Since MLS went to a two-leg conference semifinals playoff format in 2003, the Los Angeles Galaxy have never lost in that round. Los Angeles heads into the second leg of the Western Conference semis against Real Salt Lake with the advantage Thursday night, but it feels like it should be ahead by much more after dominating play at home in the series opener. The Galaxy, trying to become the first team to win the MLS Cup three straight times while securing a league-record fifth title, got a goal from Sean Franklin - who scored once in the regular season - in the 48th minute Sunday to come away with a 1-0 lead after the first leg. And while each team registered two shots on goal, it appeared to be a one-sided match with the Galaxy dominating possession and holding down a Real Salt Lake team that finished first in the West with 57 goals. More...