MATCH REVIEW:

With Sunday’s victory over the New York Red Bulls, the Los Angeles Football Club improved its overall MLS record to 17-3-4 (55 Points). A home record of 10 wins with just 1 draw and 0 losses showcase the fortress The Banc of California Stadium has continued to be.

The Banc is stronghold where traveling teams come to be put through the wringer by MLS MVP front runner Carlos Vela and an all-star caliber LAFC squad. Bob Bradley’s unwavering total football is a splendor to witness with an attacking force unrivaled in MLS and a stalwart defense which has yielded a +40 goal differential. With this type of dominance on the field, there are no questions to why The Banc has been a sell out since it opened.

While some sports fans may think home-field advantage is nothing more than fiction, LAFC fans leave make-believe at the gate. On gameday, The Banc transforms into a congregation hall for the rowdiest, most boisterous group of fans in the league and this match was no different.

After the breakthrough goal in the 23rd minute by Jordan Harvey the stadium swelled in noise and amplified further by Latif Blessing’s running score two minutes later. Sheer happiness reverberated throughout The Banc as LAFC managed a comfortable 2 goal lead -- for a few minutes. Red Bulls would find some space in the LAFC defense to manage a goal past Tyler Miller. The equalizer would come minutes later after an unlucky ricochet off Miller’s back. Both goals coming just moments before halftime.

The 3252 did not waiver, it instead continued to fill the air with chants and energy attempting to motivate the black and gold as they entered the tunnel eager to hear Bradley’s instructions for the second half. The 15 minute break was a time both players and supporters dug deep to find what was needed to finish off the visitors from New York. As the ball rolled to start the second half LAFC faltered none — firing on all cylinders, they hunted the opposing 18 yard box aiming to break down a weary Red Bulls defensive unit.

An Eduard Atuesta induced penalty scored by the LAFC Captain Vela broke the tie, sending ravaging north enders into a passion-filled celebration. The last nail in the NYRB coffin would come from a set piece header scored by defensive unit Eddie Segura.

With beer showers coming down on The 3252, the last piece to the puzzle was found for the boys on the field. A huge confidence booster for the squad and for the at-capacity stadium goers. Nothing compares to the “hoo-hahs” of The 3252 and the entire stadium after witnessing their beloved club dismantle a worthy foe.

LAFC saw off the fast-break Red Bulls, finishing the match 4-2. New York Red Bulls: another victim engulfed by the monster that is the Banc.

-By 3252 Member Pablo Martinez

MATCH PREVIEW:

LAFC travels to Sandy, Utah this weekend looking to become the first team to clinch a berth in the Audi 2019 MLS Cup Playoffs. The Black & Gold will take on Real Salt Lake on Saturday, August 17 at Rio Tinto Stadium. The match is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. PT and will be broadcast on YouTube TV, UniMás 46, ESPN 710 AM, and 980 AM ‘La Mera Mera’. Check your local listings.

A win against RSL and a draw or loss by FC Dallas against Montreal Impact will secure a second consecutive trip to the postseason for the Black & Gold.

In Sandy Utah for the match?

- Limited parking available North Lot #3. $10 cash only, per stall. Parking Lot opens 3 hours before kick off so 5:00pm Utah Time (4:00pm Pacific). Tailgating is allowed.

- LAFC Supporters will be met and escorted to enter the stadium one hour before kick off.

- Rio Tinto Stadium follows the MLS Bag Policy, bags do not have to be clear but has to be smaller than 12"x12"x6". You are allowed to bring in factory sealed or completely empty water bottles to fill up at water fountains in stadium.

- All away supporters may be held in the section for a minimum 10 minutes after the final whistle, so be sure to use the restrooms before the 80th minute.

- Keep a close eye on your belongings — especially your scarves.

WATCH PARTIES AROUND THE CITY OF ANGELS:

Black Army: Indie Brewing Co. 2350 Sunrise St. Los Angeles, CA 90023

Cuervos: Barney's Beanery Burbank 205 N. 1st St. Burbank, CA 91502

District 9 Ultras: 11466 Chandler Blvd. North Hollywood, CA 91601.

Senor Pepe's Mexican Restaurant 8450 Granite Falls Dr. Bakersfield, CA 93312

Expo Originals, Tigers Supporter Group: Arts District Brewing Company 828 Traction Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90013

Los Lucky's: Lucky Baldwin's Pub 17 S. Raymond Ave. Pasadena, CA 91105

Empire Boys: Jersey’s 1197 Magnolia Ave. Corona, CA 92879

Krew: 33 Taps Silverlake, 3725 Sunset Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90026