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The LA Galaxy have now won five straight matches after a late header from Diego Polenta was enough to top Houston 2-1 Friday night at Dignity Health Sports Park.
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LA started off strongly, but a resolute Dynamo defense prevented the Galaxy from finding the breakthrough. Romain Alessandrini was unlucky to go down early with a tweak and Ema Boateng took his place.
After a few near-misses from relatively close range, Ibra was dragged to the turf by former Galaxy legend A.J. DeLaGarza. Joe Willis guessed correctly, but Zlatan managed to power his attempt past the Houston goalkeeper to put LA ahead in the 31st minute.
An encouraging opening half was quickly forgotten as the Dynamo put immediate pressure on Guillermo Barros Schelotto’s squad. In the 53rd minute, Alberth Elis earned a penalty kick in somewhat controversial fashion. Despite replays appearing to show the foul outside the area, the call stood and Elis’ low drive just beat Bingham to level the score.
PATRON.@diegopolenta92's first @MLS goal is a timely one! pic.twitter.com/8X34sEbvVW
— LA Galaxy (@LAGalaxy) April 20, 2019
The evening was one of frustration for LA, who time and time again couldn’t apply the final touch when it matters. Just when it appeared the Galaxy would waste the opportunity to win five straight matches, it was center back Diego Polenta who pushed forward and beat A.J. to a cross at the far post for the game-winner.