To see how difficult it is to

save a Freddy Montero penalty, watch Freddy Montero’s goal being the first nominee

for Goal of the Year Video.

It is great to see that A.J DeLaGarza, Michael Stephens and Brian Perks back in LA from

international duties, and most importantly, free from international duties. The LA Galaxy

is seriously undermanned, and every player, from starting 11 right down to the

substitutes and backups are all important as the Galaxy is going to compete in a hectic

schedule of games spread across 4 tournaments. It will be 5 for the Club World Cup,

should they win the CONCACAF Champions League.

My fingers are crossed for Landon Donovan and Robbie Keane playing abroad.

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On the first day of LA Galaxy’s Pre-Season training, 14 New Faces turned up with

the rest of the Old Vanguards. Along with new changes to the Galaxy team roster,

there are new changes to the jersey numbers. Most notably, Chad Barrett will

receive the #19 jersey which was made available with Juninho’s departure. Chad

had stated that he would rather have Juninho back though.

LA Galaxy’s Title Defence is further bolstered with David Beckham re-signing with

a new 2-year contract. Apparently, Beckham wished to continue what he had started

in promoting American soccer and the MLS. Beckham is also determined to do his

best to ensure that the MLS Cup will stay put on LA Galaxy’s soil.

The following are the new additions to the squad: Andrew Boyens (DF), Nick Noble (GK),

Pat Noonan (FW), Marcelos Sarvas (MF), Jose Villareal (MF), Tommy Meyer (DF),

Kenny Walker (MF), Bryan Gaul (DF), Rafael Garcia (MF), Yuri Gorentzaig (FW),

Stephen Posa (FW) and Justin Davies (DF). There were also two players who were on

trial, Bill Gaudette and J.T Murray.

(From Left) Galaxy President Tim Leiweke, David Beckham and Manager Bruce Arena at the Press Conference

As to the news of the South American players, the loan of Brazilian Leonardo to LA

Galaxy has been extended and fans can expect him back for the new season. The

contract details of Paolo Cardozo from Quilmes is not yet confirmed, but LA Galaxy

is looking forward to adding Cardozo into the roster. On the other hand,

Argentinian Miguel Lopez has returned back to Quilmes with the Quilmes coach

having decided that Lopez still figures in his plans.

In comes the Young, and Out goes with the Old. LA Galaxy has decided to release

the veteran defenders, Dasan Robinson and Frankie Hejduk. Jovan Kirovski has

decided to hang up his playing boots and to take up the Assistant Coaching position

at LA Galaxy. The new young players at LA Galaxy looks set to tap on Kirovski’s

playing experience, which spans from beginning as a Manchester United trainee

with David Beckham, Neville brothers, Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes. Kiroski was

also the first American to win the Champions League with German club,

Borussia Dortmund and also the first American to score in the competition as well.

Check the complete Team Roster of LA Galaxy here.

Bruce Arena has stated that the Team Roster is not yet finalized. The question

is still open as to whether the Draftees from the MLS SuperDraft and

Supplementary Draft will be able to make it for the final cut. The Starting

1st 11 is also not concluded until the end of the Pre-Season. Bruce is like to

tinker with the line-ups and experiment around a little, in a bid to see how the

old and new members will gel and to strengthen the chemistry among

the players. I can’t wait to see Bruce’s masterplan unveil in the upcoming

FC Tucson Desert Cup.

Curious to Know who’s Bill Gaudette and J.T Murray?

Currently at age 30, Bill Gaudette has been playing as a goalkeeper and last

played for Columbus during his third season in 2007. Gaudette also played

for three years at Puerto Rico Islanders and was part of the team that won

against LA Galaxy in the preliminary round of the 2010/2011

CONCACAF Champions League. Last Season, he played for Montreal Impact,

who is turning up as the new 19th MLS Club for the upcoming season.

J.T Murray, 23,  entered the MLS scene as a second-round selection by Kansas

City, but he missed the cut on the roster and played for Sevilla FC Puerto Rico

until the club was booted out Third Division USL Pro. Murray turned out for

University of Louisville, and was instrumental in helping the team to the

NCAA final.

