MLS Regular Season
Score: Sounders FC 1 at LA Galaxy 3
Goal-scorers: Chad Barrett (1’), Gyasi Zardes (13’), Robbie Keane (47’), Giovani dos Santos (64’)
Site: StubHub Center
Man of the Match: Erik Friberg. In his fourth appearance since re-signing with Sounders FC on June 29, the Swedish midfielder was effective on crosses and in keeping possession. Friberg assisted Chad Barrett’s goal in the opening minute, curling a ball around Omar Gonzalez to find Barrett for a volley at the far post. That was the fastest goal scored against the Galaxy since 2009.
Telling Stat: Despite ending the longest scoring drought in club history, Sounders FC suffered its fifth straight defeat in MLS play. The Galaxy controlled the run of play against the short-handed Rave Green, owning 59 percent of possession and taking eight more shots than Seattle. With its victory, LA improved to 10-1-2 at the StubHub Center this season.
What You Missed: Brad Evans played in the midfield for the first time this season, as Zach Scott started at centerback alongside Chad Marshall. Clint Dempsey did not travel with the team due to a hamstring strain that he suffered in training on Friday. For the Galaxy, new Designated Players Steven Gerrard and Giovani dos Santos made their first career appearances against Seattle.
So What: Sounders FC remains in sixth place in the Western Conference with 10 games remaining. The club is optimistic that some of the players who missed Sunday’s match will be able to play next weekend, when the Rave Green host Orlando City SC for the very first time.
