The Los Angeles Galaxy played a scoreless draw with D.C. United on Friday night to extend their unbeaten streak to seven games and their shutout string to four matches and 411 minutes.
''We just did not have a good performance as a team,'' Galaxy coach Bruce Arena said. ''The fact that we got a point out of this was maybe a miracle.''
The Galaxy (8-2-6) played without scoring star Landon Donovan, away on U.S. national team duty. Galaxy goalkeeper Donovan Ricketts and D.C. United defender Dejan Jakovic also had international obligations.
''We have to forget this performance. It was a disappointing, flat performance,'' Galaxy midfielder David Beckham said. ''No matter who was not playing, who was playing, we're better than that.''
D.C. United (4-4-4) is 2-0-3 in its last five games.
Charlie Davies nearly put United ahead in the 81st minute. Davies made his way behind the defense and dribbled around goalkeeper Josh Saunders, but an off-balance shot at an open net soared wide right.
''It's unfortunate. I think we should have left with three points tonight,'' Davies said. ''On another day, I finish that chance and we're leaving here 1-0.''
Davies returned after missed two weeks of action because of a strained hamstring. It was a minor setback in his comeback from a 2009 car accident that left him severely injured.
Davies said he received a huge boost of confidence last week thanks to a phone call from U.S. coach Bob Bradley, informing him that we was considered for a roster spot for the upcoming CONCACAF Gold Cup.
''After having a conversation like that, it only gives me more of a boost, more determination to get back,'' said Davies, who had 16 caps with the U.S. squad. ''And I know I'm that close. Which makes it even sweeter, to know that if I put in that little extra work I'm going to get there.
''That's my second family. I'm not going to feel good until I get back.''
Galaxy midfielder Juninho sprained his left ankle in the first half and didn't return for the second half.
