Cajon grad Wicks starting for Galaxy

Cajon High School graduate Josh Wicks is now the starting goalkeeper for the Los Angeles Galaxy of the MLS.

Wicks has replaced regular goalkeeper Steve Cronin, who has fractured his hand and will be out for at least another month.

The Galaxy's second-string keeper, Charles Alamo, is also on the injury list.

Wicks made his first MLS start last Saturday against Real Salt Lake and helped the Galaxy to a 2-2 tie.

Here's what Wicks told MLSnet.com after the match:

"I felt solid. I could do a little better on the first goal. My voice is gone, so my communication must have been good. I felt comfortable. I guess we'll take the point because we have too. I think I can improve and be better than I was tonight."

The Galaxy was missing three starters due to international obligations, including Redlands East Valley High School product Landon Donovan.

Wicks will be in goal when the Galaxy travels to Arrowhead Stadium on Saturday to play the Kansas City Wizards.

Wicks was the United Soccer League goalkeeper of the year last season with the Portland Timbers, giving up an average of 0.60 goals per match.

A native of Landstuhl, Germany, Wicks moved with his family to San Bernardino at age 4. After an impressive career at Cajon, he played for four years with Cal State University Bakersfield.