Can the Union upset the once-beaten Galaxy?
The Union on Wednesday will have their one chance to face Major League Soccer royalty when the Los Angeles Galaxy visit Talen Energy Stadium for the first time since 2013.
The Union on Wednesday will have their one chance to face Major League Soccer royalty when the Los Angeles Galaxy visit Talen Energy Stadium for the first time since 2013.
The Galaxy (5-1-3) are again among the top teams in MLS. Coach Bruce Arena's team has won three of the last five MLS championships
"They are the gold standard of the league, the [NFL's New England] Patriots of MLS, and they have a way of winning," Union coach Jim Curtin said of the Galaxy.
Over the years the Galaxy have had some of the biggest names in MLS, such as Landon Donovan and David Beckham, and there is still plenty of star power.
Irish forward Robbie Keane, along with Mexican forward Giovani dos Santos and midfielder Steve Gerrard, a two-time World Cup captain for England, are the Galaxy's three designated players.
"The Galaxy and DC United are probably the two biggest [MLS] teams as far as history and lifting trophies," said Curtin, whose 4-3-1 team would move into first place in the Eastern Conference with a win.
Since the first MLS season in 1996, the Galaxy have won five league championships, and D.C. United has captured four.
The Union, who have been idle since a 1-1 draw with visiting San Jose on April 30, respect the Galaxy but understand that it's important not to get caught up in the hype.
"They are a great team, but this is just another game," Union defender Richie Marquez said. "It is an opportunity for us to get three points."
The Union, like many MLS teams, have struggled with the Galaxy. Now in their seventh season, the Union are 1-6-1 against the Galaxy. In the last three games, they are 0-3 and have been outscored, 12-3, following last year's 5-1 loss in Los Angeles.
The Galaxy are unbeaten in their last seven games following Sunday's 4-2 win at New England against the Revolution.
The Union are well rested and to keep sharp had an inter-squad game last week. After being idle since April 30, this will be the Union's first of six games in a 22-day span.
All six games are against quality teams but none with the mystique of the Galaxy.
@sjnard