MLS LA Galaxy

Galaxy to Battle CSD Municipal on May 8th

Published on April 1, 2002 under Major League Soccer (MLS)
LA Galaxy News Release


Building A Tradition as MLS' International Team, U.S. Open Cup and F.C. Champions' Cup Winners, Galaxy Aim For Their First Victory Against Guatemala's "Most Popular Team"

PASADENA, CA (Monday, April 1, 2002) - The Los Angeles Galaxy Major League Soccer (MLS) club will challenge the CSD Municipal "Rojos," one of the most powerful Guatemalan clubs and 18-time league champions on May 8, it was announced today by Doug Hamilton, Vice President/General Manager of the LA Galaxy. The Municipal vs. Galaxy match will kick off at 7:30 p.m. (PT) in the Rose Bowl and will be the Galaxy's first stateside meeting with the potent club this season.

It will also be the Galaxy's first match against Municipal since acquiring Guatemalan sensation Carlos Ruiz, who will be ready to compete against his former club. Ruiz, whose nickname is "El Pescadito" (little fish), made a huge splash in his MLS season debut on March 23 by scoring two goals and earning MLS Player of the Week honors. The two clubs last played in the Rose Bowl in 2000.

"These international matches continually challenge our players, while also serving to remind the international soccer community of the Galaxy's exceptional level of play," said Hamilton. "We anticipate to frequently compete against international clubs throughout the season whenever our schedule permits."

The Galaxy is taking an aggressive approach in pursuing opportunities for international play and has faced several international competitors so far this year. Overall, Los Angeles boasts an 18-8-10 all-time international record, including an impressive 4-0-1 record during a tour of Chile in 2002. During the club's seven-year history, the Galaxy has faced top clubs from Argentina, China, Chile, Colombia, England, El Salvador, Korea, Honduras, Japan and Mexico.

During the 2000 match between the Galaxy and five-time Guatemalan Cup Champion CSD Municipal, the "Rojos" edged the Galaxy 1-0 on a goal by Claudio Alvizuris. Ruiz was not on hand for the match with Municipal. He instead was playing for the Guatemalan National team where he scored the tying goal in a 1-1 draw against the United States during a World Cup Qualifying match on July 16.

Founded in 1936, Municipal is led by two outstanding players including Juan Carlos Plata, the league's leading scorer with eight goals and Guillermo Ramirez, a member of the Guatemalan National. Currently, Municipal is in first place of Guatemala's Torneo Clausura (Closing Tournament) with 21 points and a perfect 7-0-0 record, including a seven-game win streak.

As part the Galaxy 2002 Season Ticket Package, season seat holders will be able to use Bonus Game #1 in their ticket plan and utilize Game #15 in their parking passes. Tickets are available in a wide range from Premier - $33, Preferred - $22, Reserved - $18 ($15 Youth) and General Admission - $13 ($8 Youth). For information regarding purchasing tickets you may call our office toll-free (877) 3-GALAXY or visit any authorized Galaxy ticket sales location.

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