MLS Report: Galaxy Beats Crew

Nate Jaqua scored in the first half and the Los Angeles Galaxy eliminated the Columbus Crew from the U.S. Open Cup tournament with a 1-0 victory Tuesday night.

Galaxy captain Landon Donovan set up the goal, beating three Crew defenders on a run down the left side before sending a misdirected pass into the hands of Crew goalkeeper Bill Gaudette.




But Gaudette mishandled the ball inside the 6-yard box, allowing Jaqua an easy score.

Crew midfielder Danny Szetela nearly evened the score with a solid strike from 20 yards in the 21st minute, forcing Steve Cronin to make a diving save.

Forward Andy Herron bent a free kick around the Galaxy defensive wall and toward the right goal post in the 36th minute, but Cronin pounced on the shot to keep the Crew scoreless.

Neither team was able to maintain a steady attack during a listless second half punctuated by sloppy play and awkward tackles.

Galaxy midfielder Kevin Harmse was shown a yellow card by referee Erich Simmons for a hard challenge against Crew captain Duncan Oughton in the 71st minute.

Oughton and Crew defender Ward also were booked in the second half.

Gaudette left the game with a right leg contusion in the 34th minute, replaced by regular Crew starting goalkeeper Andy Gruenebaum.