Galaxy wins 3-1 in Beckham’s last game with the team
In a fitting end to his time with the LA Galaxy, David Beckham led the team to its second consecutive MLS Cup Title today at the Galaxy’s home field, the Home Depot Center, in Carson, California. The team’s headline player, who announced a few weeks back that today’s match would be his last for the MLS, clearly hit the field with the intention of going out in style.
After a strong first half from the Houston Dynamo, heading into the break with a 1-0 lead, the LA Galaxy came out in the second half for three consecutive goals to take the championship. The first two goals came with a flash as Beckham set up Omar Gonzalez for the header into the goal at 61 minutes, followed by a penalty kick just a few minutes later from team captain, Landon Donovan. The final goal also came from a penalty kick, scored by Robbie Keane. The Galaxy took a 3-1 lead to seal their fate as the MLS Cup champions. Beckham exited the filed after the final goal to the roars of the adoring crowd, applauding the British football star for his 5-season career with the Galaxy. It was a fitting exit – as the Galaxy secured the number one spot in Major League Soccer.
The 37-year old British football star brought new life to the MLS since joining the LA Galaxy in 2007. Hailing from soccer giants, Manchester United and Real Madrid, he has lent his worldwide fame and brand name, reportedly earning him more than $40 million annually in endorsement income, to the league for 5 years.
“There is no doubt that MLS is far more popular and important here and abroad than it was when he arrived,” stated MLS Commissioner, Don Garber. “David has achieved great things on and off the field during his time with the Galaxy, and he will always be an important part of our history. We look forward to his continued involvement with the LA Galaxy and the league.”
It was a strong victory and a beautiful end to the season for the Los Angeles team. Of the back-to-back titles, team captain, Landon Donovan commented, “It’s a little surreal to be honest. I think in any sport, to repeat is really hard to do. The playoff run was great, but what got us here was the turnaround in July . . . we have to give ourselves a lot of credit for how we did when we were down . . . that’s the sign of a champion and we showed that again today, too.”
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