Ching's goal lifts Dynamo
Associated Press
Naturally, the top two defensive teams in MLS fought to a scoreless tie for 90 minutes with their seasons on the line.
Brian Ching, a Kamehameha Schools alum from Hale'iwa, broke the deadlock with what he called one of the greatest shots of his career.
Ching scored six minutes into overtime and the host Houston Dynamo advanced to the Western Conference final for the third time in four years with a 1-0 win over the Seattle Sounders yesterday.
The teams both allowed 29 goals in the regular season, the lowest in MLS. They tied 0-0 in the first leg of their two-game semifinal on Oct. 29, setting up the winner-take-all match in Houston.
Houston defender Mike Chabala set up the winning shot with a cross from the left. The ball deflected off midfielder Brian Mullan and right to Ching, who shot to the top left corner.
"I just kind of turned and hit one of the best shots of my life," Ching said. "I was happy to see that go in."
Houston will next travel to play the Los Angeles Galaxy in a single match Friday night to determine who goes to the MLS Cup final
The Galaxy beat Chivas USA, 1-0, yesterday at Carson, Calif.
Landon Donovan made a 73rd-minute penalty kick for Los Angeles. The Galaxy advanced 3-2 on aggregate after a 2-2 tie last week.
Los Angeles' win ensured David Beckham will miss England's friendly against Brazil next week.
Beckham was picked for the England squad, but with the understanding the midfielder would not be available if the Galaxy advanced.
ELSEWHERE
Running: Josephat Kipkurui won the Athens Classic Marathon, leading a Kenyan sweep in the men's race.
Kipkurui crossed the finish line in 2 hours, 13 minutes, 44 seconds yesterday. Edwin Kipchom placed second in 2:14:18 and Mutuku Pius Muasa took third in 2:14:39.`
Akemi Ozaki of Japan won the women's race in 2:39:56. Degefa Bruktayit Eshetu of Ethiopia was second in 2:40:32.
Baseball: The Philadelphia Phillies have declined their $5.5 million 2010 option on third baseman Pedro Feliz. Feliz, who hit .266 with 12 home runs and 82 RBIs, will receive a $500,000 buyout.
