CARSON, Calif. – Chivas USA goalkeeper Dan Kennedy can claim something that only a select handful of PDL veterans can boast – he played with Jurgen Klinsmann.
In 2003, the 21-year-old Kennedy played alongside the former German striking legend and current US national team coach for PDL club Orange County Blue Star. At the time, Kennedy was a junior at UC Santa Barbara and had built substantial buzz about his professional prospects. Klinsmann, meanwhile, was playing under the pseudonym Jay Goppingen.
“He meant a lot to that team in terms of his experience, and it was great for the young guys on the team to see how he went about his business,” Kennedy told MLSsoccer.com “He set a great example for us and he was a positive influence."
After leaving Blue Star, Kennedy went on to enjoy success. In 2004, one season after his time as Klinsmann’s teammate, Kennedy and the Gauchos went to the national title game. This season, Kennedy has recorded nine shutouts.
But did he ever save a shot from Jurgen Klinsmann?
“I played against him in a spring league game,” Kennedy said. "He almost scored on me from half field. That’s one of the most memorable saves I have.”
Pearce downgraded to doubtful
Heath Pearce’s quest to return to the field after a hamstring strain may have taken another blow. Pearce was downgraded from questionable to doubtful for the Rojiblancos’ match on Sunday against the Philadelphia Union.
After tweaking his hamstring strain last Friday, Pearce did not participate in full training with Chivas during their practice on Wednesday, instead working on the side with head trainer Jim Liston before leaving early to receive treatment according to a team official.
Pearce last played with Chivas USA in a 2-2 draw against D.C. United on Sept. 22.
Spencer impressing with reserves
Chivas USA have put focus on youth development, and it may have paid off. Ben Spencer, a 16-year-old striker formerly of the Real Salt Lake-AZ academy, scored in a 5-1 loss to the Portland Timbers on Tuesday.
The New Mexico native arrives at Chivas after starring for RSL-AZ during the Developmental Academy season earlier this year.
Adam Serrano covers Chivas USA for MLSsoccer.com. He can be reached at adam.m.serrano@gmail.com
