Gauld makes history as White scores on return to Whitecaps lineup in 3-0 win over Galaxy

Ryan Gauld scored his 50th goal for the Vancouver Whitecaps in a 3-0 win over the LA Galaxy at BC Place on Wednesday, becoming the first player in the club’s Major League Soccer era to record 50 goals and 50 assists.

The Scottish attacking midfielder missed the start of the season after off-season knee surgery and has dealt with injuries. He scored in the 57th minute, fighting through two tackles before sending the ball into the corner of JT Marcinkowski’s net. Gauld said it took several matches to regain match fitness and his level on and off the ball.

Striker Brian White also returned to the starting lineup and opened the scoring in the ninth minute. Gauld took a quick throw to Thomas Muller, who flicked the ball to White. White headed it over a charging defender before volleying it in.

LA Galaxy forced Whitecaps goalkeeper Yohei Takaoka into several saves early, including on a Hirving Lozano attempt toward the top corner. Vancouver controlled attacking play in the second half, doubling its eight first-half shots by the 65th minute.

Muller left in the 27th minute after a collision with a Galaxy defender. Head coach Jesper Sorensen said the injury appeared to be a charley horse that worsened after the initial collision. Bruno Caicedo converted a penalty in the 89th minute to complete the scoring.

The Whitecaps lead the Western Conference with 11 regular-season matches remaining. They host Austin FC on Sunday, when Muller turns 37.