Galaxy Wins USL-MLS Challenge

The Los Angeles Galaxy have won their first trophy of 2007 - they were crowned champions of the inaugural 2007 USL-MLS Challenge in Puerto Rico with wins over the Rochester Rhinos (3-2) and the Puerto Rico Islanders (2-1). Going 2-0 in the tournament, the Galaxy now boast a pre-season record of 8-1-2 with one match left before the season begins. The L.A. goalscorers in the tournament were Chris Albright, Nate Jaqua and Kyle Martino. Albright boasts four goals in this pre-season, two more than any other Galaxy player.

Chinese Player On Trial In L.A.

Chinese defender Yao Lijun will soon be on trial with the Los Angeles Galaxy, according to reports. He was invited by the club and is now awaiting a visa. "I will kick off the tour right after my visa is ready. I am well prepared." Yao told Eastday.com yesterday.

Yao plays for Shanghai Shenhua and says he feels lucky because the bosses in Shenhua have fully supported his U.S. tour.

The Los Angeles Galaxy are looking for depth in defense. They traded away promising young defender Ugo Ihemelu to the Colorado Rapids this offseason and will also likely be without U.S. National Team call-up Chris Albright for part of the upcoming MLS season due to national team duty.

2007 Schedule Release Imminent

After weeks of speculation and several tentative dates having come and gone, the MLS appears to be putting the final touches on the 2007 schedule. According to several posters on bigsoccer.com, ticket reps have been spreading the word that a new schedule should be available around February 7th.

It is presumed that MLS bigwigs have re-worked the schedule several times to make sure as many cities as possible get the chance to catch Beckham fever. This likely means that L.A. will be playing many home games in the front half of their schedule, and will spend most of the summer/fall traveling from city to city. It will also mean many Thursday games for the Galaxy as ESPN will want to take full advantage of the circus, as well.

So, L.A. season-ticket-holders, be prepared for a long spring as you will likely be without Landon Donovan, Chris Albright, Nathan Sturgis, Quavas Kirk, Joe Cannon and Nate Jaqua for parts of the season, all being called up for national team/U20 national team duties. Is it August yet?