New England Revolution-Galaxy at Home Depot Center

The Eastern Conference (and MLS) leading Revolution (9-4-3) visit the Western Conference leading Galaxy (6-5-3) tonight seeking to extend their undefeated streak over L.A. to eight regular season games, a record that dates back to April 2004.

The Galaxy haven’t lost an Independence Day game since 2001, however, so it appears something has to give. (And it’s probably worth noting, too, that the Galaxy are 1-5-1 against Eastern Conference teams this season).

Coach Ruud Gullit has made two changes to the team that slumped to defeat against D.C. United last time out: Landon Donovan, apparently suffering the lingering effects of the flu, is on the bench so Alan Gordon gets a first start in almost a month, while Joe Franchino (making his first start since May 31) comes in for Ely Allen.

The line-up: goalkeeper Steve Cronin; defenders Chris Klein (making his 100th consecutive MLS start), Sean Franklin, Abel Xavier and Ante Jazic; midfielders David Beckham, Alvaro Pires, Franchino and Mike Randolph; forwards Edson Buddle and Gordon.

Carlos Ruiz is also on the bench.

The Revs start the same XI that beat Toronto last weekend: Matt Reis, Chris Albright, Michael Parkhurst, Mauricio Castro, Jay Heaps, Sainey Nyassi, MLS Player of the Week Steve Ralston, Shalrie Joseph, Jeff Larentowicz, Kheli Dube and Adam Cristman.

Taylor Twellman is on the bench, as expected.

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