LA Galaxy crush Colorado in first round of MLS playoffs

Los Angeles Galaxy advance to Western Conference semifinals

The LA Galaxy clinched a spot in the Western Conference semifinals of the MLS playoffs with a 3-0 victory over the Colorado Rapids on Sunday night at Dignity Health Sports Park.

Javier "Chicharito" Hernandez put the Galaxy ahead in the 17th minute with a header off a cross from Efrain Alvarez.

Alvarez then made it 2-0 in the 30th minute with a goal of his own, assisted by Chicharito.

The Galaxy added to their lead in the 63rd minute when Raheem Edwards scored off an assist from Douglas Costa.

The Galaxy will face either FC Dallas or Minnesota United in the Western Conference semifinals.

Chicharito continues to lead the way for the Galaxy

Chicharito has been in excellent form for the Galaxy this season, scoring 18 goals in 33 regular season games.

He has also added 3 assists in the playoffs.

The Mexican striker is now the Galaxy's all-time leading scorer in the MLS playoffs, with 9 goals.

Alvarez impresses in his first MLS playoff game

Alvarez, who joined the Galaxy from Chivas Guadalajara in January, made his MLS playoff debut on Sunday night.

The 19-year-old midfielder scored a goal and added an assist in the Galaxy's victory.

Alvarez is expected to play a key role for the Galaxy in the playoffs.

Galaxy defense shines in playoff opener

The Galaxy defense was in excellent form against the Rapids.

The backline, led by Derrick Williams and Nick DeLeon, limited the Rapids to just 3 shots on target.

The Galaxy have now kept a clean sheet in their last 3 games.

Galaxy look to continue playoff run

The Galaxy will now turn their attention to the Western Conference semifinals.

They will face either FC Dallas or Minnesota United, who will play their first-leg match on Tuesday night.

The Galaxy are hoping to reach the MLS Cup for the first time since 2014.