Los Angeles Galaxy climb to second with thrashing of DC United

Los Angeles Galaxy have climbed to second in the Western Conference thanks to a 4-1 victory over DC United in California.

It was an explosive start to the match for the hosts as Galaxy took full advantage of a couple of defensive mistakes to set up Alan Gordon, who slotted in the opener in the second minute.

The lead was doubled midway through the first half when Omar Gonzalez beat his marker to the ball inside the box to volley home from Landon Donovan's corner.

Galaxy's domination continued, with chances being created with apparent ease, and it was 3-0 moments before the half-time whistle when Baggio Husidic finished off an impressive team move by tapping in AJ Delagarza's cross.

A fairly uneventful start to the second half was quickly forgotten as the visitors pulled a goal back just prior to the hour mark, with Eddie Johnson converting from close range under pressure from two Los Angeles defenders.

Husidic and Robbie Rogers both missed good chances to score a fourth for the hosts, with Bill Hamid denying the latter as DC struggled to build on their goal.

However, there was still time for Galaxy to pile on further misery late on as Steve Birnbaum collided with Gonzalez to gift a penalty to the home side.

Donovan stepped up from 12 yards to complete an emphatic win and keep Galaxy's hopes of winning the Western Conference alive.