CARSON, Calif., Sept. 25 (UPI) -- Dane Richards scored a goal and assisted on another Friday and Red Bull New York downed Los Angeles 2-0, gaining a share of first in the Eastern Conference.
New York took advantage of some shaky defense to make it 1-0 in the 36th minute. Joel Lindpere eluded defender Leonardo, gained control of the ball and fired a shot off the post, but Richards collected the rebound and found the net.
New York (13-8-5) added an insurance goal in the 60th minute, when Juan Pablo Angel scored on a penalty shot after Richards was pulled down in the area by Yohance Marshall.
David Beckham made his first start of the season for the Western Conference-leading Galaxy (15-6-5). Outside of a free kick that was saved by goalkeeper Bouna Coundoul, he had little impact in the game.
New York's victory gave them 44 points, knotting the team with Columbus atop the MLS East.
