LA Galaxy vs Chicago Fire: 3 Thoughts on MLS Season Opener
Mar 6, 2015; Carson, CA, USA; Los Angeles Galaxy forward Jose Villarreal (5) celebrates with teammates after scoring a goal against the Chicago Fire during the second half at StubHub Center. The Galaxy won 2-0. Mandatory Credit: Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports
The champs will be difficult to dethrone
The LA Galaxy made a statement right out the gate. Many clubs may have a difficult time being up to the task after a banner raising ceremony, but it was the defending champs that came out with hunger. The tenacity from the Galaxy forwards and midfield once they lost the ball forced plenty of errant Chicago passes and decisions. LA were calm on the ball and vicious with the attack once they moved the ball up the pitch.
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Robbie Keane was in MLS Cup MVP form as his deft touches, especially in the second half when the Fire were losing their legs, led to some wonderful opportunities and eventually a goal for the Irish talisman. Stefan Ishizaki, sans the pass he messed up to an open Keane, and Jose Villarreal were causing fits with their pacey runs and ability to open the Fire defense up to the wings. Upon spreading out the Fire defense, the Galaxy were able to work the ball back to the middle or put in dangerous crosses into space.
There is no denying that the center back pair of Omar Gonzalez and Leonaro were fantastic. Not only did they thwart many of the Fire efforts away from goal, but they were extraordinary passing from the back. It was Gonzalez’s pinpoint chip that set up the second Galaxy goal. Robbie Rogers and Dan Gargan were able to pick out the perfect moments to attack and also realized when their services were required back on defense. Both fullbacks were able to get a good read on the match early and rarely found themselves troubled. A clean sheet was exactly what the doctor ordered for surprise keeper choice, Brian Rowe.
This team will be even more dangerous when Gyasi Zardes is clicking as mentioned earlier and Steven Gerrard is added to the fold. Also keep in mind that AJ DeLaGarza is recovering from injury and will help further anchor the defense. If the LA Galaxy play much of the season like this, it will be difficult to dethrone them.
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