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For those who've tuned into LAFC press conferences, you're almost certainly familiar with the popular Bob Bradley-ism, Every game is a big game. That sentiment took on a more urgent meaning, however, this past Sat., Oct. 16, as 9th-place LAFC faced off against 10th-place San Jose Earthquakes.
With just 6 games left in regular season play, both teams are entering emergency mode if they hope to nudge their way into a playoff spot.
LAFC opened the scoresheet just 3 minutes into game play, with a cheeky backheel assist from Colombian international Cristian Arango to Daniel Musovski.
Arango, a new addition to LAFC this season from Millonarios, added a second goal after Earthquake midfielder Jackson Yueill brought down Arango in the box. Arango deftly converted the penalty but not before some yellow card-inducing antics from James Marcinkowski.
The Earthquakes would pull one back come second half with a close range shot off a corner kick finished by Carlos Fierro. In 90 degree temperature, both teams made a number of subs, most notably Brian Rodriguez coming in late in the second for Musovski.
Rodriguez, who arrived back late Friday night from international duty, took no time taking on Earthquake defenders one-on-one, eventually assisting Arango in the 88th minute to seal a 3-1 victory for the home side.
While LAFC have the better overall head-to-head record, the Earthquakes have bested the Black and Gold their past two meetings. LAFC have also been experimenting with a revolving door of lineups and formations, in part because of injuries to major players Carlos Vela and Eddie Segura, as well as the recent transfer of Diego Rossi. In fact, the Earthquakes outperformed LAFC on the stat sheet in possession, total shots, and completed passes, but were unable to create or finish big chances.
After all the weekend results were tallied LAFC remain in 9th place, but will no doubt hope to capitalize against 11th place FC Dallas this coming Wednesday.
UP NEXT:
LAFC v FC Dallas at Dallas: Wed. Oct. 20,
5pmSan Jose Earthquakes v Austin FC at Austin: Wed., Oct. 20, 7:30pm