When the Los Angeles Galaxy entered the month of June knowing they would be without a handful of players for international duty, there was some question how they were going to minimize the damage in the standings. They came through the first two weeks of the month unscathed, and now have a chance to close out June in style.
Los Angeles has won two games in a row and sits in first place in the Western Conference, three points clear of Houston and Chivas USA, with a game in hand. This weekend the Galaxy play host to the Columbus Crew with a chance to extend that lead at the top. In order to do that, they'll have to keep things rolling.
"We have to keep the momentum," said Galaxy head coach Ruud Gullit. "We have to continue to win our games, especially at home."
Los Angeles hasn't won more than two games in a row yet this season and hasn't had an unbeaten streak of longer than three games all year. In order to beat those marks, the Galaxy will need to control the flow of the game.
"It starts with holding the ball, possession," said Edson Buddle. "I think if we play comfortably, at home, on our field, we should do all right."
The Galaxy will have reinforcements. Landon Donovan has been released from the U.S. national team after helping them to an 8-0 first leg win against Barbados in World Cup qualifying.
"It's definitely great to have Landon back. I'm happy about that," said Buddle, who has seven goals in the Galaxy's last five games, included two hat tricks. "Landon is always a help on any team. I'm happy he's on my team."
Buddle himself should have extra motivation in this game as well. The Galaxy striker began his career in Columbus where he scored 42 goals. Having the opportunity to get one up on his former employer has him excited for this weekend.
"We're coming off a good win, and playing against my former team, there is always bragging rights," said Buddle. "It always feels good to beat someone that you played for."
The fact that the Galaxy are going to find the back of the net almost seems to be a foregone conclusion with the way their offense has been playing this season. How they cope on the defensive side of the ball against a Columbus team that has been hot and cold all season is another matter all together.
Columbus is coming off of a big 3-0 win against Kansas City on the road last week and is trying to climb back up the table and close the gap with New England. Both teams are confident and motivated heading into Saturday's match, which should provide an entertaining affair at The Home Depot Center.
"We have to take this weekend as we did last weekend, that this game is for first place. We want to stay on top of the standings," said defender Sean Franklin. "We know it's important that we don't slip. You always have to be ready for anything, so it's going to be an important game this weekend."
Greg Daurio is a contributor to MLSnet.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Soccer or its clubs.
