Gareth Bale made his long awaited first start for LAFC in Friday’s 4-1 loss to Austin FC.
Bale played 60 minutes in the culling, making a limited impact in the outcome of the game.
He took two shots and completed 80 percent of his passes before being subbed off.
Austin were by far the more clinical team in game after jumping out to a 1-0 first half lead thanks to a free kick that sailed into the top corner of the net from midfielder Diego Fagundez.
They then extended the thanks to two quick goals within six minutes after the start of the second half. The next two were quickly scored by forward Maximilliano Urruti.
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A final goal from fellow forward Sebastian Driussi put the game solidly out of reach.
LAFC did not give up, at least striking back two minutes later in the 61st minute – just after Bale had gone off – thanks to a goal from striker Cristian Arango.
Bale and LAFC will have seven games left before the conclusion of the regular season look all but certain to make a deep playoff run.
LA has recorded 57 points with a record of 18-6-4.
Austin on the other hand will move within six points of LAFC by increasing their point total to 51. Their record also improved to 16-6-6.