LAFC’s second-half surge enough for win

MLS-leading LAFC continued its hot season with a 5-0 victory over Charlotte FC at Banc of California Stadium on Saturday night.

The teams played to scoreless deadlock in the first half before Jesús Murillo converted on a header from the left side in the 49th minute.

Ten minutes later, José Cifuentes, on a right-footed shot, scored to make it 2-0.

Carlos Vela scored his ninth goal of the season in the 73rd minute off a through ball from Cifuentes. Cristian Arango scored his team-leading 13th goal three minutes later with a rightfooted shot. The LAFC’s scoring ended with an own goal from Anton Walkes of Charlotte in injury time.

Charlotte goalkeeper Kristjian Kahlina was credited with four saves.

LAFC improved to 18-4-3 (57 points) while Charlotte dropped to 9-15-2 (29 points).