CARSON, Calif. – The LA Galaxy are hoping to jumpstart Giovani dos Santos’ production on Saturday when they face off against Orlando City SC.
Dos Santos has scored just once this season in the team’s home opener in four appearances for the club this season. Despite the limited statistical production, dos Santos has looked sharp in two consecutive games since returning from a hamstring injury.
Following the Galaxy’s 2-0 victory over the Montreal Impact last Friday, head coach Curt Onalfo told reporters that the team is looking to get the ball to their Mexican attacker quicker to best utilize the dangerous runs he’s making in attacking areas.
“He made great runs [on Friday]. He didn’t necessarily get rewarded but he created space for other players, and that’s all part of it,” Onalfo said. “He needs just to keep doing what he’s doing, and the goals and assists will come. I’m really pleased with where he’s at and where he’s headed.
“The best players you have to find them the ball early. He makes intelligent runs that are decoy runs as well. What will happen as we build on consistency and a consistent lineup, all the understanding, and rhythm will come out. That’s when he’s going to find even more moments and can translate that into goals and assists. He’s working really hard. … He looks sharper and sharper each day. I have tons of confidence in him.”
Dos Santos for his credit is undeterred by a lack of scoring to start the season and remains confident that the goals will come.
“I am just going to keep working. I’m working really hard. I’m close to scoring, and the chances will come,” dos Santos said. “The team is doing well, and the confidence is getting better for everyone. I’m not worried about it. The most important thing is the team and as soon as I am more confident than the chances will come.”
