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Beckham plays full match for Galaxy

Sun 16 Mar, 08:30 AM


David Beckham came safely through 90 minutes for LA Galaxy in their friendly with FC Dallas in front of England general manager Franco Baldini.Baldini was sent by England manager Fabio Capello to assess Beckham's match fitness ahead of England's March 26 friendly against France at Stade de France as the former Manchester United and Real Madrid midfielder looks for his 100th cap.

Beckham was hoping to demonstrate to Baldini and Capello that he is ready to train and play for England, if given the opportunity with Capello all but assuring him of that chance.

Against FC Dallas, Beckham played the full game of the scoreless draw and did not look the worse for wear after what has been a gruelling pre-season for the Galaxy.

In the first half, he took six corners and just missed the left post with a 25-yard free kick.

The 32-year-old was accurate with his through-balls going forward, attempting to find strikers Alan Gordon and Alvaro Pires and midfielder Landon Donovan.

Showing no ill-effects from the ankle injuries that plagued his initial season with the Galaxy, Beckham did not shy away from physical contact.

FC Dallas midfielder David Wagenfuhr and defender Adrian Serioux were given the task of marking Beckham.

In the 33rd minute, however, Beckham did appear to get into a dispute with FC Dallas' Andre Rocha over some excessive kicking.

Then, in the 87th minute, Beckham was given a yellow card for dissent from referee Abbey Okulaje.

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