The Black And Gold…. And The Best: LAFC Clinch Their First Ever Title

Brayan Altamirano
Captain Carlos Vela lifts the Supporters Shield for the very first time. It is the very first title for Los Angeles Football Club in only their second year in the league.
Brayan Altamirano
LAFC fans celebrate the victory against Houston Dynamo 3-1 as well as clinching their first ever Supporters Shield. The annual award is given to the best team in the MLS regular season.

Los Angeles Football Club grabbed a 3-1 win against The Houston Dynamo and clinched the Supporters’ Shield for the first time in club history. Forwards Carlos Vela, Diego Rossi and midfielder Eduard Atuesta scored for LAFC in a historic night for the club.

LAFC quickly took control of the possession of the ball like in almost every game. The Black and Gold started off the game intense and looked hungry for the win. LAFC took the lead from the penalty spot in the 20th minute after winger Brian Rodriguez was fouled inside the box. Forward and captain Carlos Vela made sure to convert from the spot and score his 30th goal of the season. This puts him only one goal behind Josef Martinez’s record for most goals in a single regular season in MLS history. Houston Dynamo would draw the game in the 28th minute thanks to an own goal from LAFC goalkeeper Tyler Miller.

Perfect Second Half

The second half was more under control for LAFC. Houston had difficulty reaching Miller’s goal with any dangerous chances. The Black and Gold continued to win the battle in the midfield, but also continued to struggle in the final third. It wouldn’t be until the 70th minute when Rossi would find an opening with a header and give his team the lead. LAFC continued to press looking for that goal that would seal things and give them a more comfortable lead. Eight minutes before full time, it was Atuesta who scored from a free kick and sealed the win for LAFC. Los Angeles are now officially the best team in the MLS and will have home advantage all throughout the playoffs. It is the first ever title for the club in the MLS, truly a historic night.

Diego Rossi Shares His Excitement

“Scoring for this club is always a great feeling, but scoring on a night like tonight is even more special,” said Rossi. ” Having the opportunity of being part of this team, and winning the first title for this club is such a special moment for me.” LAFC will visit Minnesota on Sunday before receiving Colorado in the last match of the regular season.