This was MLS’ version of Clash Of The Cash as the two teams with the highest payrolls squared off in this match. New York is has a payroll of $ 15.7 million although Los Angeles has a payroll of $ 11 million. The match was specific lively as they played to a 1-1 draw in the House Depot Center.
New York got off to a wonderful commence scoring in the fourth minute when a via ball by Dane Richards discovered Thierry Henry in the box who sidestepped Donovan Ricketts, Los Angeles’ goalkeeper, and slotted it back into the net. Nonetheless, the early lead led to New York sitting back a bit which invited Los Angeles to pressure and they did. They had many close chances such as a objective line clearance by Tim Ream soon after it looked like Landon Donovan was going to score on any open net. Donovan would ultimately equalize when he headed in a corner from David Beckham in the 41st.
The second half started strongly from Los Angeles, but New York eventually began to uncover a foothold in the game and they had been able to get better hold of possession as Los Angeles’ pressing play wasn’t sustainable for 90 minutes.
It is a result that most likely leaves New York happier. It was the first time they didn’t control possession and there were clearly some holes in defense. The team played with two high of a line whilst allowed Los Angeles to expose the lack of speed in the center of defense. They were also clearly missing Teemu Tainio to anchor their defense as Medhi Ballouchy tried, but that actually is not his natural position and it showed.
For Los Angeles, they were missing Edson Buddle from last season. Juan Pablo Angel missed a couple fantastic chances given the service he was acquiring. Chad Barrett was working challenging, but by no means made a massive impact on the game. The team’s major threat was Landon Donovan running behind the defense, which New York did greater in handling throughout the second half. Right after that, Los Angeles looked to put in crosses, but the forwards in no way capitalized.
Searching forward, both teams are in strong positions leading their conferences, but New York do seem to be the stronger side as of proper now, but Los Angeles are an in-form striker away from being right up there with them.
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