When writing about the “SuperClasico” in the past I have often pointed out straight away that I am not a fan of this name. Simply because the rivalry does not normally live up to such a name and we are left wondering what is super about it, and how it can be described as classic.
However, Sunday’s edition of this derby lived up to some of the hype, for various reasons. Most importantly, the team played well and Dan Kennedy and Erick “Cubo” Torres made the headlines.
Dan Kennedy, prior to the game on Sunday, was already a Chivas USA legend in my book. However, it became official in a sense when he broke the all-time games played record with his 123rd appearance for the club. Breaking this record against the LA Galaxy was something extra special and to cap his day off, he made a ridiculous double-save in the 1st half that will surely win him save of the week. A Donovan shot destined for the top corner was met by the hand of Kennedy, who pushed it onto the post. The ball then bounced back into action where Marcelo Sarvas was waiting. But somehow Kennedy got back over and smothered his headed attempt at goal. It was yet another perfect example of his legendary status on a special day for him and his fans.
Over to new fans favorite and Cubo Torres was continuing to show just how important he is for Chivas USA. Grabbing his ninth goal of the season, Torres’ goal gave the Goats the lead and ensured that we at least left this match with a point. There has been a lot of speculation surrounding the future of Cubo and who would take his place as goal scorer. However, during writing this very article, the news broke that he had extended his loan deal from Guadalajara and with the further option to buy at the end of the loan.
This is not only fantastic news for Chivas USA but for MLS as well. Even though they won’t be called Chivas USA next year the team needs this kind of player. Young, exciting and hungry for goals, Cubo Torres would be welcomed on almost any side in MLS right now. To keep him for the remainder of the season is good enough, but to possibly have him around for longer is exactly what the fans wanted to hear.
It has been a good couple of days for Chivas USA. As Sunday’s game was one of the last times we will get to cheer on the Goats from the Away section of the StubHub, it was a nervy situation. I wanted to be there to cheer the team on but I was honestly worried that it was going to be a day to forget. However, the players and the fans made sure that did not happen. Even though the game ended in a tie, it was a great result considering our form and record against the Galaxy.
From a fans perspective it was also a great day out. The party atmosphere that comes with knowing you might as well enjoy your team’s last season came back with a bang. The small band of us in the corner of the StubHub sang like it was the last ever game and showed anyone listening that there is real passion for a second LA team (if it can be run properly).
It might not last long, and we are still waiting for some news on our future, but this is a good week for Chivas USA fans. We will take what we can get.
(image courtesy of mlssoccer.com)
