The soccer team’s grand plans unraveled quickly this season
A frustrating season continued for followers of the Major League Soccer team, the San Jose Earthquakes, on the weekend when they stumbled to a two-goal draw with Austin. It was a game the Earthquakes should’ve won, but despite an improved performance from an underfire and underperforming squad, they failed to grab a much-needed three points. Saturday’s draw means San Jose’s miserable winless streak continues, with the team slumping to 13th in the Western Conference.
The match started well for San Jose, who raced into an early lead thanks to an impressive and well-worked goal from Ebobisse, who found the net inside the opening ten minutes of play. Encouraged by that early advantage, Earthquakes fans expected their team to kick on from there and score a second goal before taking hold of the contest. As has so often been the case with the Quakes this season, they failed to take their chances and paid the ultimate price. A lack of composure and killer instinct needed to finish the game from a winning position allowed Austin to fight their way back into the fixture, and they scored a leveler just before the interval.
Dropping two points against Austin despite kicking off the game as the favorite with the best online sportsbooks in California means San Jose now has little to aim for this season. They are second from the bottom of the division, with their stats for the season showing three wins, two draws, and ten defeats, with 23 goals scored and 34 conceded. The 11 points claimed means Earthquakes are level on points with bottom club Sporting Kansas City, staying off the bottom on goal difference.
Leitch knows results must improve
As San Jose soccer fans learn they’ll likely be watching the playoffs without proper interest due to their team’s failings, San Jose Earthquakes general manager Chris Leitch knows things must improve and fast. The supporters, players, and board bought into an idea from the manager and coaching staff back in pre-season, but their grand plans quickly unraveled as the team sank towards the bottom of the league.
There’s still plenty of soccer ahead this season, with the weekend bringing results from round 15 for San Jose, but it’s unlikely the team will find the improvement needed to climb the ladder. San Jose’s current points tally of 11 means they are already eight behind the Vancouver Whitecaps and a top-six finish. Eight points isn’t necessarily impossible to cover, but there’s been little in the Earthquakes’ recent form that suggests the current squad is good enough to turn things around.
Following San Jose hasn’t always been as bleak as it is today, and we wanted to take a break from reporting on the team’s poor run to remind fans of the glory days. It was almost impossible to remember during the weekend’s yawn-fest with Austin, but San Jose once ruled soccer in the United States and are two-time MLS Cup champions. They first lifted the trophy in 2001 and then again in 2003. Let’s help bring a smile to the faces of Quakes fans by reflecting on the club’s most recent success.
A game of two halves
The final against the Chicago Fire was anticipated to be fiercely contested. The Fire had also enjoyed a strong season, boasting a solid defense and a potent attack led by Ante Razov and Damani Ralph.
The first half of the match was electrifying, with both teams playing aggressively and creating numerous scoring opportunities. Chicago struck first with a goal from Razov in the 5th minute, showcasing their intent to dominate. However, San Jose responded quickly, demonstrating their characteristic resilience. Just minutes later, Ronnie Ekelund equalized for the Earthquakes with a well-placed shot from outside the box.
The Earthquakes continued to press, and their efforts paid off when Landon Donovan, a key figure throughout the season, found the net in the 38th minute. Donovan’s goal was a testament to his clinical finishing and ability to perform in high-stakes moments. The first half ended with San Jose leading 2-1, but the match was far from over.
Chicago was not ready to concede defeat. They ramped up their offensive efforts, putting the San Jose defense under significant pressure. Their persistence was rewarded in the 54th minute when DaMarcus Beasley scored, reducing the deficit and reigniting their hopes of a comeback.
The match intensified as both teams battled fiercely. San Jose’s defense, led by veterans like Jeff Agoos and Troy Dayak, had to dig deep to repel the Fire’s relentless attacks. Goalkeeper Pat Onstad also played a crucial role, making several key saves to maintain the Earthquakes’ lead.
Donovan’s masterclass
Landon Donovan’s performance in the final was nothing short of spectacular. His first goal had already set the tone, but his influence on the game was far-reaching. Donovan’s speed, vision, and composure under pressure were on full display. In the 71st minute, he scored his second goal of the match, effectively sealing the victory for San Jose. This goal was a culmination of a brilliant individual effort, as Donovan navigated through the Chicago defense with ease before calmly slotting the ball past the goalkeeper.
Donovan’s brace in the final earned him the MLS Cup MVP award, a fitting recognition for his outstanding contributions not only in the final but throughout the season. His leadership on and off the field was instrumental in guiding the Earthquakes to their second MLS Cup victory in three years.
Celebration
As the final whistle blew, the San Jose Earthquakes emerged victorious with a 4-2 win over the Chicago Fire. The victory was a testament to their resilience, tactical understanding, and team spirit. The players, coaching staff, and fans erupted in celebration, marking a triumphant end to a memorable season.
The 2003 MLS Cup win was significant for the Earthquakes for several reasons. It solidified their status as one of the league’s top teams and highlighted the effectiveness of Frank Yallop’s coaching philosophy. The blend of experienced veterans and young talents like Landon Donovan created a balanced and formidable squad.
