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Wondo’s two goals lead Earthquakes over FC Dallas

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By JOSE M. ROMERO

 There was no stopping Chris Wondolowski for two straight games, as FC Dallas saw Saturday night at Pizza Hut Park.

Wondolowski, the 2010 MLS Golden Boot winner with 18 goals, scored the season's first two for the San Jose Earthquakes in their 2-0 win over FC Dallas, a battle of two of last season's playoff teams. Wondolowski struck early, gathering in a Chris Leitch pass, controlling it with his chest and getting a favorable bounce in order to shoot the ball past FCD goalkeeper Kevin Hartman at the 4:00 mark of the match.

Wondolowski wasn't finished. His header past Hartman off a cross from Joey Gjertsen in the 23rd minute assured victory for the Earthquakes, who after a frustrating home opener loss in the rain and cold in northern California last week rebounded to win their road opener.

Leitch helped set up the second goal with his chip into the box that was not properly cleared.

Not that the defending MLS Western Conference champion rolled over. FC Dallas had its opportunities . 

David Ferreira, the 2010 MLS MVP, played well and gave teammates chances for goals several times. After a lackluster defensive effort in the first half, FC Dallas made it a tighter game in the second. Ferreira crossed to striker Milton Rodriguez in the 55th minute, but his touch lacked purpose and the shot was missed wide. 

Seconds later, center back George John has his shot blocked by San Jose keeper Jon Busch, who had several important saves.

FC Dallas was energized by the entrance of 18-year-old Fabian Castillo and Eric Avila and Ruben Luna. Castillo showed good speed and dribbling ability and Luna and Avila put pressure on the San Jose defenders. 

In the 61st minute, Ferreira again had Rodriguez, whose shot was blocked by Busch. Rodriguez missed a header over the goal in the 73rd minute, and Busch stopped a header by John six minutes later.

FC Dallas is winless in its first two matches, both at home. Wondolowski set an MLS record by scoring all 12 of the Earthquakes' last 12 regular-season goals, going back to last season.

 

Comments

  1. Totally. As soon as I saw it I knew it was GOTW. I thought Fabian Castillo put on a show too. I picked him up on my fantasy roster right after the I watched the highlights video.

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  2. I don’t think Wondo cares as much about proving last year was no fluke as he did about trying to make it up to his teammates and fans for missing the wide open header last week.

    This guy is just brimming over with confidence.

    Reply

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