The San Jose Earthquakes and FC Dallas have had a peculiar rivalry – one built on sustained stretches of success and failure unlike many others. Dallas won seven of the first nine meetings between the two clubs from 1996 to 1998, three wins coming by way of shootout, to jump out to an early advantage in the series.
But as if someone flipped a switch, the Quakes went on a tear beginning in 2001, winning nine of the next 10. In fact, San Jose lost just twice to the Lone Star club from May 23, 2001 to June 6, 2009, a span of 20 games (11-2-7).