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LAFC remain unbeaten after D.C. rout

LAFC

WASHINGTON D.C. (April 6, 2019) – It wasn’t supposed to be this way. In what was to be the first tough test for second-year club, LAFC, many expected today to be a grind. That was not the case. Coming in, D.C. United had only allowed one goal. Los Angeles, looking to remain unbeaten, were coming off a 5-0 thrashing of the San Jose Quakes.

LAFC remain unbeaten after four goal rout of DC United

LAFC came in with a clear game plan that was executed to perfection. Knowing they had a tough defense in front of them, the objective was to press the midfield and set up the counter attack. Mission accomplished. In the 15th minute Adama Diomande won control of a rogue ball in the midfield and found Carlos Vela who’s left foot gave LAFC an early lead. However, that was only the start and in the 27th minute Carlos Vela got involved again. With a streaking Diego Rossi, Vela put a perfect ball into the box and Rossi converted for the second of the day.

Diego Rossi would continue to add to his tally before the end of the first half. Mark-Anthony Kaye showed incredible work rate in the 32nd minute as he lost possession, won it back and found Rossi. That gave LAFC a commanding 0-3 lead at halftime. The second half saw LAFC content to ride out the win with possession. DC United never had a chance at a comeback when in the 52nd minute goal threat Wayne Rooney was sent off. Diego Rossi got his hat-trick in the 76th minute with the last goal of the day. In the end, LAFC finished with four goals and three points.

THREE THINGS

Tactical Brilliance

Los Angeles have yet to misstep tactically this season. With a tough defensive opponent they switched from their familiar wingback heavy tactics, to a more subdued, counter attack style. That proved to be the right move as LAFC immediately found chances and eventually, goals.

Statement Made

As I mentioned, it wasn’t supposed to be like this. A heavyweight fight between top teams in their respective conference. DC United, having yet allowed a goal at home, conceded several. LAFC didn’t just win, they made it look easy. This latest win gives them a combined score of 9-0 in their last two matches. If there were any doubts, those are now gone as the best team in the MLS clearly resides in the heart of Los Angeles.

Unsung Heroes

The back four. All of them have been in excellent form this season. The improvement not just individually, but as a unit, has been incredible to witness. Over the last three matches, LAFC have conceded only once, with the most recent wins both clean sheets. Walker Zimmerman and Eddie Segura have quickly formed one of, if not the best, partnership in the league. Segura’s six month loan ends soon, but with an option to buy, it would be shocking if he isn’t an official member of the Black and Gold soon.

Looking Ahead

Los Angeles will be back at The Banc next week. They host new club, FC Cincinnati. Sitting at a respectable 5th in the Eastern Conference, FC Cincinnati has shown flashes of talent and ability. Clearly not a team to shy away, they will come into Los Angeles ready to shock the league. No team is to be taken lightly, but given the absolute laser focus LAFC have, it is hardly a concern. Expect LAFC to come out on all cylinders, feeding off the frenzied fans ready to cheer on their team. FC Cincinnati may get one, but not much else.

Injury News

LAFC Striker, Adama Diomande left the match in the 28th minute with a hamstring injury. The extent and duration of time he is  expected to be out,  is not yet known at the time of this story.

 

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