Beckham lauds Donovan hat trick in Galaxy romp

David Beckham can see progress in his Los Angeles Galaxy teammates and the English midfielder has contributed some kicks of his own in the team's climb up the Major League Soccer standings.

American Landon Donovan scored three goals and countryman Alan Gordon netted a pair with Beckham contributing an assist Saturday night in the Galaxy's 5-2 rout of Chivas USA in a Los Angeles local derby.

Donovan leads the league with eight goals and the victory boosted the Galaxy to 2-2 with one drawn for seven points, one behind pace-setter Dallas in the Western Conference.

“I'm trying to be more assertive and aggressive and I feel that I'm reaping the benefits of that,” Donovan said. “I've been more aware of my opportunities and I'm taking them and it's paying off.”

With Beckham providing his trademark skillful crosses into the middle, those opportunities are coming more often and producing rewards.

“He's scoring goals and that's what counts,” Beckham said. “He's a special player. He proved what he's able to do. He's good in the box and from outside.”