Given the fact that the Los Angeles Galaxy had only 13 outfield players to choose from, a scoreless draw against a D.C. United team carrying a three-game winning streak could be cause for relief.
But Saturday night at The Home Depot Center, the Galaxy created more than enough chances to win the game, yet were once again found lacking in front of goal. It was another night where Los Angeles saw points lost at home; the Galaxy now have just four points from four home games.
Los Angeles has also conceded just one goal in their last two contests, but failed to find the back of the net in either, which is why the Galaxy currently sit at the bottom of the Western Conference table. Still, despite the result, Galaxy head coach Frank Yallop couldn't fault the effort of his side.
"It's the same story we've had all year really. We had the chances to score early in the match," said Yallop. "I guess in the end a draw was fair. (D.C.) had some good chances too. It's disappointing not to win at home, but all things considered we did the right things to win."
A look at the stat sheet shows the Galaxy were outshot in the match. Still, the home side did create the more dangerous scoring chances. Twice the Galaxy had shots that were heading towards the back of the net deflected away by United defenders. One of those near misses came from the boot of Landon Donovan, who was frustrated with his performance.
"For me, I'm still here, and I know I can do better. Personally I'm gutted," said Donovan. "It (stinks) because the guys who are out there are busting their (butts) and doing well. It's tough."
Donovan and his teammates have been left ruing missed chances all season long. Saturday was just another occasion when a little bit of luck, or a bit more confidence in front of the net, would have made all the difference. It's been a hard pill to swallow for Donovan.
"I can't remember ever being more frustrated. If you think about all the chances, I could have 10 goals in seven games realistically," said Donovan. "You have to stay positive. We're doing the right things -- now it's how do you make it happen, how do you bury it."
The frustration has mounted for Nate Jaqua as well. Los Angeles signed Jaqua in the winter to bolster the attack and the young striker is still searching for his first goal of the year. Jaqua had a few chances go by the wayside against United as well, including a point-blank effort early on in the match.
"I would have liked to have had that chance a little later in the game. I think it was my first touch," said Jaqua. "But that's one I have to put away. I'm not making any excuses. I've had my opportunities and people are feeding me good balls. I just have to stay confident and keep plugging away, and hopefully it comes."
Jaqua was willing to take a bit of the blame for the result against D.C. The frustration for all the forwards was obvious following the match, and Jaqua was no exception.
"It's tremendously frustrating. For me personally I'm new here in L.A. and I want to come out and prove something to the fans and get some goals," said Jaqua. "Obviously we just need to win. It's frustrating."
One thing that should help Jaqua maintain his confidence is the fact that his coach hasn't lost confidence in the fifth-year striker. Yallop made note of his struggles in front of the goal tonight, but had nothing but praise for Jaqua's work ethic.
"We all watched the same game. Nate missed a lot of chances, but he's worked his tail off in every game," said Yallop. "I just hope that one flies in for him. Next week would be good obviously. We're working hard and trying to do the right things to get these guys more comfortable and confident in front of the goal."
Yallop said three players will be coming back from injury this week, but he still has to get those same players game-fit. In addition, Donovan will be leaving the squad to join the U.S. national team for the CONCACAF Gold Cup. Los Angeles will need to find an answer in the next seven days without their most accomplished goal scorer if they hope to avoid further frustration.
Greg Daurio is a contributor to MLSnet.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Soccer or its clubs.
