The game in 100 words (or less): In a shocking turn of events that no one could have possibly ever predicted (hopefully your sarcasm detector is going off right about now), the LA Galaxy were without Jermaine Jones (knee) for Sunday’s clash with the New York Red Bulls, and lo and behold, they appeared to be lightyears ahead of the version of themselves (read: “Jones in tow”) that labored spiraled out of control to the tune of two wins from their first nine games this season. Beyond the three goals scored, two of which were bagged by an extremely motivated side very early on, LA were 1) quick(er) on the counter; 2) most importantly, competent in transitioning and shifting everyone side to side when defending. If you watched this team over the first two and a half months of the season, you know that’s nothing short of a miracle. Final score: 3-1, Galaxy. Here’s hoping Bruce Arena is watching and takes note with regarding to his roster for World Cup qualifiers this summer. Also, of particular note: Romain Alessandrini will win Newcomer of the Year.
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Three moments that mattered
8' — Alessandrini’s free kick untouched, hits paydirt — Jelle Van Damme was probably smart to not touch the ball, as his presence inside the six-yard box alone was enough to freeze Luis Robles in his tracks.
Romain's first. <3 https://t.co/32vlzDn53w #NYvLA pic.twitter.com/iUYPBfQmlH
— LA Galaxy (@LAGalaxy) May 14, 2017
9' — Alessandrini again, for 2-0 — Not so long after making it 1-0, Alessandrini to the penalty spot and hammered Giovani dos Santos’ cross past Robles to double LA’s lead. Alessandrini has six goals and four assists in his first 10 MLS games.
All about that pace. 👌 https://t.co/32vlzDn53w #NYvLA pic.twitter.com/0Rl2Yqvnfa
— LA Galaxy (@LAGalaxy) May 14, 2017
78' — Alessandrini wins a penalty, Dos Santos converts — When life is good, life is really good.
.@OficialGio makes it three! #NYvLA https://t.co/ig5htSU2nu
— Major League Soccer (@MLS) May 14, 2017
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Man of the match: Romain Alessandrini
Goalscorers: Alessandrini (8', 9'), Dos Santos (78' - PK), Royer (90+3')