Inside the Opposition: Romain Alessandrini and the new Galaxy attack

The new-look Galaxy has been slow out of the gates, but are not lacking any star power. While they lost stalwarts Robbie Keane, Steven Gerrard, and Mike Magee, they added USMNT midfielder Jermaine Jones, as well as former Marseille playmaker Romain Alessandrini, who just won MLS Player of the Month for March.

However, these new additions have not led to wins for the Galaxy so far in MLS. They are currently 10th in the Western Conference, with one win and three losses in four games. They have found it difficult to replace the offensive production of Robbie Keane, who had proven to be an ever-dangerous goal threat for the Galaxy.

Tactics 101

Los Angeles has lined up in a 4-4-2 under new head coach Curt Onalfo. The center of the midfield has been occupied by Jones, as well as new arrival João Pedro. Alessandrini has lined up on the wing, with Ema Boateng on his opposite side. Up front, Gio dos Santos has been paired with Jack McBean, a more traditional number 9 than the Mexico international.

The Galaxy defence remains fairly solid, with MLS All-Star Jelle van Damme starting in the centre, and Ashley Cole as the left fullback.

Injuries have hit the Galaxy early this season, with Gyasi Zardes, Robbie Rogers, and Sebastian Lletget all missing time. For the Impact to earn points in LA, they will have to be clinical in attack, while remaining tight defensively.

Ballou can shine

Ballou Tabla will likely be lined up with young fullback Nathan Smith, which could prove to be an important matchup for the Impact. Zardes has returned from injury recently, and will likely see time against the Impact on Friday, so Montreal will have to be aware of the American at all times.

Last week against Chicago, the goals conceded were both a result of poor marking in dangerous zones. Similar mistakes could cost the Impact valuable road points.