Best in the West: Minnesota United 0, LA Galaxy 1

The LA Galaxy traveled to Minnesota with another chance at ending the night atop the Western conference with a win. Several debutants took the field for the Galaxy, and they did not disappoint, defeating Minnesota United 1-0 on Saturday at Allianz Field.

Minnesota United had their foot on the gas early. Jonathan Klinsmann, a surprise starter in goal, was put to the test early in his first start of the season, coming up with a huge save in just the third minute.

The majority of the first half was controlled by Minnesota, who looked the favorites to open scoring in the first 30 minutes.

However, it isn't how you start, but how you finish, and the Galaxy finished the half strong. In the 43rd minute, the Galaxy took their lead. DP Kevin Cabral, and another player on his debut, Dejan Joveljić, combined for some artistic attacking, ending with Cabral splitting the defense, and using his speed to create the space he needed for the finish.

The game plan for the Galaxy in the second half was to play smart, take minimal risks, and see out the one-goal win. As expected, the Loons didn't go quietly, as they peppered the goal with shots throughout the second half. Minnesota put on over ten shots in the second half, with the Galaxy only taking four. Klinsmann added to his stellar performance with several big saves in the second half, to keep the clean sheet.

Once the final whistle blew, the LA Galaxy had secured the big win on the road, and secured first place in the Western Conference. The Galaxy will be back home, and back on the pitch, in just a few days as they host the Colorado Rapids Tuesday night.

What do you think of the win on the road? Leave a comment below!