LA Galaxy vs. Chivas USA match preview and prediction thread

The LA Galaxy are expected to beat Chivas USA today. LA are fighting for playoff position while Chivas are already eliminated from the race. The Galaxy have won eight of their last ten matches against Chivas in all competitions. With the Galaxy donning their third kits today, let's take a peak at the "Who Scored?" report and see what we can expect.

First going over the injury report, LA will likely be without Leonardo and Robbie Rogers, and with A.J. DeLaGarza out that will require some shuffling. Sean Franklin should start on the back line with Omar Gonzalez, Todd Dunivant, and Kofi Opare. The rookie has shown well when called on recently and jumped ahead of Tommy Meyer on the depth chart.

In the midfield, we'll likely see Hector Jimenez and Gyasi Zardes on the wings again. If that's the case, it'll be interesting to see if the offense looks as one sided as it did in Portland. If Jimenez is the starter, he has to be trusted with some of the load in the final offensive third.

Up top should be the pairing of Landon Donovan and Robbie Keane. Against the Chivas defense and the wide open space of the StubHub Center, they should find their pockets to work in.

LA's midfield struggled against Portland's 4-3-3, but shouldn't have the same issues if Chivas comes out in a five man midfield. Picking out passing lanes should be easier, as the list of things Chivas is very weak on is long. Keeping possession, defending set pieces, avoiding fouling in dangerous areas, defending attacks down the wings, defending against through ball attacks. Many of those are midfield issues.

What are your predictions for the upcoming match?