1:3 New York Los Angeles Angel Eskandarian Donovan Lewis 07.16.09 · League

Juan Carlos Osorio keeps repeating that he made MLS Cup last year, something no one has been able to do with this franchise before. Congratulations, Juan Carlos. You were an MLS Cup finalist. No, you didn't win that game, but that's irrelevant, isn't it. You will always be an MLS Cup finalist. Wear that title with pride.

Sadly, you'll be wearing it on Metro sidelines, as the idiots in Austria decided not to dismiss you. You first game after your life was spared? A pathetic 3:1 loss to Los Angeles, your 11th straight league game without a win. (The Metro record is 12, back in 1999. By God, who knew that 1999 will ever be eclipsed? It took the tactical genius of Osorio to do so.)

The Galaxy goals came in the 3rd minute by Alecko Eskandarian, in the 31st by Landon Donovan (both on long blasts), in the 45th by Eddie Lewis (hey! another goal right before the half).

All the Metro players were terrible, but Jorge Rojas was pure crap.

Metro scored late in regulation through John Wolyniec, but the Galaxy was whistled for a handball in the box seconds prior, and the goal was called back. (We'd complain about continuation, but whatever. It's as irrelevant as the Metro season.) Juan Pablo Angel converted the penalty. Another hand ball in the 90th minute led to another penalty kick, but this time Angel's weak shot was saved by Donovan Ricketts.

Wise up, Austrian overlords. Fire the clown masquerading as head coach NOW.

Lineup: Cepero, Pacheco, Sassano, Petke, Hall, Stammler, Celades, Rojas, Zimmerman, Kandji, Angel. Subs: Richards, Ubiparipovic, Wolyniec.