MLS San Jose Earthquakes

Wondolowski, Lenhart Braces Help Earthquakes Rumble Past D.C.

Published on May 3, 2012 under Major League Soccer (MLS)
San Jose Earthquakes News Release


SANTA CLARA, Calif. - The San Jose Earthquakes' historic start continued in thrilling fashion on Wednesday as the home side recorded a decisive 5-3 win against D.C. United at Buck Shaw Stadium thanks to braces by Chris Wondolowski and Steven Lenhart.

The Earthquakes (7-1-1, 22 pts.) moved into sole possession of first place in the Western Conference with the win and upped their unbeaten streak to a league-best seven.

After falling behind 1-0 on an early goal from reigning Volkswagen MVP winner Dwayne De Rosario, the Earthquakes exploded for three goals to close out the half. The first came from Lenhart in the 19th minute, a powerful blast from the top of the area to equalize. Next up was a clinical finish from Wondolowski after nifty passes from Simon Dawkins and Tressor Moreno to set the two-time MLS leading scorer up on the doorstep. Justin Morrow capped the first-half onslaught with his first career goal, one timing his shot past goalkeeper Joe Willis at the near post.

Wondolowski and Lenhart each added goals in the second half to link their braces. The first was a whipped header from Wondolowski in the 69th minute thanks to a teasing ball sent just over the D.C. United defense by Steven Beitashour. Lenhart closed the Earthquakes' account in the 74th minute, chesting home a rebound after Marvin Chavez hit the crossbar with a long-range effort.

With his two goals on Wednesday, Wondolowski became the fastest player to 10 goals in MLS history in what was his ninth game of the season. The markers were Nos. 50 and 51 in his career. He also moved one ahead of New York Red Bulls forward Thierry Henry in the Budweiser Golden Boot standings.

Dating back to last season, Wondolowski has scored 18 goals in his last 18 games. Also on the bill in terms of Wondo-streaks is the striker's seven-straight matches with a goal or an assist, the longest active string in MLS.

In addition to Wondolowski's milestones, Wednesday's match also marked the first time San Jose scored five goals in a game since the club rejoined MLS in 2008 and set a new Buck Shaw Stadium record.

The Earthquakes hit the road this weekend for a date with Vancouver Whitecaps FC on Saturday, May 5 at BC Palace. Kickoff is 4 p.m. PT on Comcast SportsNet Bay Area, 1590 KLIV and 1370 KZSF.

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