Earthquakes Rally from Two Down to Win 3-2 against LA Galaxy

Published on May 24, 2012 under Major League Soccer (MLS)
San Jose Earthquakes News Release

CARSON, Calif. - The San Jose Earthquakes rallied from a two-goal deficit to earn a 3-2 result against the defending MLS Cup Champion LA Galaxy Wednesday night at The Home Depot Center thanks to a stoppage-time winner from Alan Gordon.

With the win, the Earthquakes (8-2-3, 27 pts.) moved into the top spot in both the Western Conference and Supporters' Shield standings. The win was San Jose's first at The Home Depot Center since a 3-1 result on Oct. 15, 2005. The match also marked the first time the club has come from 2-0 back to win since May 4, 2002 against the Columbus Crew.

Three minutes after the Galaxy went ahead 2-0 in the 73rd, the Earthquakes began their climb with Steven Lenhart's fifth goal of the season. The Southern California native headed home a Marvin Chavez corner kick to cut the Galaxy's lead in half.

Six minutes later, Jason Hernandez earned a penalty after blasting a shot toward the target that David Beckham handled inside the area. Khari Stephenson slotted the ensuing penalty past Galaxy goalkeeper Brian Perk to pull San Jose even.

The comeback was complete four minutes into stoppage time. Once again, Hernandez was the originator, launching a long pass that bounced into the box before Gordon touched a header over Perk to seal San Jose's win.

Gordon's goal was his third in as many games in the 88th minute or later. The previous two came in 1-1 draws against Chivas USA on May 13 and the Columbus Crew on May 19. Collectively, San Jose has scored six goals in the 88th minute or later, five of which helped the club earn a win or tie.

The Earthquakes return to action on Sunday, May 27 against Sporting Kansas City at LIVESTRONG Sporting Park. Kickoff is 1:30 p.m. PT on NBC Sports, 1590 KLIV and 1370 KZSF.

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The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.

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