The 2012 MLS All-Star Game is in the books and D.C. United's Dwayne De Rosario and Chris Pontius had a big impact on a 3-2 MLS win. The duo connected on an equalizer that would pull MLS even at 2-2 and result in Pontius winning the game's MVP trophy.
It was a comeback victory for the MLS All-Stars as a couple Chelsea legends scored two straight to put the Blues ahead. Chelsea took the 2-1 lead on a Frank Lampard goal in the 58th minute. The MLS All-Star defense was mixed up, unsure if goalie Dan Kennedy would make a play on a Ramires cross. The confusion and failed clear left Lampard open on the back post and the Chelsea legend put it in an open goal.
But D.C. United representatives Pontius and De Rosario came through with a huge response for the MLS All-Stars. Trailing 2-1 in the 73rd minute, David Beckham sent a beautiful long ball over the top of the Chelsea defense that De Rosario controlled in the box. De Rosario made a charge to the goal but was at a poor angle and noticed Pontius making a made dash to connect with his teammate.
Pontius went on a 45-yard sprint and De Rosario hesitated to put a perfectly timed pass back to his teammate who buried a low liner to tie it at 2-2. It was a great team goal, highlighted by the D.C. United connection to cap it off. The goal would earn Pontius the MLS All-Star Game MVP. Video of the score:
MLS would then score the winner in stoppage time as Eddie Johnson put one in the back of the net in the 91st minute for a 3-2 victory. Johnson made a late run at the Blues defense but David Luiz had him well blocked. Undeterred, Johnson fired away and a deflection off the Blues' defender shot up in the air and past the charging Chelsea goalkeeper. It was the latest game winner in All-Star Game history and a great way for the MLS All-Stars to finish their comeback against the UEFA Champions League winners.
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