Beckham nets winner to take LA Galaxy top

(GETTY IMAGES)

David Beckham scored the winning goal as the Los Angeles Galaxy went top of the Major League Soccer Western Conference with a 2-1 win away to Chivas USA.

Edson Buddle put the Galaxy in front with a 24th-minute strike before former England captain extended the lead after 39 minutes.

Beckham's contribution proved to be crucial as Alan Gordon (63) reduced the arrears before Galaxy substitute Eddie Lewis' 76th-minute sending-off.

Beckham, still to reach full fitness as he continues his comeback from a ruptured Achilles tendon, lasted 64 minutes, being replaced by Lewis who managed 12 minutes before receiving his marching orders