2022 Supporters’ Shield Champs
Your 2022 LAFC have once again achieved another trophy! The Black and Gold conquered Portland to claim the 2022 Supporters’ Shield. Their second one in their four year history of existence. They would take advantage after the Philadelphia Union lost 4-0 against Charlotte FC. With a win securing them some another piece of silverware. It has been a bumpy ride this past month and a half. As LAFC saw a dip in their performances and began playing at an odd level. However, they were able to steer the ship well enough and now the MLS Playoffs can potentially end in Los Angeles. This shows just how good LAFC has been this season and also the tougness they posses. LAFC will now return home to the Banc where they will face off against Nashville on decision day.
LAFC Survuve in Portland
Having to head off to Providence Park is never an easy task. Especially when having to face off a desperate Portland Timbers side that needed a win at all costs. It was simple LAFC wins and their the 2022 Supporters’ Shield Champions and would also prevent Portland from reaching the playoffs. Both teams have built some animousity ever since LAFC entered the scene in 2018. With Portland needing a win it was expected for LAFC to sit back and take the pressure head on in the first minutes. It took 32 minutes for LAFC to get their first real dangerous opportuity in front of goal. The teams would head off tied 0-0 at the half.
Denis Bouanga Comes Up Clutch
It would take LAFC 5 minutes into the second half to open up the scoring. A pattented Carlos Vela goal made its return. As Cracklitos would do his signate cutback to his left foot and strike the ball with precision. Ivacic would get some fingertips on it but could not prevent it from going in. LAFC felt destined to win this match but their recent form reared its ugly head once again. As after the goal the club decided to take the foot off the gas pedal and tried to defend the result. With Portland needing a point at minimum every single player pushed up on their lines. Forcing LAFC to defend even much more until they got scored on. As in the 81st minute Portland tied the game. When it felt as if all hope was lost and a draw was inching Denis Bouanga stepped up for LAFC. Making a run down the left flank he would dribble through three defenders. Where he would find himself in the box, with the defenders fear of bringing him down for a penalty, he would lay off a finesse shot. That eventually trickled into the back of the net giving LAFC the lead in the 95th minute, scoring his first MLS goal! With this LAFC would win the Supporters’ Shield!