WASHINGTON -- Brian Rowe conceded a goal late, but the 26-year-old goalkeeper was pleased with his showing in the LA Galaxy's 1-0 defeat to D.C. United last week.
Filling in for Jaime Penedo who was away on international duty, Rowe made two saves as he kept a clean sheet until Chris Pontius' goal in the third minute of stoppage time gave the Galaxy their first defeat of 2015. Although United forced just two saves, the Galaxy back-up needed to make several last ditch stops as the wind and cold nearly led to several miscues that forced Rowe to recover.
“It was not the most ideal conditions, but both teams have to deal with them and play in them. Early on they tried to dump a few balls in the box to keep their numbers up, so I thought we did well in the first half with the wind in our face. We adjusted well in the second half.”
Penedo is expected to return to the starting lineup for this week's match against Vancouver Whitecaps FC, but Rowe admits that his string of appearances early on have been important for his development.
“I feel confident and comfortable. The more games I get, the better I will feel," said Rowe. "But you cannot give up last minute goals. I thought we at least deserved to get a point. In soccer stuff like that happens, but I know we will learn a lot from this game and we will be ready for next week.”
