LA Galaxy tie for first place in West with win over Minnesota

CARSON, Calif. -- Gabriel Pac scored two goals, lifting the LA Galaxy to a 2-1 victory over Minnesota United at Dignity Health Sports Park on Sunday night.

The Galaxy are undefeated at home this season (7-1-3), including wins in seven of their last eight games. The result moves the Galaxy into a three-way tie for first place in the Western Conference with Real Salt Lake and LAFC.

"There is no ceiling for this team, I think,” defender Mauricio Cuevas said. “This team is unbelievable, from the coaching staff to every single player.

"This team can go very far as long as we just keep putting in the work day in and day out."

Until the 25th minute, Minnesota's compact 4-4-2 formation proved effective in halting the Galaxy's attack. But Riqui Puig, always assertive in the midfield, was able to assist Miki Yamane, who set up Gabriel Pec for an easy tap-in, giving the Galaxy a 1-0 lead. 

The Loons attempted an equalizer minutes later, but the video-assisted review disallowed Bongi Hlongwane's goal, calling it offside. 

The second half saw an altered Minnesota press with Teemu Pukki's return making an impact in the 73rd minute as Pukki scored the tying goal.

In the dying moments, Puig once again showcased his talents, setting up Mauricio Cuevas, who then assisted Pec for his second goal in the 90th minute. It was Pec's first two-goal game for the Galaxy. 

In 22 games played, Pec has scored 17 goal contributions (9 goals, 8 assists). Puig, who ranks first in multi-assist performances in the league this year, has now totaled 16 goal contributions (6 goals, 10 assists) in 19 games played this season.

The LA Galaxy, now fifth in the Supporters Shield race, travel to FC Dallas at Toyota Stadium for a 5:30 p.m. Saturday match.