SAN JOSE, Calif. — When Chris Wondolowski was announced for the starting lineup for the first time since March 30, there was a special feeling floating around Avaya Stadium.
Even San Jose head coach Matias Almeyda had a feeling Wondolowski could score four goals, and he was right.
A late injury to Danny Hoesen during practice on Friday opened up a spot for Wondolowski to start. The 36-year-old forward cemented his legacy in the MLS. On a rainy May afternoon in the Earthquakes 4-1 victory over Chicago Fire Wondolowski didn’t just break Landon Donovan’s all-time MLS record, he shattered it with a four-goal performance.
“I didn’t think four goals were coming, but driving I had a special feeling,” Wondolowski said. “It was amazing to be able to celebrate with the team. I’m just having fun right now, it’s fun and rejuvenating. I didn’t picture on a night like this.”
And as Wondolowski was subbed off in the final minutes of the game, a video of Donovan played on the Jumbotron where the retired United States soccer legend congratulated him on shattering the record.
“It’s surreal that he even knows my name. It’s crazy and boggles my mind,” Wondolowski said.
It may not have been 30 yard banger like Wondolowski imagined, but his record breaking goal came in the 48th minute after Fire goalkeeper David Ousted dropped the ball right within reach of Wondolowski to poke it in.
“I’ve probably crashed into every shot like that 1,000 times and out of 999 he catches it,” said Wondolowski. “This time I saw it come to the ground and was able to a toe on it. It was excitement and pure joy.”
In the 21st minute, Wondolowski’s record-tying goal came with more sentimental value as it came off of a perfect cross from longtime teammate from Shea Salinas that found Wondolowski open in the backdoor.
“Before the game I told him, ‘Let’s get out and score some goals,'” said Salinas. “It’s a perfect way to break the record. He’s always looking for the opportunity to score. Looking at him is usually a good way to get an assist.”
The veteran Wondolowski has been coming onto the pitch toward the end of matches, but with the possibility of a full 90 in front of him, Wondolowski made a case to be put in the starting XI more frequently. He went on to score two more goals in the game to complete his first ever four goal games.
“I am privileged to coach a player so close to a milestone and doing so the way he did it. The merit is his. We’re happy to celebrate him breaking his record,” Almeyda said. “He took advantage of playing today. He’s a great professional and I think its fair he was able to score. And it’s what I say to every player, know how to take advantage when we give you 90 minutes.”
The Earthquakes have now won four straight home games, outscoring opponents 12-2.
“We found a path that we have to keep going. Were very close to finding our system of play. Were seeing a huge grow with them, we have to keep going,” said Almeyda. “When I chose this place I was convince I can do it.”
