MLS LA Galaxy

Three Points: LA Galaxy Grab First Win of 2015

Published on March 7, 2015 under Major League Soccer (MLS)
LA Galaxy News Release


CARSON, Calif. - LA Galaxy Insider Adam Serrano provides his Three Points from the club's 2-0 victory over the Chicago Fire. Jose Villarreal and Robbie Keane scored as the Galaxy picked up their first win of 2015.

ISHIZAKI EARNS MAN OF THE MATCH PERFORMANCE AS THE GALAXY CONTROL THE GAME

The LA Galaxy made quick work of the Chicago Fire in large part due to a dominant performance of midfielder Stefan Ishizaki.

From the moment that the Galaxy raised their 2014 MLS Cup championship banner, Ishizaki had his way with Fire left back Joevin Jones. Time and time again, Galaxy midfielders Kenney Walker and Juninho stole possession from the Fire only to find Ishizaki streaking down the right flank with Jones in his dust. Given his success throughout the match, it was of little surprise that Ishizaki delivered the cross to Jose Villarreal on the eventual game-winner.

Up a goal late, the Galaxy added a second for good measure when a looping ball from Omar Gonzalez bounced off the head of second half substitute Baggio Husidic, and into the path of Robbie Keane. The league's reigning Most Valuable Player easily buried his shot from close range to give him his first goal of 2015.

THE INGLEWOOD KID RETURNS TO PROMINENCE

A strong preseason earned Jose Villarreal a starting place for the LA Galaxy in the club's first game of the season and the youngster rewarded Bruce Arena's faith by scoring the winner against the Chicago Fire.

Starting in the left midfield spot vacated by the retired Landon Donovan, Villarreal immediately showcased his skill and cunning making several timely runs. In the 65th minute, Villarreal delivered the winner when a Stefan Ishizaki cross was mishit by Jeff Larentowicz, before taking another deflection off Lovell Palmer, and falling perfectly for Villarreal who punched it in.

Just who would start along the left side of midfield was a major question for the Galaxy throughout the preseason, but, Villarreal's shining 69-minute performance against the Fire should earn him the starting spot for the time being.

A NEW MAN IN NET FOR THE GALAXY?

Brian Rowe earned the start in net for the LA Galaxy in their 2-0 win with the Chicago Fire, and the 26-year-old goalkeeper stated his case to take the reins from incumbent Jaime Penedo.

Penedo, the club's starter during the 2014, season, was left riding the pine on Friday due to a coach's decision. Against the Fire, Rowe was rarely tested as the Galaxy controlled the tempo, which resulted in the goalkeeper making just one save.

Given Rowe's confident showing against the Fire, Penedo will face an uphill climb as he looks to earn back his spot. Expect a heated battle in training this week between the two goalkeepers ahead of the Galaxy's trip to Portland to face the Timbers.

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