Deadspin: LAFC Rallies Against Rival Galaxy to Secure a Playoff Spot

Galaxy Take First-Half Lead

LAFC appeared to go ahead in the 28th minute when Heung-Min Son scored, but a video review confirmed the offside ruling. The Galaxy took the lead soon after play resumed.

Robert Taylor won the ball at midfield, advanced down the right and crossed for Paintsil to score in the 34th minute. Taylor started because Marco Reus was out of the lineup with an illness.

Paintsil Extends The Advantage

Paintsil scored again six minutes into the second half, finishing a rebound after Erik Thommy’s shot was saved by Hugo Lloris. The goal gave the Galaxy a 2-0 lead.

LAFC answered two minutes later. Denis Bouanga scored from a rebound after Armindo Sieb’s attempt, recording his team-leading 18th goal of the season.

Walta Completes The Comeback

LAFC made it 2-2 in the 62nd minute when Son’s deflected cross reached Leo Walta, who scored through goalkeeper JT Marcinkowski’s legs. Bouanga nearly put LAFC ahead in the 85th minute, but Marcinkowski stopped his shot near the edge of the six-yard box.

Marcinkowski made three saves, including a diving stop on Tyler Boyd just before the final whistle. Lloris also made three saves for LAFC, which is unbeaten in four matches under interim head coach Xavi Tamarit.

Playoff Positions Remain In Reach

LAFC (12-9-11, 47 points) remained sixth with two games left and was one point shy of fourth place, which would bring home-field advantage in Round One. The Galaxy (10-11-11, 41 points) stayed ninth, the Western Conference’s final playoff spot.