MLS Review: Rooney impresses on debut, Galaxy leave it late

Wayne Rooney made an impressive start to life in MLS, while the LA Galaxy left it late to claim a win on Saturday.

Rooney, who signed for DC United from Everton late last month, came off the bench to set up a goal in his team’s 3-1 win over the Vancouver Whitecaps.

DC were already ahead when Rooney came on, Yamil Asad having struck with a brilliant curling effort from 25 yards at Audi Field, where United were playing for the first time.

Rooney came on in the 58th minute and was involved in a fine team move that led to Paul Arriola doubling their lead.

Arriola struck again from 25 yards after receiving a pass from Rooney as DC claimed just their third win of the MLS season, despite Alphonso Davies’ late consolation goal for the Whitecaps.

Brace for @PaulArriola 
First MLS assist for @WayneRooney #UnitedAtHome | #DCvVAN pic.twitter.com/8goLmytaKD

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) July 15, 2018

Even with Zlatan Ibrahimovic rested, the Galaxy overcame the New England Revolution 3-2 at Gillette Stadium.

New England were reduced to 10 men after 23 minutes, Cristian Penilla shown a red card for kicking out.

But they led twice thanks to Diego Fagundez and Luis Caicedo and looked on track for victory when Ashley Cole was sent off for the Galaxy with five minutes remaining.

However, there was late drama as David Romney headed in a 92nd-minute corner from Romain Alessandrini, before Chris Pontius secured the Galaxy’s win by completing his brace.

FT: Two late, late goals secure all three points on the road for the @LAGalaxy as they come from behind to win 3-2 #LAvNE https://t.co/SxNGI1xnRq

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) July 15, 2018

Western Conference leaders Dallas recorded a 3-1 win over the Chicago Fire, New York City continued their fine form by beating Columbus Crew 2-0 and the Red Bulls rallied past Sporting Kansas City 3-2.

The Montreal Impact were 2-0 winners over the San Jose Earthquakes, Minnesota United edged Real Salt Lake 3-2, Orlando City beat Toronto 2-1 and the Colorado Rapids and Houston Dynamo played out a 0-0 draw.