Goats gear up for SuperClasico

Published Jul. 18, 2012 2:20 p.m. ET

foxsports

History has sided with the LA Galaxy when it comes to the SuperClásico.

In fact, some don't consider the MLS' only true local derby much of a rivalry at all.

But a few former Galaxy members don't like how that story reads and now they are trying to flip the script.

Chivas head coach Robin Fraser and assistant coach Greg Vanney both spent a few years with their current team's arch nemesis. But they aren't the only ones.

Danny Califf and Alejandro Moreno spent time with the Galaxy. So did Ante Jazic, Paolo Cordozo and Juan Pablo Angel. And they recently welcomed Bobby Burling back to the Red-and-White in a trade with the Montreal Impact.

And then there is Pete Vagenas – the Galaxy icon who captained the 2005 team that won both the MLS Cup and U.S. Open Cup – who signed as a free agent in February.

If nothing else, the 2012 Rojiblancos know their enemy.

Maybe, a little too well.

"Whenever you get a chance to play against old teammates or ex-coaches, you are motivated even more," said Vagenas."So the cross over can add to it as well."

Plus sharing the same stadium with your enemy is a little like having to play nice with your ex. It's always a little bit awkward.

When Fraser first arrived with Chivas, he didn't totally understand what the big deal was. The Chivas hadn't even existed when he played for the Galaxy.

"It was just another game we needed to win," said Fraser of his initial approach. "Suddenly it wasn't just another game."

Sure, they need the points. They need to improve their standings, but that's not all Chivas is after come Saturday.

"The rivalry has been built up long enough that the players know this is very much about respect as well," said Fraser. "When you have two teams in one building, there is always going to be that battle for respect."

Sure, the Galaxy was there first, but that doesn't mean Chivas is fine with being treated like a step child in its own home.

It will take more than Saturday for the Chivas to improve their overall record against the Galaxy (4-16-6), but this weekend is the first step in showing the rest of the soccer community what this rivalry means to them.

They aren't asking for much.

Just a 'W' and a little respect.