LA Galaxy at FC Dallas match preview

After a comprehensive victory over a weakened Sounder lineup, how will LA perform when they travel to Texas to take on FC Dallas this Saturday? (6 pm, Time Warner Cable SportsNet and Deportes)

For Bruce and company, fitness has got to be a priority. A few weeks ago, Steven Gerrard struggled mightily to acclimate to the hot humid summer weather as LA were overrun by the Houston Dynamo. With a few games under his belt and his relationship with Juninho starting to form, can Gerrard make more of an impact in Dallas? (Temperatures are predicted to be in the mid 90s at kickoff)

Expect Giovani dos Santos to be a bit stronger this week after going 69 minutes in his MLS debut as the El Tri regular works his way into full fitness. As Sean pointed out earlier, a partnership with Robbie Keane might not be ideal. However, that being said, a front six of Keane, dos Santos, Sebastian Lletget, Steven Gerrard, Juninho and Gyasi Zardes is still capable of tearing apart most teams.

Donovan Ricketts, who with the exception of a bobbled cross had a fine game, is another Galaxy player in need of playing time.

FC Dallas are in strong form at the moment, having won their last four matches before falling to Chicago on the road. If young DP playmaker Mauro Diaz can combine with electrifying winger Fabian Castillo, they will trouble the Galaxy vack four. Panamanian international Blas Perez has been absent recovering from Gold Cup duty but should be available this weekend.

LA is currently two points ahead of FCD in the Western Conference standings, but FCD has a three game cushion. After defeating the Rapids and nabbing their first road win in almost a year, can the Galaxy keep the momentum going against a full-strength FC Dallas side?