LOS ANGLES – Young 19 year old Mexican-American Jose Villarreal took advantage of the numerous absences that the Los Angeles Galaxy had for Saturday night's game against the Vancouver Whitecaps; and made a big impact on the game. Villarreal contributed a goal, which was the tying goal at that moment.

There was a lot of controversy surrounding Villarreal's goal since the assistant referee had lifted his flag to signal an offside position by Villarreal. But there was never any doubt in the young midfielder's mind.

"I knew I wasn't offside, that is why I ran to the center of the field after scoring" said Villarreal in a post game interview.

With the absences of players like Landon Donovan who is with the United States Men's national Team playing in the 2013 Gold Cup and the injury absences of Robbie Kean and Robbie Rodgers; it was young players like Villarreal, Héctor Jiménez, and Gyasi Zardez (all 25 years of age or younger) who got the opportunity in this crucial league game. But Villarreal was quick to say that he is in no way a replacement to Robbie Kean.

"Yes it was important to get the win in spite of all of the absences. But I am nott here to replace Robbie Kean; I only try to help the team out with what ever the team needs. If the team needs someone with a little more defensive sacrifice, then I'll drop down and defend" explained Villarreal.

With the long list of games in various competitions that is coming up for the LA Galaxy Villarreal knows there will be plenty more opportunities to show off his qualities inside of the soccer field.

"Last season I saw more minutes during the Champion's League. I just have to be ready for whenever the couch needs me" concluded the young Mexican-American.

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jonny.rico@sandiegored.com (@jonyrico)