Los Angeles Galaxy Prepare for Chivas USA & MLS Playoffs

Carson, California -- Following the hard work of leaders Landon Donovan, David Beckham, and Edson Buddle, the Galaxy trained this week to face Chivas USA, their upcoming opponent in a Sunday rematch of the 2009 Western Conference Playoffs.

The Galaxy players put in the necessary work at Friday's practice, explaining afterward that any game against their in-town rival is a tough and physical battle for which they must be ready, especially after knocking Chivas USA out of the playoffs last season.

Additionally, the Galaxy are looking to Sunday’s game as the completion of another step toward winning this year’s Supporters’ Shield in the MLS, and to redemption after losing the MLS Cup in Seattle last season by a penalty kick.

Omar Gonzalez talked in the press conference following the team’s practice on Friday about how he and the Galaxy have learned from last season’s MLS Cup loss. He went on to state that the team has become mentally tougher as a result, a belief echoed by Landon Donovan as well.

TheDailySportsHerald also had a chance to speak with Edson Buddle, who pointed out that the Galaxy have faced the best effort from each of their opponents this year because they have a target on their backs after entering the 2010 MLS season as the reigning Western Conference Champions.

Although Buddle has been one of the best strikers in the MLS, a member of the U.S. National Team, and has won MLS honors, when asked of his next career goal his answer was simple: Win the 2010 MLS Cup.

I asked Landon Donovan after practice what was the team’s biggest concern about Chivas USA going into this weekend’s game. Landon stated that it would be "important" for the Galaxy to come out on Sunday and let their opponents know that the Galaxy are the team heading to the playoffs. Otherwise, Chivas USA can approach this game with nothing to lose, since they are near elimination from the playoff race in the Western Conference.

The road to the MLS Title continues for the Galaxy on Sunday against Chivas USA, a game that can be seen on ESPN2 at 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time.

By Brian Kowalski
Contributing Writer to TheDailySportsHerald.com