Sporting Kansas City recorded its first goal and first victory in newly opened LIVESTRONG Sporting Park Friday evening. The game itself was not very pretty. There was little flow and possession between Sporting and San Jose flip flopped constantly.

The defining moment of Sporting KC’s 1-0 victory was, of course, the goal. A free kick taken by Graham Zusi, who in the last two contests has bagged two goals and two assists, was driven into the box and met by a streaking CJ Sapong. There was nothing the San Jose keeper could do to stop the redirect.

Sporting continued to create chances through the remainder of the first and all of the second half, but couldn’t find a way to put any more balls in the net. The offensive pressure dipped and led to San Jose setting up a shooting gallery of sorts. Sporting’s back line did well to prevent any solid looks, and Sporting walked away with its second victory in as many games.

The result is even more impressive given San Jose’s recent form. The visitors Friday rolled in on a hot streak, having won four of their previous five matches. Defense, along with Kei Kamara’s sideline runs, helped hold off the Earthquakes long enough to secure the three points.

Sporting KC now sits with 13 points in the Eastern Conference. Earning seven points out of a possible nine during the last three games, Sporting has put itself within one victory of the top half of the table.

The team will once again take to the road for a Wednesday match against conference opponent Philadelphia Union.