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Galaxy And Quakes Play To Draw In California Clasico

It's often the case in soccer that you will see something you've never seen before. However, it's unlikely anyone in San Jose expected to see the Los Angeles Galaxy use three goalkeepers. This keeper by committee system ended up working, as the Galaxy drew even with the San Jose Earthquakes, 0 - 0. In the 24', Donovan Ricketts went down with a shoulder injury after a San Jose defender crashed into them. They both looked worse for the wear, but it was Ricketts that had to be helped off the pitch.

Backup keeper Josh Saunders came in and performed admirably, but was ejected before halftime. Steven Lenhart headed the ball out of Saunders' hands, and when Saunders went for the ball his elbow collided with Lenhart. He was given a red card for his troubles. This put Mike Magee in goal for the rest of the game, and the defender, wearing Josh Saunders' jersey, was able to keep the Earthquakes off the board and the Galaxy were able to walk away with a point despite playing with ten men for the entire second half and the third string keeper in goal.

The shorthanded Galaxy were only able to manage one shot on goal the entire game. Compare that to San Jose's 26 attempts, with seven of them on target. Mike Magee made four saves while playing an interim keeper role. Miguel Lopez managed the only shot on goal for the Galaxy. It can't be understated just how defensively the Galaxy had to play. The team only managed one corner kick the entire game.

Under the circumstances, Bruce Arena will take the result. The Galaxy return to Home Depot Center for their next match on the Fourth of July. The team will get back Landon Donovan, and possibly David Beckham, but will likely have to go with Brian Perk in goal.