Starting XI is a biweekly series on SportingKC.com that highlights 11 of the biggest storylines and news updates from Sporting Kansas City, MLS and soccer around the globe. Click here to visit the Starting XI archive.
1. On the Offensive
Second-half strikes from Graham Zusi and Felipe Gutierrez propelled KC to a 3-2 win over the San Jose Earthquakes on Saturday, lifting the club into a tie for first place in the Western Conference. Ilie opened the scoring with his first career MLS goal in the 25th minute before Zusi and Gutierrez ignited wild celebrations at Children’s Mercy Park with a pair of long-range effort to seal all three points.