Two goals in the first eight minutes of this match, and it looked like we had the makings of a high-scoring affair between LAFC and the Columbus Crew. But Adama Diomande slotted home the Club's second, and the goalfest never transpired.
After going down in quick succession, Columbus managed to find its feet towards the end of the first half. And even put LAFC under a bit of duress to start the second half. But the Black & Gold held strong, wrestling the match and possession back in their favor, and were probably unlucky not to have a third by the final whistle.
Here are the takeaways from LAFC's 2-0 win over the Columbus Crew:
The Return Of The General
I can't imagine what the emotions are when you miss out on a World Cup squad at the very last moment, but the response Laurent Ciman had against Columbus has to be the best way to cope.
The General returned to a hero's welcome and exerted his influence on both sides of the pitch. A now trademark Ciman rocket from the 30 yards out on a free kick in the fourth minute gave LAFC the lead. And then he spent the rest of the night with Gyasi Zardes in his back pocket. You couldn't have asked for more.
Taking Advantage Of The Backup
Jon Kempin had big gloves to fill, stepping in for No. 1 goalkeeper Zach Steffen, who didn't travel with the team due to an knee injury. Saturday wasn't one to remember for the backup keeper.
When Ciman stepped up to the free kick in the fourth minute, everyone in the stadium knew what was coming. Everyone but Kempin it seemed. His reaction to the free kick was all wrong. He was still shuffling his feet as the ball was struck and was subsequently late getting over to make the save. And even though his defense hung him out to dry on the second goal, getting beat near post is never a good look for a goalie.
Three Straight For Dio
Adama Diomande scored LAFC's second in the eighth minute. The goal was his fourth in his last three matches. After the match, the striker admitted he's still not playing to his full capabilities.
Makes you wonder what kind of terror he'll wreak on MLS when he's regained his legs and sharpness completely. Also, its now 29 goals in 31 matches under Bob Bradley for the striker.
Higuain Held In Check
I don't know about you but this doesn't look good at all for Federico Higuain.
The playmaker's pass map really speaks for itself. But after the match, Bradley praised the work of his midfield in keeping Higuain under wraps. In particular, the LAFC head coach singled Eduard Atuesta for his ability to keep tabs on the Argentine. Higuain did a lot of hard running to find space but never really got in the match. And when he did get on the ball, Atuesta was usually there to with the help of his midfielder partners to step into Higuain's passing lanes.
Nguyen Finding His Range
Lee Nguyen picked up his second assist in as many games on Saturday. After taking some time to come along, it looks like the midfielder has a grasp on what Bradley is asking of him now.
Nguyen drifted to both sides of the pitch, moving the ball quickly and connecting play with Latif Blessing and Diego Rossi on the flanks. In addition to the assist, he played three key passes, all into the Crew penalty area.
Bradley loves midfielders that can keep play moving and drive the ball forward. With Nguyen starting to come good, LAFC continue to build a formidable midfield with the capability of breaking down a defense with one pass.
Oh, and André Horta just arrived, too.
