There were several storylines involved when the Los Angeles Galaxy visited FC Dallas on Sunday evening. Dallas was looking to clinch its first playoff berth since 2011, while the Galaxy was looking to gain the upper hand on the Seattle Sounders in the race for the Supporters' Shield. The biggest story of all was what would perhaps be the final appearance of Landon Donovan at Toyota Stadium.

The cool Texas evening caused by a light misting rain could not dampen the buzz surrounding this matchup. Every corner kick Donovan stepped up to take was captured by thousands of camera flashes and cellphone pictures. These pictures were accompanied by a handful of ovations during the second half as Dallas fans said goodbye to the American soccer icon.

Even with the overwhelming focus on the Galaxy's No. 10, the game provided plenty of excitement. Despite FC Dallas enjoying the bulk of chances in the first half, it was the Galaxy who took the lead on a sublime chip from Stefan Ishizaki. The goal was created when Gyasi Zardes was sent down the wing by Alan Gordon. The resulting cross was headed away, but only to the feet of Ishizaki, who opened himself some space toward the end line before completing an incredible chip from short range.

Dallas tried to get level before the break but was thwarted in its efforts. Unable to turn a hefty advantage in corner kicks into a goal, Dallas headed into the break down by one. 

The second half opened at a little slower pace, with the Galaxy looking to draw FC Dallas up the field and hit them on the counter. FC Dallas got the breakthrough they needed when Andres Escobar drew the attention of the defense before slipping David Texeira through on goal. Texeira's first-time strike beat Jaime Penedo and leveled the game at the 52nd minute.

The next half hour saw both teams trade some tantalizing chances as Alan Gordon and Fabian Castillo both saw tough angle efforts scream across the goalmouth. It would be Castillo, however, who would seal the spoils for FC Dallas in the 87th minute.

Escobar played the role of creating the opportunity off of an FC Dallas throw-in. The Colombian midfielder collected the ball and drove a vicious shot from an angle that Penedo parried into the path of Castillo who headed into the open net from 10 yards out.

Dallas had to hold on with 10 men, as only two minutes later Moises Hernandez was given a straight red for a reckless challenge from behind. Dallas was able to hold on through four minutes of injury time for a 2-1 victory.

The loss leaves the Galaxy with a huge match at home against Seattle next Sunday that may determine home-field advantage for the playoffs. Dallas can turn its attention to trying to wrestle the third seat in the west from Real Salt Lake in the final two games.

Dallas fans got to say goodbye to a legend while welcoming the playoffs back to Dallas. It was for Hoops fans the best of nights. For this writer, it was a special night, as we celebrated my son's eighth birthday. Many thanks to FC Dallas, as they know how to provide a wonderful atmosphere for kids, making these occasions lifetime memories. Happy Birthday Tristan!

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