Player ratings as Five Stripes fall in return to MLS action

Atlanta United fell 2-0 on the road to LA Galaxy as Bundesliga legend Marco Reus grabbed a goal and an assist to propel his team to victory at Dignity Health Sports Park.

Leading up to the late-night showdown, both sides were looking forward to giving two new signings their debuts. The Galaxy were eager to introduce Borussia Dortmund legend Marco Reus to the mix while Atlanta were hopeful of an impact from Alexey Miranchuk.

Neither team were able to break the deadlock through 45 minutes played in Southern California. The visitors nearly went in front before Xande Silva’s strike went straight into John McCarthy’s arms while the hosts had a chance saved from close range after Brad Guzan’s kick-save.

However, the Galaxy were given a golden opportunity to go in front as the team was awarded a penalty kick after Atlanta’s Derrick Williams was called for a handball in his own penalty area. Joseph Paintsil stepped up to take the penalty and 39-year-old Brad Guzan guessed correctly to save the attempt and keep the score knotted at 0-0.

Later on in the match at the 60th minute mark, both Miranchuk and Reus were substituted into the match that was still at a deadlock. Roughly 15 minutes later, Reus logged his first goal contribution as a Galaxy player by claiming the assist for the opener. The 35-year-old teed up Riqui Puig as the former Barcelona midfielder curled one in from range to give the hosts a 1-0 lead.

Reus then would go on to add his first goal as a Galaxy player after LA carved open the Atlanta backline. Gabriel Pec sent in a low cross into Reus’ path, and the former Germany international’s effort was saved at first before he hammered home the rebound with ease to double the Galaxy’s advantage.

The win brought the Galaxy within four points of Inter Miami in the Supporters’ Shield race as they picked up their 15th win of the MLS season. On the other hand, Atlanta remained in ninth place in the Eastern Conference and 20th place overall after suffering their 12th defeat of the campaign.

GK: Brad Guzan – 8/10 – Came up with a good kick-save in the first half but his handling was unconvincing. Pulled off an impressive save to deny Paintsil from the spot.

RB: Brooks Lennon – 6/10 – Wasn’t the best of showings from Lennon. The USA international didn’t see much time on the ball going forward and left too much space in behind when he did push forward.

CB: Stian Gregersen – 5/10 – Struggled to contain…