After back to back matches which Sigi Schmid’s side let two goals lead slip, frustration is the operative word to describe the mood inside the Galaxy locker room.

Not that LA have time to dwell on poor results. Columbus is coming to town Saturday night (7:30 PT, Spectrum SportsNet) and Greg Berhalter’s side are a well-drilled unit who attack with purpose and a clear identity. Expect the Crew to boss the game if the Galaxy don’t have a game plan.

What to watch

Are LA still in preseason? For the umpteenth time on Wednesday, Sigi was forced to field a makeshift lineup vs. D.C. United.

Injuries and call-ups have decimated the roster in 2018, forcing the coaching staff into constant lineup rotations and formation changes that have robbed the team of any ability of build familiarity and cohesion, especially in the back. 17 games into the season, it remains basically impossible to describe the team’s playing style.

This shouldn’t be pinned on Schmid, he simply hasn’t had his attacking pieces available. Out of the three Designated Players, Alessandrini has the most league appearances with 12, while neither dos Santos brother has featured in half the games.

With the World Cup done and dusted for Mexico, Gio and Jona should be ready for selection. (Key word: should)

What is the future of the Galaxy back line? Word is that No. 2 SuperDraft pick Tomas Hilliard-Arce was inserted into the starting lineup after improving in training. However with LA interested in signing U.S. international Geoff Cameron, could we see a major change in the back line? (After all, the Galaxy probably don’t sign Cameron without exercising the one-time release clause on Michael Ciani’s inflated contract)

Gyasi Zardes is back! If you haven’t been paying attention, the Hawthorne native has integrated seamlessly into Berhalter’s system, putting away an impressive 11 (11!) goals in just 19 appearances. Hector Jimenez and Jon Kempin also return Saturday.

Predicted starting 11

How to Watch

Date/Time: July 7th, 7:30 p.m.
Venue: StubHub Center
TV: Spectrum SportsNet & Spectrum Deportes
Stream (outside of LA): ESPN+

Officials

Referee Hilario Grajeda, ARs Jonathan Johnson, Eduard Mariscal and 4th official Ismir Pekmic. VAR: Ramy Touchan