Ashley Cole has apologized to Steven Gerrard after missing a penalty in the LA Galaxy's shootout defeat to the Colorado Rapids in the MLS Western Conference semifinals.
The Galaxy triumphed 1-0 in the first leg in California but lost by the same scoreline at Dick's Sporting Goods Park on Sunday, with extra time unable to separate the two sides.
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Gerrard converted the opening spot kick of the penalty shootout but Giovani dos Santos, Cole and Jeff Larentowicz failed to score from 12 yards.
Feeling partially to blame for Gerrard, 36, missing out on a first league title of his decorated career, Cole issued an apology to his teammate.
"Back to LA sad, disappointed, angry, penalty kicks are there for someone to be a hero [and] I was not," he wrote in an Instagram post. "Now it's time to think, reflect and try to put behind [us] a tough season.
"Thank you to my teammates, staff and everyone involved with LA Galaxy, and a special thanks and apology to the legend that is Steven Gerrard. I don't know what's going to happen but it's been a pleasure to play alongside you for club and country."