LAist Interview: Chivas USA Defender Mariano Trujillo

Chivas USA defender Mariano Trujillo is excited about the upcoming playoff series against the Galaxy. Photo by J. Miranda/Getty Images

Chivas USA and the Galaxy will close out the first weekend of MLS playoff action this afternoon when they take the field at the Home Depot Center for their first ever playoff battle. The folks at Elias Sports Bureau dug up an interesting tidbit on the match, noting that today's match will mark the first time since 1944 that two U.S. professional sports franchises sharing the same home venue will face off against each other in a playoff series.

Chivas USA players, coaches, staff and fans are excited about the series. The same is true for the Galaxy. Its been the main subject of discussion in American soccer circles all week long. Needless to say, expectations are high for the 2 PM match. Red-and-white defender Mariano Trujillo will be amongst several Chivas USA players getting their first taste of MLS action in this historic match.

Joining the squad in the off season from Mexican 1st division side Atlante FC, Trujillo graciously shared some thoughts with LAist on his first season, the playoffs and the upcoming series against the Galaxy.

Tell us about your performance and experience through your first MLS season.
It was good. I feel it went rather well for it being my first season. I played in the majority of the games and believe I adapted quickly. At the same time, I am happy with what the team has accomplished, but I am not satisfied. Likewise, on the personal side, I am happy with what I was able to accomplish and at ease because I know that my work speaks for itself. Now we are there [in the playoffs] and we want things to culminate with a championship.

There tends to be a lot of friction whenever Chivas USA faces either Houston or the Galaxy. Which other teams did you feel were equally difficult or played with the same intensity?
I believe that the top teams in the Western Conference -- Seattle, Houston, Galaxy -- were all difficult matches that caused us a great deal of work. They were all very tight matches. On the Eastern Conference, Columbus is a very, very difficult opponent. That's not to cast aside Chicago, but I believe Columbus is a rival that really made things difficult for us.

What was your most memorable moment on the season?
The start to our season. If I recall correctly, it was one of the best starts in league history. Being part of a squad that makes history in that manner is important. The first part of the season when the team racked up a lot of points is one of the most memorable moments we all have, but we are hoping that a better one will be winning the championship.

What are your thoughts on the Chivas USA - Galaxy playoff series?
It is going to be difficult. The Galaxy is a team that had an average start, steadily improved then finished off the season well. I think it will definitely be a clásico and they are always a different type of game, especially when you are playing an elimination round in the playoffs.

Would you have preferred a different opponent for the first round?
Well, taking into account what might be best for the team, it may have been better to play against Seattle or Houston so that we may have the home advantage. But I like these types of matches. Ones where passion against the Galaxy reaches its limits. Beyond advancing, I'd love to oust them and leave our rival on the sidelines.

Today's match is going to be a battle and likely a memorable one. Be there!