SEATTLE -- We're just a few hours away from tonight's Western Conference Championship Second Leg between the LA Galaxy and Seattle Sounders FC.
Remember, the Galaxy hold a 3-0 aggregate lead on Seattle and away goals DO NOT count in this competition. Over 43,000 are expected at rainy and cold CenturyLink Field tonight as Seattle look to fight their way back into the series and prevent LA from advancing to MLS Cup.
Also, the Galaxy will be wearing white tonight against Seattle's rave green.
As we get close to game time, check out some my observations and links to get you to kick off...
The forecast calls for temperatures in the low 50s with plenty of rain, but according to the Galaxy that suits them just fine.
Key to LA's success in the first leg was the play of goalkeeper Josh Saunders, who will likely be under plenty of pressure on Sunday night.
Landon Donovan is not only optimistic about his ability to participate on Sunday, but also promises that LA won't be thinking "defense-first" when the match kicks off.
Meanwhile, head coach Bruce Arena is optimistic that Juninho will be available on Sunday, but if he does not, Marcelo Sarvas feels ready to step in.
Tommy Meyer will get his first look at the cauldron that is CenturyLink Field and he is relishing the challenge of playing in front of the Seattle crowd.
For a more general look at the game, LAGalaxy.com staff writer Larry Morgan offers his game preview.
MATCH UPS:
Omar Gonzalez/Tommy Meyer vs. Fredy Montero/Eddie Johnson
The most important match up of the night as LA's in-form centerbacks look to hold down a Seattle offensive tandem that is desperate to help Seattle claw back into the series
Christian Wilhelmsson vs. Zach Scott
According to Sigi Schmid after the second leg, the Galaxy "found a lot of joy" against Scott in the first leg and expect Wilhelmsson and right back Sean Franklin to attack him at will.
The two veteran coaches are facing a major battle of wits as Schmid attempts to break down Arena's organized Galaxy side that will be eager to hit Seattle on the break.
PREDICTED LINEUP: Saunders; Franklin, Gonzalez, Meyer, Dunivant; Magee, Sarvas, Beckham, Wilhelmsson; Buddle, Keane
*Lastly, check out my Three Points to the game
