Ghana forward Joseph Paintsil delivered yet another masterclass performance for LA Galaxy as his goal secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over San Jose Earthquakes on early Thursday.
The Black Stars attacker started and lasted for 83 minutes as his side recorded victory in the week 20 of the Major League Soccer.
The opening half ended goalless, with both sides struggling to find a breakthrough despite creating opportunities at either end of the pitch.
However, Paintsil scored the only goal of the encounter in the 79th minute, producing a decisive moment in an otherwise tightly contested match to hand LA Galaxy all three points.
The goal proved to be the difference between the two teams as San Jose Earthquakes attempted to respond in the closing stages.
The visitors pushed forward in search of an equaliser, but LA Galaxy defended their advantage and managed the final minutes effectively to protect their narrow lead.
For San Jose Earthquakes, the defeat will be disappointing after they managed to keep LA Galaxy at bay for much of the contest.
The 28-year-old Ghana international has made 17 appearances in the MLS this season, scoring five goals and delivering two assists in the process.
