From: MLS Net
With the 2009 season completed, here are the answers to some of the biggest questions surrounding Chivas USA as the club prepares for 2010.
WHAT DO CHIVAS USA NEED TO DO TO GO FARTHER IN THE MLS CUP PLAYOFFS?
While often a solid contender in the Western Conference, Chivas USA struggle to win big games. The team is 1-4-3 in playoff contests over the course of the last four years. If they are going to advance past the first round of the postseason in 2010, the Red-and-White must find a way to hit their best form for important matches.
WHAT WAS THE TEAM'S BEST MOMENT IN '09?
Chivas USA revealed their true character in the team's first playoff match with the LA Galaxy. Down 2-1 to their in-stadium rivals at halftime, the Red-and-White scored early in the second half and then proceeded to dominate the run of play for the next 40 minutes. The playoff series ultimately didn't go their way, but the first match really demonstrated that Chivas USA could match up with anybody in the league.
WHO SHOWED THE BIGGEST IMPROVEMENT OVER THE COURSE OF THE SEASON?
When Michael Lahoud arrived in Los Angeles in January, it was obvious that he was a rookie. He seemed timid in the attack and generally overwhelmed by the pace of the game. Eight months later, he was helping Chivas USA into the playoffs during a closing run that saw the team lose just two of its last eight games. He capped off his first pro season by earning a staring nod in both the Red-and-White's playoff matches against the Galaxy.
WHAT RESERVES ARE MOST READY TO CRACK THE STARTING LINEUP?
At just 20 years old, Chivas USA youth system product Gerson Mayén is still a young player, but after notching four assists in just 12 appearances this season, he is poised to become an important member of the squad next year. Numerous stints with the U-20 national team in 2009 will help his confidence as he continues to improve.
WHAT AREA OF THE TEAM NEEDS THE MOST IMPROVEMENT?
Without a doubt, Chivas USA must improve their attack. The team scored the lowest number of goals in the Western Conference this season, and hasn't netted more than twice in one game since Oct. 4, 2008. The defense has been solid, but the Red-and-White must get better at finding the back of the net.