A return to Banc of California Stadium. And a return to MLS play. LAFC hosts the Columbus Crew for the first time in Club history.
After comeback victories in San Jose and the U.S. Open Cup, here's the Toyota Keys to the Match for LAFC's meeting with the Crew:
Keep An Eye On Zardes In The Box
Sam Stejskal of MLSsoccer.com had a great article on the renaissance of Gyasi Zardes in Columbus. After a dismal couple of season with the Galaxy, it seems the change of scenery (and change of position) has rejuvenated the SoCal native. Zardes is currently tied for second in goals in MLS with 10 through 17 matches. That's more than his last two season combined.
So what's changed? Well for starters, Columbus has Zardes playing as an out-and-out striker. He's taking up dangerous positions on the pitch, and his Crew teammates are using him a focal point of the attack. Second, his movement into the box has improved considerably. With those two things in mind, LAFC's center backs will have to be wary of Zardes' first step. He's going to look to beat you to a spot in the box and finish from there. You can't bite on his first movement and let him gain that extra yard of space.
Test Kempin
The Crew will be without No. 1 goalkeeper Zack Steffen this Saturday. The US international didn't travel due to a knee injury, so backup Jon Kempin will be between the posts for Columbus.
A seasoned backup, Kempin has had three starts this season, but by no means has he been lights out. Five goals against in three starts and just five saves makes me think LAFC should look to shoot early and often. And look to get shots on frame. Even if Kempin makes the save, there could be follow up opportunities.
Maintain The Winning Ways
LAFC remain unbeaten at home, with two wins coming in the last two competitive matches at Banc of California Stadium. While both of those wins came in the Open Cup, it's time to get rolling again at home.
Three points against the Crew would be massive. It's time to use some of that same urgency LAFC displayed on the road early in the season at home. With consecutive home matches, its a chance for the Black & Gold to put some separation between themselves and the teams just below the playoff line.