LA Galaxy’s Injured Players and Counting

DF Omar Gonzalez, out with ACL rehabilitation

DF Leonardo, out with knee injury

DF Sean Alvarado, out with injury (unconfirmed)

DF Justin Davies, out with left ankle sprain

FW Chad Barrett, out and recovering from dislocated right foot

There is no wonder that the word is out that LA Galaxy is looking for a able

defensive reinforcement, if one is to look at the number of defenders out

injured. Leeds United Defender Alex Bruce, son of former Sunderland Manager

Steve Bruce, is in the shortlist of LA Galaxy.

I am crossing my fingers that the two LA Galaxy players abroad, Landon Donovan

and Robbie Keane, will return safely back to LA injury-free. Please don’t join the

Injured List.

Mike Magee, The Valet Gonzalez secured to walk his dogs and hold his drink

The Jury is still out for the newcomers, as to whether they will make it for the

final cut. Much of this will depend on their performances during training and

pre-season matches. On a positive note, LA Galaxy will benefit from the coaching

support of Jovan Kirovski and he will be helping Bruce in the capacity as Assistant

Manager. LA Galaxy will need to finalize their final team roster and starting 11

selection soon. The clock is ticking.

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2012 Season Opene ...After LA Galaxy's 3 opening matches during the Regular Season 2012, I must say that the Road to Defending ... Disagreement with ...I just read the article from Bleach Report, with a rather Brief Analysis of the performance of David Beckham. ... The Amazing Feats ...Personally, I flipped through the old MLS records of David Beckham, ever since he signed on for LA Galaxy ... The Deadliest Bec ...Mike Magee finished with a right footed shot, scoring the second goal of LA Galaxy's 2-0 victory over Real ... LA Galaxy's Junin ...Right after training ends at Tucson Centre, LA Galaxy's Juninho returned back to his hotel room and took some ...

This year, LA Galaxy players are plying their trade while on official loan

from the MLS Club. Landon Donovan is off to Everton. Robbie Keane is off

to Aston Villa. Omar Gonzalez not to Premier League, but to the German

League, nearly.

I think it is great that Landon Donovan and Robbie Keane has proven

themselves that they do have what it takes to play on the English

Premier League stage. This will keep both forwards sharp, focused and

fit when they return beck to the club at the end of the loan.

Robbie Keane and Landon Donovan on Loan

Landon Donovan has been contributing with valuable assists, earning

lavishing praises from David Moyes. In the match against

Aston Villa, Donovan was running at full speed towards the Aston Villa

defenders before making a wonderful pass to Anichebe to slot the ball

into the net. David Moyes has rated that as the Man of the Match

performance. Toffees fans were giving thanks to LA Galaxy for loaning

out Donovan to them.

Donovan is not alone. In the Aston Villa vs Everton match, there was the potential

face-off between Donovan and Keane, though Keane made minimal impact in the

game. In Aston Villa’s following match against, Keane showed what a clinical class

of striker he is with two goals, one of which turned out to be the match winner. You

still can catch a glimpse of amateur camera shots of the television itself, showing

Robbie Keane’s screamer goal winner against Wolves on Youtube. (Actual match

replays are removed due to copyright issues.)

As a featured treat from LA Galaxy, check out all the 2011 goals scored by LA

Galaxy players, including Robbie Keane, Landon Donovan and David Beckham.

[Official Media by MLS, Major League Soccer]

Many fans are worried about LA Galaxy’s players ending up injured during loans,

as in the precedent cases of David Beckham’s Achilles Injury and Omar Gonzalez’s

ACL Injury. I think Bruce Arena has explained perfectly that the injuries are really

unfortunate incidents, and it can happen whether the players are home or abroad.

The pre-season training has started with Landon Donovan and Robbie Keane away

from loans. One question that Bruce needs to address. Who will be the ones replacing

Keane when he is away to Euro 2012 and Beckham, when he gets selected to the

GB Olympics Team? And let’s not forget, Omar Gonzalez as well.

Undermanned LA Galaxy will need all of the star players back…….

Injury-Free.

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2012 Season Opene ...After LA Galaxy's 3 opening matches during the Regular Season 2012, I must say that the Road to Defending ... Disagreement with ...I just read the article from Bleach Report, with a rather Brief Analysis of the performance of David Beckham. ... The Amazing Feats ...Personally, I flipped through the old MLS records of David Beckham, ever since he signed on for LA Galaxy ... The Deadliest Bec ...Mike Magee finished with a right footed shot, scoring the second goal of LA Galaxy's 2-0 victory over Real ... LA Galaxy's Junin ...Right after training ends at Tucson Centre, LA Galaxy's Juninho returned back to his hotel room and took some ...

