CARSON, Calif. – Some things never change for the defending MLS Cup champion LA Galaxy. Robbie Keane continues his scoring exploits and the defense remains virtually impenetrable in a 2-0 victory over the Chicago Fire in Friday’s MLS regular-season opener in front of a sellout crowd of 27,000 at StubHub Center.
Jose Villarreal open the scoring in the 65th minute, Keane added the clincher 16 minutes later and a defense which tied D.C. United for the league’s fewest goals allowed a year ago was its usual, stingy self.
The Fire were credited with one shot on goalkeeper Brian Rowe, who got the start ahead of Jaime Penedo and was rarely tested in a victory that kept the Galaxy unbeaten at home since a season-opening loss to Real Salt Lake last March 8.
“Our defense did a great job stepping up, all the guys,” Rowe said. “That always makes my job easier.”
Rowe, who accounted for one victory and two ties in three appearances last season, said he was not surprised he got the start.
“It’s been a long preseason, a good preseason,” he said. “Sometimes you put the work in and not worry about anybody else. The decision comes down to the coaches.
“I kind of just focused on what I can do this preseason, tried to come in healthy and be consistent.”
Midfielder Baggio Husidic said there was a little extra effort on the part of the defense Friday.
“We were very disciplined and took it pretty personal to get a clean sheet,” he said.
Head coach Bruce Arena said the reason for the defense’s solid play is pretty simple.
“It’s a pretty experienced group,” he said. “All of our players, besides the group that started, with A.J. (DeLaGarza) coming on, Tommy Meyer, Todd Dunivant … we have good, experienced players that can play multiple positions on the back line.
“They’ve played together for a while and they’re pretty consistent.”
Central defender Omar Gonzalez said he liked what he saw in the opener, despite the fact it was only the first game of the season.
“Tonight I thought we were solid,” he said. “We didn’t allow very much. And if we want to be another contender this year, I know it’s still early but what I’m getting at is one of our goals is to be a consistent team, be good the whole season.
“If we want to do that, we have to have a confident, good back line. But that doesn’t start with us. It starts with the forwards down to the goalkeeper. It’s a team effort, and I thought the effort was there tonight.”
