also in an intimidating place to play -- and throw in the fact that D.C. United are playing some of the best soccer in MLS right now, it's easy to understand the test that lies in front of the Galaxy.
With 45,000 tickets sold for Thursday's game in anticipation of a potential David Beckham sighting, RFK will be rocking unlike any other game in the nation's capital this year. Beckham isn't likely to play, but D.C.'s cast of characters will all be there. With United coming off of a 3-0 win in their last game against New England, the Galaxy know they will have their hands full as they desperately chase points in a bid to return to the MLS Cup Playoffs.
"Each MLS game is a completely new game. D.C. did beat New England 3-0, and it is an impressive result. So it will be a tough game for us," said Galaxy head coach Frank Yallop. "The best thing to come out of Sunday night at Toronto was how the team stuck together and got a point. We have a number of good players on team, and what I am trying to do is build chemistry. Once we have everyone playing well and together we will have a better chance of winning more games."
The Galaxy are knee-deep in the middle of a brutal stretch in their schedule. D.C. United marks the second of five road games the Galaxy have in the month of August. Getting points on the road is always priority number one, but the Galaxy are getting close to the point where wins are becoming a necessity.
"We are trying to win every game. I don't try and create a panicked environment, and say 'if we don't win this game everyone can pack up and go home.' We will try to win a game in D.C., which will be a hard game," said Yallop. "We just have to keep tugging away and doing the right things. We want to win on Thursday, Sunday and Wednesday. We want to win every game, but they are all tough games."
One thing that should work in favor of the Galaxy is the surface that the game will be played on, and it could also improve the chances of Beckham making an appearance as well. Toronto's BMO Field is artificial turf, while RFK has a grass surface, despite the odd bounce now and then from seams caused by covering the baseball infield as the stadium is also the home of the Washington Nationals.
"Being on this surface we should play well. D.C. United is a good side, and they will be ready to play," said Yallop. "It is time for us to get some good results, and I expect some good wins."
Greg Daurio is a contributor to MLSnet.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Soccer or its clubs.
