“You said ‘defend,’ and that’s the problem!”
So says Arlo White, speaking of the defending champion Los Angeles Galaxy. NBC’s new lead voice for MLS soccer was explaining to Russ Thaler about the L.A. Galaxy’s stacked attack, but also about the defensive issues the he (and everyone else) suspects might infest the Home Depot Center.
We saw it early Wednesday as Toronto thumped the Galaxy for two quick ones. The practice of “marking,” it seems, had suddenly become more of a guideline than a rule for the visitors. I’m sure manager Bruce Arena got that sorted out at halftime.
A little perspective here on two goals dropping into Galaxy goal over just 18 minutes: in 34 matches last year, the Galaxy allowed more than one goal on just seven occasions. Yes, Omar Gonzalez, you are dearly missed.
Here is White’s Hat Trick, including thoughts on the Galaxy and other things on his mind as MLS FirstKick approacheth:
And in this one, White breaks down Sunday’s FC Dallas-New York Red Bulls match, which pops the top on NBC’s new deal with Major League Soccer. We know about the Red Bulls’ injury concerns, about the suspension that will keep Rafa Marquez out of this one and about Luke Rodgers’ ongoing visa saga. Less has been said about the Dallas, where 2010 MVP David Ferreira remains questionable.
FYI, the weather isn’t great. In fact, the weekend looks a real dog soaker in Dallas. Cold, too. Yuk.
Latest local forecasts call for the heavy rain and cold to move away by Sunday afternoon or evening. Kickoff is set for 2 p.m. locally, so this one will be cutting it close.