After coming off 2 straight losses in non-MLS play, the Galaxy (10-2-9) come home to HDC finding themselves one point clear of surging Seattle and 4 points clear of FC Dallas who have 2 games in hand. Needless to say, a win is needed to keep the wolves at bay. Columbus (7-5-7) comes to town in 3rd place in the East and can jump to first with a win tomorrow night. The Crew come off a scoreless draw over San Jose Earthquakes Saturday for their 7th draw for the year.
The Galaxy may be without David Beckham, Sean Franklin, Mike Magee, and Chad Barrett due to injury. Beckham and Franklin seem the most likely to play this weekend, but those are obviously not certainties. The Crew will be without MF Dilly Duka and possibly Emilo Renteria. The injuries to the Crew cause them to move to a 4-5-1 formation which can hinder the Galaxy’s midfield play, which is already prone to giveaways. I expect the Crew to bunker down and try to gain chances on counters. This may work out in the Galaxy’s defense’s favor as there isn’t anyone that would be considered a speedy option, something that the back line struggled with against Chicago. So long as everyone stays mentally focused on defense, there shouldn’t be a problem.
Of course, the major problem of the Galaxy right now will be goal production. At this point, it’s pretty much a given point that should be in any recap. That being said, the injuries to the Galaxy create an opportunity for some young blood to make an appearance tonight. Adam Cristman has two goals across the Galaxy’s last 2 games, which is 1 less than Chad Barrett and 2 less than leading striker Juan Pablo Angel. He obviously won’t start, but I would be surprise if he doesn’t see some time tonight.
Even with a depleted squad and lack of offense, the Galaxy’s weapon should be able beat the Crew. That being said, it won’t be a blow out. Crew GK Will Hesmer is coming off back to back shutouts and the Galaxy have been known to have a day off from the shooting range. All in all, I fully expect the Galaxy to come out with 3 points.
(image courtesy of Getty Images)
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