BeckhamGalaxy flips through the fixtures and results of LA Galaxy for 2011and

identified the top 5 MLS Dangermen who played for MLS sides that caused problems

to the 2011 MLS Cup Champion.

Find out which MLS player made it  in the Countdown to the Top 5.

Countdown to…….

#5. Luke Rodgers of New York Red Bulls

Luke Rodgers Celebrating A Goal against LA Galaxy

In one of the regular 2011 match fixture, New York versus LA Galaxy, the Red Bulls

forward Luke Rodgers opened the scoring by netting a goal in the 32nd minute. The

match ended with a one-sided defeat, 2-0 to the New Yorkers. Before the start of the

Playoffs, LA Galaxy was dealt with both defeats when facing Red Bulls in the

Regular Season.

In the Western Conference Semi Finals, 2nd Leg, Home Depot Center, LA Galaxy leads

the Red Bulls with a 1-0 lead, carried over from the 1st Leg. Rodgers threatened to

overturn the tide by opening the scoring early with a 4th-min goal. It was only due

to the calm of nerves that the LA Galaxy took control of the match and clinched the

match with goals from Mike Magee and Landon Donovan.

#4. Brek Shea of FC Dallas

A talented midfielder, Brek Shea netted a goal in the 88th-min, to deal LA Galaxy a

defeat in the FC Dallas home game. LA Galaxy would have thought that they did

enough to gain at least a point in the match. That is, until Brek Shea’s individual

moment of Brilliance.

There is a reason why Arsene Wenger and Arsenal gave Brek Shea a chance to

train with them during the MLS Off-season.

And what’s more, he is only 21 this year.

#3. Brad Davis of Houston Dynamo

Brad Davis Troubling LA Galaxy with His Assists

Ok. He did not score in any of the matches when LA Galaxy played against Houston

Dynamo. But it was not the goals that cause Brad Davis to make it in the Top 5 list.

He is the only MLS player to top off David Beckham in the MLS Assist Chart, with

a record of 16 assists dished out. 2 of them came in the match played against LA Galaxy,

with Carlos Costly and Bobby Boswell heading in the crosses from his free kick and

corner kick. The Final Score, Houston Dynamo 3 LA Galaxy 1.

LA Galaxy fans were thankful that Brad Davis did not make it for the MLS Cup Final.

Maybe, the MLS Cup Final result will have been in Dynamo’s favor.

Maybe.

#2. Thierry Henry of New York Red Bulls

New York Hitman, Thierry Henry

New York Red Bulls’ Luke Rodgers was mentioned earlier. But it was his colleague,

former Barcelona and Arsenal striker Thierry Henry who gained the honor of

winning the Second spot.

Thierry Henry was the Designated Player for New York Red Bulls, and I must say

that he deserved the DP wages that is on offer. Look at his performances against

LA Galaxy, and let me know otherwise.

LA Galaxy 1-1 New York Red Bulls, New York Red Bulls 2-0 LA Galaxy.

A goal early in the 4th minute to help New York to earn a draw against LA Galaxy, HDC.

It took a goal from LA Galaxy captain, Landon Donovan to settle a tie. Not to mention

the Henry played a part in New York’s Home game by contributing a goal, and a one

-sided 2-0 defeat.

#1. Javier Morales of Real Salt Lake (Real Salt Lake 4-1 LA Galaxy)

#1 MLS Hitman, Javier Morales

It was one of the heaviest defeat LA Galaxy suffered during the 2011 season. In

spite of possessing one of the stingiest MLS defence, LA Galaxy was unable to stop

Javier Morales and his match-winning performance. In the single match alone,

LA Galaxy let in the most number of goals (4) for the season. 2 of them were goals

scored by Morales himself, and 1 of them was a Morales assist.

The LA Defence was just not able to cope with Argentinian Javier Morales that

night.

His assist, goals and man of the match performance is enough to gain points for

Javier Morales to clinch the Top Spot of “MLS Dangermen”. Did I not mention

that Javier Morales won the honor of dishing out the fastest assist in MLS history,

40s into his MLS Debut. WOW.

