The Colorado Rapids have work to do in the second leg of the Western Conference Semifinal after a Giovani dos Santos goal gave LA Galaxy the edge at StubHub Center.
The Mexico international put his 55th minute header on frame, with Tim Howard wrong-footed, only for Axel Sjöberg to divert his attempted clearance into the far corner for the only goal of the game.
LA Galaxy’s goal came at the end of some strong play from the home side, during which the Rapids struggled to clear their lines. The Rapids responded well, though, with halftime substitute Jermaine Jones forcing a fine, full stretch save from Brian Rowe. This was Colorado’s best chance of the afternoon.
At the other end, Howard made a number of super saves to keep the Galaxy at bay, while the defense withstood pressure from the physical threat of Alan Gordon, and the speed of Emmanuel Boateng.
The Galaxy did have the ball in the back of the net in the first half, but referee Drew Fischer had already halted play for an infringement.
For the Rapids, their best spells came at the start of each half, only for the Galaxy to gradually work their way into the contest. As expected, the Rapids’ defense were the busier but, though disappointed with the loss, remain confident that they can turn this tie around.
The second leg is at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park next Sunday.
