After last Saturday’s shut out victory over the San Jose Earthquakes, Columbus Crew SC heads west this week for a road clash with the LA Galaxy. But prior to kickoff from the StubHub Center, here’s a look at three things to know about the Galaxy.
Series History and Last Matchup
The Black & Gold hold the advantage in the all-time series against LA, with a 16-14-10 record in 40 games played. The last matchup between these two MLS originals came on June 13, 2015, a 1-1 draw at MAPFRE Stadium.
Fabulous Form
Since losing to Toronto FC on the road June 18, the Galaxy have gone unbeaten in 11 of their last 12 MLS regular season matches — including a four-match winning streak between July 4 and July 23. LA also has lost just four games this season, and is tied for the League lead in most draws with 13.
Although they haven't lost at the Stub Hub Center yet this year, the Galaxy are winless in their last six MLS regular season games and seven in all competitions.
Loaded Lineup
The Galaxy have an enormous amount of talent on their roster, ranging from Designated Players Steven Gerrard, Giovani dos Santos, and Robbie Keane, to other big names like Ashley Cole, and Gyasi Zardes. These six have combined for 26 goals and assists in 2016 — with dos Santos and Gerrard leading the way in each category with nine goals and 11 assists, respectively.
The probability of seeing all of their stars on the field is a different situation. Zardes suffered a broken foot in LA's scoreless draw against Vancouver last weekend, Nigel De Jong moved to Galatasaray in Turkey before the closing of the transfer window and Robbie Keane participated in international duty with the Republic of Ireland — playing his final match on Wednesday before retiring from international play.
