SOCCER: Marco Reus scores brace as Galaxy edge Real Salt Lake

Marco Reus delivered a standout performance, scoring twice including a late penalty kick, as the LA Galaxy secured a 2-1 victory over visiting Real Salt Lake on Sunday.

The win at Dignity Health Sports Park marked the Galaxy’s first in three league matches, improving their record to 3-4-3 (12 points). Real Salt Lake dropped to 5-3-1 (16 points) after suffering consecutive defeats.

Reus opened the scoring in the ninth minute with a well-placed free kick, giving the Galaxy an early advantage. He later sealed the result in the 85th minute from the penalty spot after Elijah Wynder was fouled in the box by Real Salt Lake’s Samuel Junqua. The finish marked Reus’ third and fourth goals of the season.

Real Salt Lake equalized in first-half stoppage time through an unfortunate own goal by Galaxy goalkeeper JT Marcinkowski. Zavier Gozo’s powerful strike from the right side hit the post as Marcinkowski attempted the save. The rebound deflected off the goalkeeper and into the net.

Despite the mishap, Marcinkowski produced a strong overall performance with nine saves, including two crucial stops in extra time. Rafael recorded four saves for Real Salt Lake.

The Galaxy showed improved defensive organization after conceding two goals in each of their previous two matches. They also dominated set pieces, finishing with a 7-0 advantage in corner kicks. LA recorded slightly more shots (16-15), while Real Salt Lake led in shots on target (9-7) and possession (54.6%).

Real Salt Lake, which had scored seven goals across two matches earlier in the month, has now been held scoreless in back-to-back losses following a 2-0 defeat to Inter Miami on Wednesday.

The match also featured a family storyline, as Galaxy midfielder Lucas Sanabria faced his brother, Real Salt Lake midfielder Juan Manuel Sanabria, who was acquired by RSL during the offseason.

-Field Level Media/Reuters