After a lot of hype before the big game between Los Angeles Galaxy and New York City FC, it was the Galaxy side that came out on top as they completely dominated the game to win 5-1 and top the Western Conference table. Goals from Gyasi Zardes, Robbie Keane (2 goals), Giovani dos Santos and Sebastian Lletget ensured they would take all three points. David Villa scored a consolation goal for New York City, albeit from the penalty spot.
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Frank Lampard was expected to start for New York but eventually did not take part as he recovers from a calf injury. Both David Villa and Andrea Pirlo started the game but they were unable to make an impact as Galaxy ran riot in the second half.
Galaxy took the lead when New York City went to sleep after conceding a foul in their own half. As the City players turned their back on the ball, Galaxy took a quick free kick which found its way to Robbie Keane. The Irish forward then put in a quick cross which was headed home by an unmarked Gyasi Zardes.
Keane doubled the lead nine minutes into the second half when he was released down the middle and chipped the onrushing goalkeeper Josh Saunders. Dos Santos then scored from a similar move when he made a run after his marker lost him while trying to prevent a pass.
Sebastian Lletget then scored from inside the six-yard box from a well-placed Steven Gerrard pass after a beautifully orchestrated move that saw the ex-Liverpool midfielder string passes with the midfield before carrying it forward and creating space for himself to make the final pass.
David Villa then scored when City won a penalty in the 80th minute, with Dan Gargan conceding the foul. However, Keane completed his brace only a minute later when the defence were caught out again, allowing Keane to make a simple run and tap-in. Keane also scored LA Galaxy’s 1000th league goal.
After the game, Steven Gerrard said: “I've come here to win the league. It's all about finishing strong and taking maximum points,” as reported by BBC.
“It's nice to come out on top and we controlled the majority of the game.”
