Los Angeles Galaxy: Three hopes, one fear

Hope #2: That Ashley Cole can take a bite out of the Burrito.

In the Galaxy’s 3-3 draw against RSL in September Ashley Cole was burned by Burrito Martinez on multiple occasions. Martinez and Terry Mulholland both scored goals from the right flank in that match, beating Cole to help give RSL a point at home late.

Considering that not much was expected of Cole this season it has to be said that he has been a pleasant surprise for the Galaxy. Although he is clearly not the player he once was he has used his veteran experience to help mark inexperienced attackers. In general the Galaxy defense has performed quite well this season allowing just 39 goals.

But if the Galaxy are to advance past RSL they are going to need Cole to do a better job in defending Burrito. Arena may look towards having Jelle Van Damme to partner up with Cole to close that gap and hopefully give Cole some relief. Whatever Arena chooses to do the hope is that a greater emphasis at containing RSL on the outside will lead to a better result.