DCU 2, LA Galaxy 5

Contrary to all expectations about myself, I'm not overly panicked about the implications and ramifications of last night's embarassing DCU undressing by the LA Galaxy. Yes, I said I though the game was crucial, and I stand by that. DCU missed an opportunity to reestablish themselves, going into the final quarter of the season, as the preeminent team in MLS, ordained as points champ and favorites in the playoffs. And now, revealed as creaky and tired and broken in key places, nothing can be considered safe - not the Supporters Shield, not a MLS Cup - DCU will have to fight as desperately and urgently as, oh, the LA Galaxy played last night. This may be a good thing, depending.

Depending on whether the have the wheels. Gomez has to be healthy. Adu has to be healthy. United is Columbus if they have to play with Simms AND Walker AND Eskandarian on the field simultaneously. That's three players with the first touch of a stump. Eskandarian cannot do anyfreakingthing with his right foot. Walker's a decent late substitute to run at an exhausted defense, but he's not quality enough to start. Simms has regressed, gone tentative. Whether or not DCU with Adu and Gomez starting could have matched LA's intensity and energy is questionable (and it's not like LA doesn't have a history of playing well at RFK). But there was no way that DCU could beat that LA team last night with those three on the field at the same time. Beyond issues of fatigue, beyond issues of intensity and urgency and desire, the team DCU started last night looked leagues behind LA in talent. That's what's worrisome.

I don't know why Olsen was subbed out at half, but if he's injured, and Gomez is hobbled, and Adu is gimpy, and Mediate's finished for the year, that's three key players and a valuable reserve either under-strength or kaput. The Post says Donnet might be available for Chivas, and he may be great or he may be good or he may be Guppy Filomeno, who knows? I'm not that concerned that a desperate LA with a point to prove outplayed and outhustled DCU last night, but I am concerned that attrition has caught up to United. They can talk about refocusing all they like, but if the talent's not on the field it won't matter.

Side note: Fuck Santino Quaranta. Punkassbitch. No wonder he fits in well with the LA Galaxy, the flagship franchise of divers, whiners, punkassbitches.

Final note: The wages of Cassandra: Guess who said on June 22, "Watch Donovan come score two for Galaxy v DCU in RFK this August 26." What a smartass.