The Los Angeles Galaxy claimed a dramatic 1-0 victory over the San Jose Earthquakes on Wednesday night at Carson, California, thanks to a late winner.
Joseph Paintsil struck in the 79th minute to seal the result, netting his fifth goal of the season in stunning short-handed fashion for the Galaxy.
The goal was made possible by assists from rookie defender Harbor Miller and veteran Marco Reus, both of whom played crucial creative roles in the move.
Miller registered his second assist of the season on the play, while Reus continued his impressive form by collecting his seventh of the campaign.
The Galaxy had been reduced to ten men from the 45th minute after midfielder Lucas Sanabria received two yellow cards in the final nine minutes of the first half.
Playing a man down for virtually the entire second half made the Galaxy’s victory all the more remarkable and highlighted the team’s resilience under pressure.
JT Marcinkowski was outstanding between the posts for Los Angeles, saving five shots to record his third clean sheet in 16 starts this season.
Hirving “Chucky” Lozano made his first home appearance for the Galaxy, having come off the bench on his debut the previous match rather than starting.
San Jose goalkeeper Angus Gunn kept the Earthquakes in the contest for long stretches, finishing the match with six saves in his fifth MLS start of the season.
The 30-year-old Gunn had conceded 12 goals across his first four outings, making Wednesday night’s display a welcome improvement despite the narrow defeat.
The result moves the Galaxy to a record of 6-8-7, while the Earthquakes drop to 10-7-3 after suffering a frustrating loss despite finishing the match with the numerical advantage.
Los Angeles demonstrated considerable character and tactical discipline to hold firm and secure all three points against a San Jose side with a superior league record heading into the fixture.
