Saturday evening was one to remember for OC fans as the club recorded a dominant performance and one of their biggest wins of the year. The match began just before sunset, and despite the glare Orange County looked well-organized in defense, withstanding some early counterattacks from Las Vegas and keeping possession.

After defending an early set-piece, Edwin Rivas was the first substitute for the Lights, coming off with an apparent head injury after 12 minutes.

OC then strung a few attacks together, coming close repeatedly, but the final touch towards goal eluded the hosts. Las Vegas also threatened: Rodolfo Zelaya put a shot past Aaron Cervantes, but the young goalkeeper was able to slow the ball and Joe Amico cleared the ball off the goal line. After the scare, the OC defense was resolute in closing down the Vegas offense, stifling any future opportunities for the visitors.

Orange County continued to dominate possession for the remainder of the half. Joe Amico was involved again, this time in the offense. He buried a shot past Thomas Olsen, but the fullback was flagged offside and both teams went into the break level.