It was a disappointing beginning to the Frank Yallop era in Los Angeles. The former Canadian national team coach was named as the new Galaxy manager on Wednesday afternoon, and then just a little more than 24 hours later, sent his troops out onto the field for his first game, which ended in a 2-1 loss to rivals Chivas USA.
Yallop hasn't had much time to reflect on his new team's performance. Only two days separate his debut from his encore performance as the Green and Gold host D.C. United on Sunday evening at The Home Depot Center.
The Galaxy are currently riding a seven-game losing streak, and will be trying to change their fortunes against a team that is currently tops in MLS. United have won four of their last five, and haven't lost a game in more than a month. Everyone on the Galaxy squad is expecting D.C. to come in and try and take advantage of a struggling side.
"I would expect nothing less from them," said Galaxy goalkeeper Kevin Hartman. "They're a quality side. I've had a great time watching them all year. But now it's time for us to get out of this a bit and rectify our situation."
The task at hand is easier said than done. During the course of the current losing streak the Galaxy haven't just lost games, they've looked downright poor at times. But there have been signs of life. After being shut out in five consecutive games, Los Angeles has scored in their last two contests, and was very positive about their play Thursday night despite the loss. Building upon that attitude is the only way the Galaxy are going to get out of their current funk.
"The only way to do it is to just continue to plug away. I think if we try to overanalyze or dissect too much, then we make (the losing streak) a bigger thing than it is," said Pete Vagenas. "We just have to win soccer games."
Vagenas should provide his team with a much needed boost on Friday night. The Galaxy captain has missed the last two games due to injury. He was hopeful to play in Thursday night's game, and is very optimistic about his chances of getting back into the action Sunday. His veteran leadership will be a key for a team that started five players against Chivas with two years of experience or fewer.
One person with plenty of MLS experience is Yallop. With two MLS Cups won in three seasons when he was the head coach of the San Jose Earthquakes, Yallop knows what needs to be done to win in MLS. Although the Galaxy's new coach has admitted that this week has been a "whirlwind", he was still confident about being able to prepare his team for Sunday.
"We'll work a little bit the next few days to get ready for D.C.," said Yallop. "I'll watch a lot of game tape on them, adjust what we need to do, and go in with a clear mind to try and get three points."
Greg Daurio is a contributor to MLSnet.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Soccer or its clubs.
