WASHINGTON – Jon Kempin stepped up when needed to help the LA Galaxy secure a scoreless draw with D.C. United on Saturday.
Kempin made six saves as the Galaxy ended their four-game road trip with 10 of a possible 12 points and a six-game unbeaten streak. With Brian Rowe (groin injury) and Clement Diop (international duty) unavailable, Kempin was given the call in his first appearance for the Galaxy as well as his first shutout of his MLS career.
After spending years as an understudy with Sporting Kansas City, Kempin believes he was uniquely qualified for the assignment.
"Whenever you're on the road, you always want to get a result, whether that's a win or a tie. Obviously, we came here to get the win, but we ended up with a 0-0 draw. It's always good when you don't give up a goal, so we'll take the result,” Kempin told reporters.
“To be a part of the LA Galaxy and to get a shutout is obviously great for me. I felt comfortable and I've been in this situation before. All of the guys and the coaching staff gave me confidence going into the game, so it actually felt like it was just a normal game."
Despite some initial jitters in his first MLS start since October 2015, Kempin quickly recovered, repeatedly leaving his line to help cut off attempts by the home side. His most crucial moment came in the 50th minute when he stopped a Taylor Kemp free kick only to deny Jared Jeffrey’s rebound moments later to keep the shutout.
Following the match, head coach Curt Onalfo was pleased with his goalkeeper’s showing.
"Great job. [Jon] Kempin stepped in and did what we ask of all of our players when they get called upon,” he said. “He logged a shutout--a valuable road point, so that was good."
Whether Kempin will remain in the starting lineup for the Galaxy’s clash with Houston Dynamo in two weeks remains to be seen, but the ‘keeper is ready for the challenge.
“It’s just goalkeeper competition,” Kempin said. "We have three great goalkeepers and I’m excited for the opportunity.”
Adam Serrano is the LA Galaxy Insider. Read his blog at www.LAGalaxy.com/Insider and contact him at LAGalaxyInsider@Gmail.com.
