USL Preview: LA Galaxy II vs. Arizona United SC

Los Dos welcome Arizona to start their Conference Championship defense

CARSON, Calif. – The LA Galaxy II and Arizona United SC will meet at StubHub Center on Saturday night as Los Dos begin the defense of their 2015 Western Conference Championship. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. PT.

LA Galaxy II news and notes

• Current record: 0-0-0, 0 points 
• The Galaxy II return a number of familiar faces for the new season under Curt Onalfo as they look to first make the playoffs for a third consecutive season, and then contend for a championship.
• Four players made the move from Los Dos to the Galaxy in the past year, with Daniel Steres now starting in MLS and Dave Romney, Clement Diop and Ariel Lassiter also in the squad.
• The Galaxy II have been performing strongly this preseason, with returning players such as Jack McBean and Bradford Jamieson IV showing positive signs in attack.
• Adding to the group this season is Colombian midfielder Bryam Rebellon, and former Orange County forward Denzel Slager, both of whom could have a strong impact this year.

Arizona United SC news and notes

• Current record: 0-0-0, 0 points
• Arizona brought in a number of changes this offseason as it looks for its first trip to the playoffs, most notably the appointment of two-time MLS Coach of the Year Frank Yallop as the club’s head coach.
• A handful of players return to the side, including goalkeeper Carl Woszczynski, who set a USL record with 130 saves last year. 2015 All-League selection Long Tan is also back after a standout season in front of goal, while Jose Cuevas will provide creativity in the attacking third.
• A big group of newcomers with USL experience have joined the side, including Sam Garza, Blair Gavin, Gibson Bardsley and Chris Cortez, all of whom will look to make a big impact for the club.

Team leaders last season

• Goals: LA – Ariel Lassiter, 11; Arizona – Long Tan, 14
• Assists: LA – Raul Mendiola, 8; Arizona – Jonathan Top, 3

Series notes

• Arizona proved a tough task for Los Dos a season ago as they took victory in all three meetings, all by a 2-1 final score.

Officials

• REF: Alex Chilowicz
• AR1: Eduardo Jeff
• AR2: Cameron Blanchard
• 4TH: Ramy Touchan

Game hashtag

• #LAvAZ