CARSON, Calif. – Robbie Keane had the hat trick. Robbie Rogers made major American professional team sports history.
But arguably the player who had the best showing in the LA Galaxy’s 4-0 win over Seattle Sounders FC was midfielder Michael Stephens.
The four-year MLS veteran enjoyed, arguably, the finest performance of his career in LA's trouncing of Seattle. Stephens was a bundle of energy throughout his 90 minute shift as he continually pestered the Sounders from his post on LA's left flank. The stat sheet was kind to the 24-year-old, who completed 37 of his 47 passes—one of which being a key pass to set up a scoring opportunity—as well as seven recoveries.
“I thought Mike Stephens had an excellent night tonight. He was incredibly busy; he put a lot of pressure on them,” said Arena. “His passing was good, he got the ball off his feet, he was active, and [it was] Mikey’s best performance this year.”
LA captain Robbie Keane was quick to agree.
“I thought Mikey did very well,” said Keane. "Mikey is full of energy and especially tonight, the system that they play suited us actually.”
After going to the distance against Sounders FC, Stephens may see limited in LA’s U.S. Open Cup third round clash against the Carolina RailHawks on Wednesday, but will likely be in contention for a start against the New England Revolution.
