LA Galaxy defeat Chivas USA, 3-0

If soccer fans ever want to see two MLS franchises operating at opposite extremes of the spectrum, they need look no further than Sunday's SuperClasico between the Los Angeles Galaxy and Chivas USA.

Similar to the Lakers-Clippers rivalry over the years, the Galaxy is a glamour franchise with a championship pedigree and several star players sprinkled throughout its roster, while Chivas USA has been the poster child for organizational dysfunction, as the league itself had to take over operation of the team this season.

So on Sunday afternoon at the StubHub Center, things went as expected, with Chivas USA falling 3-0 to the visiting LA Galaxy in the first leg of the SuperClásico.  LA was led by first-half scores from star Robbie Keane and Stefan Ishizaki.   Baggio Husidic’s second-half strike inside the left post in the 56th minute provided the final margin of victory.

In the 37th minute, defender Dan Gargan headed a ball into the short area from the right side of the box intended for Keane. As goalkeeper Dan Kennedy came off his line to break up the pass, the ball had enough force behind it after a small collision to go into the net for a 1-0 LA lead.

Five minutes later, LA struck again when Ishizaki took control of a pass from Juninho behind the arc and made a run toward the end line, sending his floater over Kennedy and into the netting.

The Rojiblancos generated a late chance in the 81st minute when Mauro Rosales crossed the ball from his right wing spot to midfielder Carlos Alvarez for a one-time volley, but Galaxy keeper Brian Perk was able to collect the shot. A minute later, Rosales again looked to cross, but the Red-and-White attackers were unable to get on the end of the low liner that traveled through the box and out of bounds.

At least Chivas USA can take solace in the fact that in sports sometimes the downtrodden can rise and see success, as those on top don't always stay there.  After all, who would have thought just five years ago that the Clippers would emerge as the better basketball organization in town.

Indeed, anything is possible.

Chivas USA (1-2-2) will next face the Portland Timbers on the road this Saturday.  The Galaxy (1-1-1) will play at home Saturday against the Vancouver Whitecaps.

By Staff of TheDailySportsHerald.com and news services