The Los Angeles Galaxy were not only able to win their third match of the week, but also secure their third clean sheet of the week.
This was LA’s fourth straight win in all competitions. In their last four matches, LA has outscored their opponents 13-2. A huge difference from the beginning of the season, when LA had trouble not only scoring, but also preventing other teams from scoring against them. While LA has been on a winning streak, Vancouver…..not so much. Coming into this match, Vancouver had lost their previous three matches- to Dallas, Real Salt Lake, and Portland. This was a match that Vancouver needed to win in order to keep their hopes for MLS Cup playoffs alive. Unfortunately for them (but fortunately for Galaxy fans), LA was able to get all three points from this match.
Although LA did win by a 2-0 scoreline, this was not an easy match for them. Vancouver’s back up keeper made some great saves (7 in total) and their backline, led by former USMNT player Jay DeMerit, were tough to get through. Between the two teams though, LA had way more chances to score. LA would have to wait until the 44th minute to get on the scoreboard. It was definitely worth the wait. Juninho scored a golazo, just a minute before HT. This was a goal that LA fans have come to expect from Juninho. Here, check it out for yourself.
The second half started and although LA continued getting chances, Vancouver’s backline wouldn’t let LA through. Finally in the 79th minute, LA Galaxy was on the scoreboard for the second time, thanks to David Beckham. After a Vancouver foul, LA were awarded a free kick. As always, Beckham stepped up to take it. It was such a well taken free kick that the Vancouver keeper didn’t have time to react: all he could do was standby and watch as Beckham doubled LA’s lead.
Both of these goals were so impressive, they were nominated for MLS Goal of the Week. You can vote for them here. LA’s next game will be on September 14th, against Colorado Rapids, yet another team that has been struggling lately. LA Galaxy will be once again playing at the Home Depot Center.
(image courtesy of Robert Mora/LA Galaxy)
