CARSON, Calif. (AP) — Steven Gerrard started and played the first 45 minutes of his American debut as the LA Galaxy beat Club América 2-1 in an International Champions Cup game at StubHub Center on Saturday night.
After a six-week layoff following the end of his 17th and final season at Liverpool, Gerrard played his traditional spot in the central midfield for the Galaxy in the friendly exhibition against the Mexican power.
Having only started practicing with the Galaxy on Tuesday, Gerrard seemed more comfortable when moving forward in an attacking role, but was caught flat-footed several times on defense.
Gerrard put an early shot on goal from 35 yards out that had to be punched away by goalie Hugo Gonzalez.
