The LA Galaxy won their third match out of their last four after winning 2-0 against FC Cincinnati on the road.
This victory keeps the Galaxy (10-6-1) in second place on 31 points.
Guillermo Barros Schellotto had to make a couple of changes to his regular starting lineup due to injuries and the CONCACAF Gold Cup.
Perry Kitchen slotted in midfield for Jonathan Dos Santos, who is currently away with the Mexican National Team. In defense, Dave Romney replaces Jorgen Skjelvik at right back, who did not train with this past week.
Only three minutes had eclipsed when the Galaxy nearly broke open the deadlock. A free kick was taken quickly and Romney could have put the ball home from close range off of a cross.
Galaxy score twice in three minutes
Emmanuel Boateng grabbed his first goal of the season 12 minutes into the match. He brought down a passover the top superbly before wrapping his left foot around the ball, sliding is effort into the bottom right corner.
It took just three minutes for the Galaxy to find goal number two, through Favio Alvarez, who scored his second MLS goal.
FC Cincinnati had trouble clearing their lines and could have avoided disaster. However, they did not and the 26-year-old took full advantage of his opportunity. Alvarez latched onto the loose ball and found the back of the net in the 15th minute.
The home side started to gain confidence though and got a couple of good looks at goal before the first half was over.
Kekuta Manneh struck a near post attempt towards goal which David Bingham managed to stop but he left a big rebound up for grabs. Emmanuel Ledesma was there to try to clean up the mess but managed to hit his header over the goal.
Galaxy had chances to extend lead
The Galaxy could have had a penalty opportunity seven minutes after the restart. Justin Hoyte blocked an initial shot with what looked like his arm.
Then, on another block, it appeared as though that he fell on top of the ball. Neither the referee or the VAR looked to review the play.
David Bingham made an excellent diving save from a shot outside the box in the 80th minute to preserve his shutout.
Then, the FCC goalkeeper, Spencer Richey produced a couple of fine saves moments later. Once again, Alvarez capitalized on a loose ball opportunity and tried to score from outside the area, but could not beat Richey. Alvarez played a quick one-two with Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who had his near post shot saved.
Next Up
The LA Galaxy will take on the San Jose Earthquakes in the Cali Clasico next Saturday at Stanford Stadium. Kickoff for that match is scheduled for 7 pm.
Image via LA Galaxy
