In a crucial match for both Omar Jasseh's San Jose Earthquakes and D.C. United which ended on Saturday in a 1-1 draw, the Earthquakes will be sorry for their wastefulness in front of goal and their inability to turn the lion's share of possession into a win.
Andy Najar and Ike Opara provided the goals at the Buck Shaw Stadium.
San Jose took their early goal and controlled the pace of the match and had most of the possession. They almost doubled their advantage in the 26th minute when Perkins went off his line, but Bobby Convey, who was the creative force for San Jose, volleyed his shot wide of Perkins’ open net.
San Jose continued to push for a winner in front of the home crowd, and almost found it two minutes from time. Gambian mid-fielder Omar Jasseh alias Waterman, who entered in place of Chris Wondolowski, found himself open in the box when a deflected cross fell into his lap. His side-footed volley was destined for the back of the net, but a diving Troy Perkins deflected it to the side, ending San Jose’s chances of securing a crucial three points at home.
Instead, San Jose (5-4-4), who hasn't won at home since May 8, and currently at 17 points and 8th position on the MLS table, were left to regret a lost couple with potential points that could appear large at season’s end.
When a playoff-bound team hosts an opponent that is tied for the fewest points in the league, a come-from-ahead draw is not usually the result.
"Obviously, we’re disappointed to not win at home," coach Frank Yallop said. "You’re always on a bit of a tightrope when it's one-nil. It's just unfortunate we couldn’t stick that second goal in."
Sanna Nyassi's Seattle Sounders who will meet Los Angeles Galaxy today had a great week after beatingPortland Timbers 4-3 on penalties in US Open Cup last Thursday.
