MLS Playoffs a Predictable Exercise: It's All About Fatigue

Filed under: MLS, Chicago Fire, Chivas USA, Colorado Rapids, Columbus Crew, FC Dallas, Houston Dynamo, Kansas City Wizards, Los Angeles Galaxy, New York Red Bulls, Real Salt Lake, San Jose Earthquakes, Seattle Sounders FC

Three months ago, the Los Angeles Galaxy were a laughing stock.

The club with Major League Soccer's best record was dumped from the CONCACAF Champions League's preliminary round by the minor league Puerto Rico Islanders. L.A. lost the first leg, 4-1, at Home Depot Center.

It was a black eye for American soccer.

But it turns out the Galaxy may have been on to something.

Losing to Puerto Rico and missing out on the Champions League's group stage cut six games, plus three international flights, from the Galaxy's 2010 schedule. Their opponent in the opening round of the MLS Cup playoffs, the Seattle Sounders, did play in the group stage. Over the course of the two-game Western Conference semifinal, it was clear who was fresher. The Galaxy outworked and easily outclassed Seattle on their way to a 3-1 aggregate triumph.

 

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

Tiger woods David Beckham LA Lakers Roger Federer New Jersey Devils