Comeback attempt falls short as LAFC falls at San Diego FC

SAN DIEGO -- The recent MLS struggles for LAFC continued as they were defeated 3-2 by San Diego FC on Saturday night at Snapdragon Stadium. It was the first home win in San Diego's history.

After falling behind 3-0 through the first 40 minutes on goals from Christopher McVey, Onni Valakari and Alex Mighten, Los Angeles did their best to try and make things interesting. Artem Smoliakov and Cengiz Under both cashed in on goals late in the first half as they quickly cut the deficit down to 3-2.

It was a ridiculous strike from the 21-year-old Ukrianian, who drilled one into the back of the net from long range that snuck past San Diego goalkeeper Carlos Dos Santos. He will look to continue to build upon what was his first goal of the season.

As for Under, he took advantage of a nice breakaway opportunity and ended up with a wide open chip opportunity that kept the momentum turning in favor of Los Angeles.

Despite controlling play the rest of the way, LAFC could not find the equalizer. Dos Santos made two saves in the contest for San Diego, giving his best effort in what was quite a physical game.

In total, there were 20 fouls and seven yellow cards, with four of them going on San Diego. The one red card in the contest, however, was awarded to LAFC's Igor Jesus in the 53rd minute after he picked up his second yellow for fouling Anibal Godoy.

Los Angeles goalkeeper Hugo Lloris made three saves in the loss as San Diego totaled 15 shot attempts overall and 6 shots on goal.

LAFC is now 3-0-3 overall and has lost three of their last four in MLS play. They currently hold seventh place in the Western Conference with nine points and a -1 goal differential.

Up next for the squad is a return to CONCACAF Champion's Cup play as they battle Inter Miami on Wednesday in the first of two for the quarterfinal leg. Miami advanced to the quarterfinal round after taking down Cavalier by an aggregate score of 4-0 in the round of 16. 

Kickoff is scheduled for 8:30 p.m. PT.