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It's Episode 218, and it's a celebration!!! Thanks to Denis Bouanga, Carlos Vela, and our fearless leader, Steve Cherundolo, the Supporters Shield is coming back to the Banc! 

All LAFC had to do was head to a house of horrors, Providence Park, and win for the first time in 12 matches on turf and beat Portland for the first time in 7 matches. 

The first half was everything you've come to know and love from an LAFC/Timbers tilt: physical, frustrating, and plenty of quality crosses by Portland. A scoreless first half gave way to a much more frenetic second. Vintage Carlos Vela would make an appearance, scoring an incredible left-footed strike from the top of the box to put LAFC up one. A header from Asprilla off another Portland cross in the 81st minute would be the equalizer, and the Shield hopes looked like they might have to wait until Decision Day. Until...

It looked like LAFC would have a sure penalty kick, especially after Ismail Elfath took a day and a half with VAR. Alas, it was merely ruled a corner, and LAFC would need some stoppage time magic. Enter Denis Bouanga. #99 knifed his way into the box, fought through two defenders, and somehow still had enough on it to slot it past Ivacic for a 95th minute stoppage time, Supporters Shield winner! Bouanga's first goal in Black and Gold is a history maker!

Next week, LAFC closes out their 2022 regular season with a party at the Banc, which will also include a match against Walker Zimmerman and Nashville. The Shield is coming back home, and you can join the party with us on Episode 219!