LA Galaxy topple Portland Timbers 3-1

On a humid day in Carson, CA, the LA Galaxy (9-4-6, 33 pts) defeated the Portland Timbers 3-1. Despite the Timbers taking an early lead on a free kick goal, the Galaxy outworked the Timbers all match challenging Ricketts eight times. Their movement with the ball was superb, and once they got a feel for the ball on the new turf the service was excellent.

The traditional powers are on point right now. Landon Donovan combined with Robbie Keane for the go ahead goal, and the movement with the ball up the pitch was superb. LA was able to work in so much space all afternoon partly because Portland starting with tired legs. LA used that to their advantage making the ball do the work.

In their last eleven times taking the pitch, the LA Galaxy have lost just once. This was their first victory of the season after giving up the first goal. The back to back matches with three goals is the first time that's happened this year. Considering they also have a +15 goal differential, it feels safe to say things are going well for LA. The soccer is so choice, and I highly recommend it.

Gyasi Zardes simply can't stop scoring, with a hot streak where he's put in seven goals over the last eight matches. That's a blistering pace, but the goals are coming because the veterans around him are putting the ball in great spaces. Today it was Robbie Rogers putting a perfectly placed cross in his path, but it's also been Robbie Keane opening up spaces and Landon Donovan working inside.

The LA Galaxy host the San Jose Earthquakes on Friday. While they'll have Robbie Keane and Omar Gonzalez for the whole week, Landon Donovan's next stop is in Portland for the All Star Game. How all of this affects his ability to go on Friday will be seen.