Well, MLS is back, but many will be forgiven for having already tuned out, as its first episode, featuring the Seattle Sounders and Los Angeles Galaxy, has only been a showcase for missed chances and shaky defense. The best chance in the game fell to O'Brian White in the 24th minute. After a scramble in front of the Galaxy goal, the ball fell to White, but rather than taking a shot, the forward took the time to control the ball and then failed to get his shot away.
New Seattle midfielder Erik Friberg has impressed so far, combining well with Alvaro Fernandez on the right wing. Just before the whistle, Friberg grabbed a ball that had bounced off a Galaxy player, turned, and shot from distance. The ball missed the outside of the post by just a few inches.
In injury time, David Beckham proved that there's a reason for Los Angeles to keep him around, despite the fact that he looks off the pace. After Sounders defender Leo Gonzalez brought Beckham down, he was shown a yellow and a free kick was awarded to the Galaxy. Beckham stepped up to take the kick and, from 35 yards out, sent in a ball that grazed the top of Kasey Keller's net. A great shot and a reminder of how dangerous Beckham is from set pieces.
At halftime, the game remains scoreless. Both defenses are shaky, but considering both offenses also appear to be unable to send in a shot that threatens the keeper, we may be looking at a goalless draw.