Keane’s LA Galaxy open MLS season with 2-0 win over Chicago

Chicago Fire goalkeeper Sean Johnson, left, dives to stop a shot as Los Angeles Galaxy forward Gyasi Zardes watches during the first half of an MLS soccer match, Friday, March 6, 2015, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill) Chicago Fire goalkeeper Sean Johnson, left, dives to stop a shot as Los Angeles Galaxy forward Gyasi Zardes watches during the first half of an MLS soccer match, Friday, March 6, 2015, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

By Associated Press March 7, 2015 2 min read

CARSON, Calif. (AP) – Jose Villarreal scored in the 65th minute, Robbie Keane added a late goal and the defending champion LA Galaxy opened the 20th MLS season Friday night with a 2-0 victory over the Chicago Fire.

Brian Rowe earned the shutout with just one save in a dominant performance by the Galaxy just three months after they raised their third MLS Cup trophy in four seasons at StubHub Center.

The Galaxy are unbeaten in 17 league games at home since March 8, 2014.

Retired star Landon Donovan joined his former teammates on the field for a brief pregame ceremony honoring MLS’ first five-time champion franchise in front of a sellout crowd. The Galaxy hung a large temporary banner above the video board to honor the 2014 MLS Cup champions.

Villarreal, a native of nearby Inglewood, capitalized on the first chance to fill Donovan’s spot on the left side of the Galaxy’s midfield. After a handful of early near-misses, he buried a quick shot when two Chicago defenders failed to clear Stefan Ishizaki’s cross.