VIDEO: USMNT hopeful Timothy Tillman gets LAFC off to perfect start en route to derby victory over LA Galaxy in MLS as midfielder heads home opener inside four minutes

Tillman broke the deadlock in the fourth minute of the match as he headed the ball into the net from Ilie Sanchez's curling corner after adjusting his body smartly. Julian Aude then netted an equaliser for the LA Galaxy in the 29th minute but six minutes later, Denis Bouanga converted a penalty to seal an important win for LAFC.

Speaking to reporters after the derby win, LAFC boss Steve Cherundolo said: "Obviously the [LA] Galaxy are quite a potent offense this year and are very dangerous with space in behind. Taking that away does take something away from their attack as well. Which also could possibly open them up for counter attacks, which is one of the weaker parts of their game."

Cherundolo also heaped praise on Tillman as he added: "His [Tillman's] characteristics and behaviors on the field have translated into a very good player for our league, so we're very happy with him, his progression, and again, the performance tonight. He's been through this season, maybe our most consistent performer."

Up until the derby triumph, LAFC had posted the worst start to a league campaign in the club's history as they had managed to clinch just seven points from their first six games. The Galaxy, on the other hand, headed into Saturday's clash on a six-game unbeaten streak, and will be shell-shocked after the final result.

The club will be next seen in action on April 13 as they take on Portland Timbers in a Major League Soccer clash. Tillman will hope to make an impact again as he aims to push for a regular place in the USMNT set-up, having been handed his international debut in January.