Just like that, there's a new leader in the Western Conference.
The LA Galaxy took over the top spot in the West on Wednesday night with a 3-2 home win over the Colorado Rapids in which all their stars shined.
Designated Players Riqui Puig, Joseph Paintsil and Gabriel Pec each notched an assist, while Puig and Paintsil found the back of the net in a first-half blitz that stunned the Rapids.
"I thought we had a really good first half, maybe one of our better halves of the season," head coach Greg Vanney said post-match. "I thought we were super dynamic, getting behind even their presses. We were breaking and getting on the other side and you know, I think there was a couple more goals into it."
Sights set
LA's spot in the table isn't guaranteed at this point in the season, and certainly not with cross-town rivals LAFC just two points behind with two games in hand. But it's a sign of the club's ambition and growing confidence heading into the home stretch of the season.
"We have nine games left," noted Puig after another standout performance. "I think it's really important to be on top because I think if we play at home, we can be like a better team also with the fans. We can do a better job and I think that it's really important these last nine games, because we can be in the first position and I think it's really important."
"We all have one goal in mind," added defender Mauricio Cuevas. "We all want to make sure that every playoff game for us is here at home, in our atmosphere, which is that important for us."
With the Leagues Cup break just days away, Vanney and the Galaxy are eager to close out the first chapter of the season on a high note and set themselves up for success. The team is looking to get back into the habit of winning trophies, and they're not planning on taking their foot off the gas.
"I'm happy. I think the guys are fighting for everything. And yeah, we keep going," said Vanney. "We have one more this week... If we can get the job done on Saturday against [Portland Timbers], then we go into this break on top of the West and that's the goal for this week. Then it's eight games to find your rhythm, everything you need to see yourself into the best playoff position possible, and set yourself up form-wise to give yourself a shot."