———————————————————————————————————-

Is there any players in your mind that did not make it into the Top 5 List?

Give them an honorable mention in the comments below.

Take note:

The above opinion and Top 5 List remains that of the writer’s and within

BeckhamGalaxy, and is not in any way, officially from LA Galaxy or the MLS.

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2012 Season Opene ...After LA Galaxy's 3 opening matches during the Regular Season 2012, I must say that the Road to Defending ... Disagreement with ...I just read the article from Bleach Report, with a rather Brief Analysis of the performance of David Beckham. ... The Amazing Feats ...Personally, I flipped through the old MLS records of David Beckham, ever since he signed on for LA Galaxy ... The Deadliest Bec ...Mike Magee finished with a right footed shot, scoring the second goal of LA Galaxy's 2-0 victory over Real ... LA Galaxy's Junin ...Right after training ends at Tucson Centre, LA Galaxy's Juninho returned back to his hotel room and took some ...

LA Galaxy fans, catch CONCACAF Champions League action, starting first on

March 7 and 14, with electrifying Showdown with Toronto FC beginning at

TFC homeground, Rogers Centre. Mark your calendars……

Toronto FC vs LA Galaxy

Wednesday, Mar 7, 8.00pm EST, Rogers Centre

LA Galaxy vs Toronto FC

Wednesday, Mar 14, 7.00pm EDT, Home Depot Center

BeckhamGalaxy Scouts out Toronto FC

Earlier, BeckhamGalaxy scouts came back with reports of a Shortlist of

players for LA Galaxy’s drafting considerations. Two of the players,

Luis Silva and Aaron Maund both landed at Toronto FC. It is possible that

these two Draft picks may be given the Coach’s confidence and thrown

into the gauntlet to test their skills against LA Galaxy. Luis Silva, for one,

is a skilful winger who can really make dangerous runs with the ball.

Click here to view BeckhamGalaxy’s Scouting Report for 2012 MLS SuperDraft.

Veterans of Toronto will need to be kept an eye on. Torsten Frings of Germany,

Joao Plata of Ecuador and Canada’s very own son, Julian De Guzman are some

of the key players that LA Galaxy have to watch out for. Former LA Galaxy

defender Ty Harden will be seeing familiar faces of former colleagues on the pitch,

with so much at stake in a CCL match (Mark My Words), the friendship ends with

the blow of the whistle.

Canadian Sharpshooters

Well, they are not exactly Canadians, but I guess you have to give them credit

for their knack of scoring goals under cold weather conditions.

Toronto Top Scorers’ Chart for 2011

Danny Koevermans          8 goals

Maicon Santos          6 goals

Alan Gordan          4 goals

Nick Soolsma      3 goals

Joao Plata          3 goals

Forward Maicon Santos and Alan Gordan have left Toronto FC. Julian De Guzman

earns a worthy mention, grabbing 2 goals for Toronto FC, which is not far from the

top 5 on the Scoring Charts. Dutchman Danny Koevermans not only leads the goal

scoring charts, but he also leads goal-shots percentages of 26.7% last season. Nearing

that is Alan Gordan (22.2%) and Dwayne De Rosario (16.7%). We have much to thank

for with Alan Gordan Dwayne De Rosario being former Toronto FC players.

Without Omar Gonzalez, who's marking Danny Koeversmans?

Hard Tackling Torsten and Ty

David Beckham and Marcelos Sarvas may find difficulty in finding space with Torsten

Frings looking to dominate in midfield.

Ty Harden will also look to make life difficult for Robbie Keane and any LA Galaxy

forwards.Ty Harden’s height of 6’1″ provides an advantage for Harden to knock

down and intercept any high balls to the penalty box. The chink in Ty Harden’s

defence is that the acceleration and pace of Robbie Keane will leave Harden standing.

The matchup of Robbie Keane versus Ty Harden should be interesting for fans to

anticipate.

Stefan Frei is definitely getting pumped for a clean sheet. A 0-0 goal-less draw

at home is advantageous to Toronto FC as they play in the return leg with

just a goal scored in a 1-0 win more than enough to see them through. LA Galaxy

have to solve their inconsistent scoring problem, or they will suffer. Goals past

Swiss Frei will make it comfortable for the LA Galaxy and settle the score,

before bringing the tie back home to Home Depot Center.

Zero Goals past Swiss Frei?

