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The LA Galaxy scored three times in the first half and scored another two in the second as the defending MLS champion beat the Portland Timbers 5-0 on Wednesday night.
Sebastian Lletget opened the scoring for Bruce Arena’s men in the 13th minute, after smashing home from a deflected Robbie Keane pass.
Keane then doubled LA’s lead five minutes later from the penalty spot before Robbie Rogers made it three just before the break.
In the 72nd minute, Juninho took advantage of a Portland mistake to make it 4-0.
Jose Villarreal completed the rout with a brilliant free-kick in the closing stages of the match.
In truth, the Galaxy outplayed Caleb Porter’s side for much of the night at the StubHub Center, and it didn’t take long for them to take the lead. Robbie Keane slid into the box and forced a pass to Sebastian Lletget. The former West Ham man didn’t hesitate to score the early breakthrough, his third goal since arriving to Los Angeles.
Moments later, Lletget continued his fine form by earning his team a penalty. Lletget dribbled his way through the left-hand side before being tripped inside the box. Robbie Keane stepped up to slot home calmly for the night’s second.
Robbie Rogers then struck a third after a precise through-ball from Robbie Keane. It was Rogers first goal in a Galaxy jersey.
The second half was more of the same. Even when Portland attacked, the Galaxy looked like the most threatening team.
With just over 15 minuets to go, Portland gifted LA their fourth when Robbie Keane stole the ball from a Timbers player to give way for Juninho, who slid the ball past Adam Kwarasey to make it four.
After Portland’s Liam Ridgewell was sent off, the hosts put finish to another great performance. Second half substitute Jose Villareal netted the fifth from a free-kick to complete another perfect night for the champions.
With the result, the Galaxy cut the Sounders’ lead at the top of the Western Conference to one point. On the other hand, the Timbers missed their chance to overtake LA in the table.