CARSON, Calif. – Key to the LA Galaxy’s success in their 3-0 victory over Seattle Sounders FC in the Western Conference Championship First Leg was the play of right back Sean Frankin.
Against Seattle, Franklin had one of his finest game consistently terrorizing Seattle’s left back Zach Scott to the tune of two assists. To show just how effective the right back has been in the last two games, Franklin has more assists –three—than he had in his first 12 postseason games.
Franklin wasn’t certain if it was his finest game, but he was pleased with his performance going forward.
“Possibly, I was able to get in some good spots and David found me a couple times, Robbie played me some good balls,” said Franklin. “It’s all about picking the right time to go forward and maybe I could have had two or three assists in the first half if I play a better final ball, but I was able to get one in the second half.”
A considerable part of Franklin’s success was his ability to combine with right wing Christian Wilhelmsson. Throughout the match, the duo repeatedly overlapped to create problems for the Seattle left flank.
If Wilhelmsson and Franklin are placed on the right again, they might face a different Sounders group as midfielder Mauro Rosales is expected to return to the fold in the second leg at Centurylink Field, which would allow Brad Evans to resume his post on the left flank.
But ahead of the second leg, Franklin believes that despite LA’s three goal lead, the series is by no means over.
“We know it’s going to be a crazy game on the 18th,” said Franklin. “They’ve got a crazy fan base, they’re a pretty good side at home and we know they’re going to be coming to get some goals so we’ve just got to be sharp, stick to our game plan and be prepared for all that.”