Full Roster of Toronto FC

GK Stefan Frei *

GK Milan Kosic

DF Adrain Cann

DF Andy Iro

DF Ty Harden

DF Doneil Henry

DF Richard Eckersley

DF Aaron Maund (#23 pick, MLS SuperDraft)

M/D Jeremy Hall

MF Reggie Lambe

MF Nicholas Lindsay

MF Peri Milosevic

MF Matt Stinson

MF Torsten Frings *

F/M Luis Silva (#4 pick, MLS SuperDraft) *

F/M Ryan Johnson

FW Danny Koeversmans *

FW Keih Makubuya

FW Joao Plata

FW Nick Soolsma

* Key Players that LA Galaxy have to look out for. Full  Toronto FC Line-up

does not include the picks from 2012 MLS Supplemental Draft, some of

whom may not make it to the team roster.

Torsten Frings Shows Mercy to None, Including Torres

Just like the picture above, Torsten Frings will grab every opportunity to stamp

his authority in the middle of the park. Beckham and LA Galaxy will have to

watch out. LA Galaxy will underestimate Toronto FC at their own peril.

Toronto FC. They are going to prove that they are no pushovers to LA Galaxy.

Any predictions of score and line-up?

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David Beckham, to re-sign or resign? That was the question that came popping up

when Beckham became a free agent on New Year’s Day after the end of his LA Galaxy

contract.

Insider sources pointed out that David Beckham will officially sign a new contract

with LA Galaxy this week, and it has been officially reported that David Beckham

will extend his stay with LA Galaxy for another two years.

On LA Galaxy’s Official Website,

“This was an important decision for me,” Galaxy midfielder David Beckham

said. “I had many offers from clubs from around the world, however, I’m

still passionate about playing in America and winning trophies with the

Galaxy.”

 

David Beckham and LA Galaxy will be holding a live press conference on 19 Jan,

2 pm PT. Not to forget about David Beckham’s Google+ Hangout at 10.30am PT.

LA Galaxy’s strongest competitor for Beckham’s signature is Paris St. Germain, the

French Lique 1 club that has a huge financial backing of Qatar oil barrels. PSG put

on the table an offer of 12 million Euros, which is more than double Beckham’s

MLS Annual Salary. Many had felt that the offer was too good to resist, with PSG

offering the prospects of European football and Champions League.

(That is, if PSG was to finish within top two.)

French Newspaper like the L’Quipe splashed headlines that Beckham has signed the

pre-contract agreement, only to be “caught with their skirt down” when the spokesman

for Beckham denied any agreement on Beckham’s part. BeckhamGalaxy came up with

with early reports of the “Beckham Deal”,

BeckhamGalaxy Scouts out LA Galaxy’s Beckham Deal

It wasn’t a done deal then, until now.

How important is family to Beckham?

Very important. It was important enough to give up millions to sign a lucrative

contract and retire with the money in the pocket. Family, was by far the first

and foremost priority in Beckham’s mind in consideration for signing a new

contract.

David has four children with Victoria, three sons, Brooklyn, Romeo, Cruz and

one daughter, Harper. All three sons have been schooling in LA for some time

and his children’s education is very important to him. He took a flight with his

three sons back to LA to make sure that they will be ready when school reopens,

while Victoria and Harper stayed back in England.

A family man. It describes David Beckham perfectly.

What’s coming up in the next two years?

David Beckham will continue to take up being the ambassador for the MLS, to

bring popularity to the league and also to continue to reach out to new fans,

domestically and internationally.

 “I’ve seen first hand how popular soccer is now in the States and I’m as

committed as ever to growing the game here,” he (Beckham) added. “My

family and I are incredibly happy and settled in America and we look

forward to spending many more years here.”

 

I think the role of “Ambassador of US Soccer” fits Beckham very well. I won’t be looking

too far ahead, there is the pre-season games and the CCL match that is coming up

against Toronto FC. It is a morale boost for the team and fans alike with Beckham to

count on as one of the key players to influence the game, especially with

Omar Gonzalez Out with ACL Injury. (And Juninho. And maybe Leonardo……..)

There is no denying the fact that England is where Beckham first calls Home.

LA is Beckham’s Second Home.

LA Galaxy fans welcomes David Beckham back with open arms.

And yes, thank you very much, David Beckham. My New Year Wish came true =)

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