Three Years Later, Beckham Finally In MLS Postseason

Two dreadful seasons that have been plagued with injuries, mismanagement, power struggles, coaching changes, confusion, inner turmoil, and a very revealing book highlighting the insurrection of a misguided and torn team have bought David Beckham to a place he has never been before; the MLS Postseason.

Quite the road, eh?

The former England and Galaxy captain will be facing dreaded rival Chivas USA in the first of a home and home series (which, coincidentally, will be at the same home for the stadium sharing teams!). And as exciting as that may be, it pails in comparison to the road Golden Balls has traveled to get there.

After returning midseason from a highly criticized loan deal to AC Milan, Beckham was greeted in New York by the local supporters and the traveling Galaxy contingent alike with rounded boos each time he laid a touch on the ball. And the abuse continued, with signs like “Go Home Fraud” and clever songs accompanying him the whole way through, usually from his teams own supporters – the LA Riot Squad. But, as has been the story of Beckham’s career, he managed to turn those boos to cheers. Along with team captain Landon Donovan, Beckham has been a key cog in the teams success, creating a midfield fluidity that simply did not exist the last two seasons.

And suddenly, the love is back. Ah, you fickle, fickle footie fan.

The jury continues to be out on Beckham’s impact and success in MLS, but today can be a critical justification point for the English great’s MLS career. Will he succeed in this playoff derby? Check the game out stateside on ESPN2, 2pm Pacific time.

(AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

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Category: Leagues, MLS, North America, United States, World Football