LA Galaxy lose to FC Dallas, after going down to ten men

The LA Galaxy lost to FC Dallas 1-0 in a match that saw two penalty kicks saved and the Galaxy playing with ten men for much of the second half. Dallas remained undefeated at home on the year, while the Galaxy became the last team in MLS to suffer a loss. This was the first time FC Dallas defeated LA in regular season play since 2011.

The deciding goal wasn't without controversy, as George John headed in a lose ball and then was pelted by a projectile from the stands. He continued on, as the Galaxy continue to let in goals after the 80th minute. At least this time there was a legitimate excuse as they had to play with 10 men.

It was just before the hour mark when Leonardo was shown a red card. He was the last man back, trying to get position on Blas Perez when Perez went down. There was contact and extended limbs, and the ref though enough to send Leonardo off. Kenny Cooper stepped up to take the penalty kick, stuttered right then went left. Cudicini was able to make the diving save and Dallas' rebound attempt went wide.

Ten minutes later, LA got a penalty of their own. Donovan dribbled down toward the touchline, then turned and kicked back for Villarreal who went down in the box over George John's foot. It was softer than Leonrado's, and again the ball would not go in as Landon Donovan's penalty kick was saved. That's only the third time in his MLS career that Donovan had a penalty stay out.

It's yet another match where the Galaxy played well all match only to have things crumble in the end. The club was without Robbie Keane, Sean Franklin, and Todd Dunivant who all picked up knocks in Monterrey. This led to Greg Cochrane getting his first start, and admirable effort, as well as Jack McBean starting in place of Robbie Keane. Mike Magee started in the midfield, and Colin Clark took the other wide midfielder spot. Clark was ineffective after a two week break and had to be subbed out at the 55' mark.

The Galaxy have been stretched thin, but now get a chance to bounce back at home. The first loss of the year on the road with ten men after playing midweek in Mexico is nothing to take too seriously. It was a match the Galaxy were supposed to lose, and yet they truly made FC Dallas earn it.