LAFC boss Steve Cherundolo sounded off on MLS for making them play in fierce winter conditions against Real Salt Lake Saturday.
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RSL defeat LAFC 3-0Snowy conditions cause controversyWinter storm saw players freeze on pitchWHAT HAPPENED?
LAFC fell 3-0 to RSL Saturday evening, obtaining their first loss of the season, but it didn't come without issue or controversy.
The match was delayed multiple times, due to a mixture of wind, lightning, rain and dust… but by the time things properly kicked off at America First Field, the temperature had dropped severely and snow began falling on the pitch.
AdvertisementUSA Today Sports WHAT LAFC BOSS STEVE CHERUNDOLO SAID
“It was an absolute joke we had to play today, the game could have and should have been called (off). It was an absolute disgrace to play… I don't understand why on earth we'd count a game like that."
THE BIGGER PICTURE
By the time the final whistle blew, visibility on the field appeared to be almost non-existent – with MLS implementing an orange ball in the game so that all persons could view it. The snow-covered pitch was shoveled multiple times throughout the match, while players opted to wear face-coverings, gloves and hats throughout the match.
LAFC's Hugo Lloris was one of the most visibly shaken footballers on the pitch by the conditions, shivering on-camera whole seeing his facial hair turn into ice – frozen to his face.
Getty ImagesWHAT NEXT FOR LAFC?
The Black and Gold return home to Los Angeles next weekend in what will – hopefully – be more playable conditions. They'll look to get their campaign back on track and earn their second three points of the season.