Even in defeat, Beckham shows he is still a winner

Former England captain gives his fans their money's worth

David Beckham showed he still has that magical touch although the LA Galaxy failed to make the most of it as they ended their Asian tour on a losing note, being beaten on penalties by a South China Invitation XI.

The former England captain scored a penalty in the dying seconds of normal time to level scores at 2-2, but even another successful kick from the spot in the shootout failed to inspire his team, who were edged out 5-4.

But Beckham was happy after putting on a sparkling show for the 14,000-strong crowd at Hong Kong Stadium. They oohed and aahed every time he touched the ball. His trademark crosses were spot on.

He floated, guided, rocketed, directed, drifted and rifled in the crosses with pin-point accuracy from the right wing. Unfortunately his Galaxy teammates, Greg Vanney, Peter Vagenas and Carlos Ruiz, were not quite up to the mark and failed to capitalise on the exquisite talents of their captain. The past three weeks in Seoul, Shanghai and Hong Kong must have taken a toll.

'It can be frustrating for everybody when you are not converting chances. But that's just football. Some days you score loads of goals, and some days you don't. That is life,' said Beckham philosophically.

He was equally thoughtful when asked about his chances of winning a much-desired 100th cap for England.