Attended in person last night the Cali Classico. In years past, the two clubs were higher up in the table and the match would have more energy on the field and in the stands.
A few quick observations:
Chances were few and far between as both clubs didn't seem to be fully in sync. MLS match report put it this way: "Those were the only shots on goal in an energetic but largely incoherent clash between the California Clasico rivals."
LA won the possession stat (52.6 vs. 47.4) and the corner stat (7 vs. 3) confirming my overall impression that LA was slightly more on the front foot. However, it seemed on many occasions LA was kicking the ball sideways before attempting to move forward that then resulted in a Galaxy midfielder being dispossessed of the ball or sending to nowhere in particular.
The defense looked good as they tended to be in the right places when SJ was moving in attack. Bingham got a huge save late in the game to preserve the win by getting a finger on the ball to push it into the crossbar. Alessandrini got to the loose ball and cleared it just before the Earthquakes could pounce on it.
Alessandrini is starting to look more fit and lively and scored the game winner at 82 minutes. Last season his ability to dribble at people to create chances for himself and others was the one bright spot in a dismal year. This year he has seemed out of sorts perhaps due to the injury he had early in the season. Hopefully, this indicates he is returning toward the form he had last year.
Boateng got the assist and continues to show he is the "super-sub" who brings speed and energy in the second half helping create chances.
All-in-all, not a dominating performance, not a good performance, but it was enough and they got the win and with the Galaxy struggles this season, the fans and club will take it.
Here is the highlight package from last night.
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