CARSON, Calif. – Late goals have plagued the LA Galaxy in their two defeats, but against the Portland Timbers, LA showed the poise in closing out halves that has eluded them recently.
During their 5-0 defeat to the New England Revolution and 3-1 loss to Real Salt Lake, LA conceded five times in the final 10 minutes of the second half. Against Portland, LA was keyed in during the final ten minutes as they kept Portland off the scoresheet and earned the club’s fifth shutout this season.
“That was a big thing,” said defender Todd Dunivant when asked about the club’s ability to hold firm at the end of halves. “The difference tonight was that everyone was tuned in. 15 minutes, 10 minutes, five minutes; everyone was looking around and looking to the next guy keeping him going. I thought that all of us we’re good and concentrating.”
Defender A.J. DeLaGarza was quick to agree.
“I said during the last 10 minutes to keep tight and keep going so we don’t get stretched out,” said DeLaGarza.” It was crucial to play the last 45.”
