The Los Angeles Galaxy opened up their 2012 MLS account with a 3-1 loss to Real Salt Lake. Then, they turned things around with a 3-1 victory over D.C. United. Now, they have a chance to earn another three points against the New England Revolution. A win would boost the Galaxy's position in the standings and pave the way for a successful season. Here is what I hope to see at the game.
Cohesiveness
The Galaxy had almost two weeks off. After resting, the team got back into training. Considering many of our players had hardly trained together in the preseason, this additional time should be beneficial. I hope to see our backline work as a unit and more chemistry up top with Keane and Buddle.
Landon Donovan
So far this season, Donovan has had to recover from a bout of bronchitis. Now, there is a possibility the Galaxy captain could be sidelined with a quad injury. Donovan missed the March 29 training session due to this injury. David Beckham says "it's not a big issue." Still, this may mean that Donovan is not 100%. Yes, our midfield is strong. We have plenty of players to fill in gaps. Still, Donovan is one of the best and his presence makes a difference in the way we play.
A Solid Defense
It's not any secret that our defense is the shakiest part of our team right now. A.J. DeLaGarza has a big role and he needs to step up as a leader. Andrew Boyens and Tommy Meyer have both stepped into the central defensive position and have been burned. Even though we won the D.C. United game, we allowed Nick DeLeon to sneak past our back line and score a goal. Hopefully, the additional training will help our defense.
Intensity
Like the Galaxy, the Revolution had a disappointing start in the season. So far in 2012, the New England Revolution have two losses and one win. The Galaxy have one win and one loss. The Galaxy are favored to win the game. Yet, the Revs shouldn't be underestimated. In their last game against the Portland Timbers, Saer Sene scored a very early goal to give the Revolution their first victory of the season. The Galaxy can't let in an early goal and they can't let players slip through our defense. Furthermore, we need to be hungry in front of the net.
This is the only league meeting between Los Angeles and New England this season. Let's keep the winning momentum going!
Melissa Matters is a long time Los Angeles resident and devoted Los Angeles Galaxy fan.
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