Read LA Soccer News Article - Making the Cup Cut
Read ESPN Article
Read USL Press Release - US Open Cup 1st Round
Read USL Press Release - LA Legends Qualify for Open Cup
Read "Legend -ary Performance Lifts LA Into the Cup" article on US Open Cup website
Goal #5: Reid Baker’s 2nd goal of the match. (Assist: Mario Guerrero)
In a franchise first, the LA Legends launch into the US Open Cup with a 5-0 shut-out over the San Fernando Valley Quakes. Prior to the match, the LA Legends were in a respectable third place in the southwest division of the Western conference. The win boosted the team into first with a record of 3-0-1. In 4 matches, the LA Legends tallied 11 goals for and no goals against.
To assure their qualification for the US Open Cup, the LA Legends needed to win by at least 2 goals. Bryan Fakkema opened the scoring in the 24th minute, followed by Kevin Gallaugher in the 27th minute. Both assists went to Ian Etherington.
Throughout the first half, the Legends dominated play, spending the majority of time in their opponents half. The LA Legends showered the goal with two shots for every one from their opponent. (Shots 11:5).
The Quakes returned from the half with a renewed intensity, moving the ball well and maintaining possession. However, the LA Legends combination of speed and strategic pressure allowed them to win 50/50 balls and pick-off through passes. The most vicious offensive threats came on the transition, immediately after the Legends gained possession, pushing the Quakes onto their heels.
The rain picked up 15 minutes into the second-half, and continued through the final whistle. Despite slippery conditions, the Legends would add 3 more goals to seal their fate. Coming off the bench, midfielder Andrew Villalobos scored in the 71st minute, assisted by David Barnett.
Reid Baker also subbed in and scored in the 85th and 89th minute, assisted by Etherington and Mario Guerrero.
