The LA Galaxy entered Monday’s clash with the Vancouver Whitecaps winless in their last seven matches. The performances of the club’s biggest names ushered them back into the win column, even as one of them saw red for another dangerous foul
Robbie Keane provided the opening goal while Steven Gerrard added a pair of assists to lead the Galaxy to a 2-0 victory over the Whitecaps on Tuesday at the StubHub Center. The win snaps the Galaxy’s longest winless streak since 2012.
However, the Galaxy’s evening was not all positive, as 7 Nigel de Jong was sent off for a straight-legged tackle on Blas Perez in the 74th minute. De Jong for three games back in April for a dangerous foul on the Portland Timbers’ Darlington Nagbe.
Keane provided his finish in the 12th minute, giving the Galaxy a much-needed early lead. After receiving a pass from Gerrard, Keane took a touch onto his right foot before curling a shot into the top corner from just outside the box.
Jeff Larentowicz added an insurance goal just two minutes into the second half, all but ending the Whitecaps’ hope of a comeback. Larentowicz separated from his defender in the center of the box on a Gerrard corner, providing an say header from close range.
Statistically, the Whitecaps proved the more aggressive team. The visitors fired 24 shots to the Galaxy’s nine, but could only test Brian Rowe a trio of times.
Despite De Jong’s dimissal, the Galaxy sealed victory heading into Saturday’s clash with the Seattle Sounders, while the Vancouver Whitecaps prepare for a meeting with the Colorado Rapids that same day.
MAN OF THE MATCH
Monday’s match proved just how valuable Robbie Keane is to the Galaxy. His goal set an early tone, while his perfectly-timed runs demonstrated how important he is with his ability to open defenses.
MOMENT OF THE MATCH
The Whitecaps emerged from halftime hoping to pull back into the game, but Jeff Larentowicz’s header pegged them back almost immediately with a demoralizing blow.
MATCH TO FORGET
Nigel de Jong’s reputation looks truer by the day, as the Dutch midfielder’s dismissal will once again open the discussion regarding his habitually dirty tackles.