Episode 188 - Vela at the 6 Helps LAFC to 5!

Defenders of the Banc - The LAFC Podcast

For the first time since 2019, the U.S. Open Cup is Back at the Banc! LAFC hosts their former USL affiliate, Orange County Soccer Club, in a 3rd Round Open Cup clash, and your boys Filly and Scarf are here to break down all the fun of the 5-1 win.
Open Cup matches at the Banc are always a fun time. You can hang out in Figueroa Club, get to know USL clubs, and these matches are another great excuse to just be at the Banc. You also get to know your roster a little more deeply, as players who are a little further down the depth chart get a little more burn than usual. While we aren't sure our neighbors from behind the Orange Curtain will feel that way after this match, we sure did enjoy the start of the 2022 Open Cup.
John McCarthy, Danny Musovski, Sebastian Ibeagha, and Cal Jennings would all play vital roles in this match, and with Pancho Ginella, Doneil Henry, and Franco Escobar all getting starting nods, it's safe to say everyone in attendance got a good look at the depth of MLS's most talented roster. Chicho Arango continued his hot streak, netting a brace before halftime, and the Moose ran wild at the Banc with a brace of his own. Jennings, last year's leading scorer for the Las Vegas Lights, capped the scoring for the Black and Gold, but the biggest story of the match seemed to be a new role for Carlos Vela, albeit a temporary one: Vela at the 6. With Vela playing the Ilie Sanchez role, the ball moved around the pitch with accuracy and speed, and, in combination with Kellyn Acosta, LAFC's passing was crisp and clean.
Also, you may have noticed 188 was released before 187... we talk about that on the pod, too! We really appreciate all the love and support, especially in the bit of a rough spot the Defenders is in with the loss of our beloved mascot, family member, and best-dressed cat on the planet. We feel you, Defenders Nation! Enjoy 188!