The San Jose Earthquakes have secured a historic start to the season with a 5-1 victory over Austin FC. The team became the first MLS team to win eight of their first nine games and is now atop the Western Conference table for the first time since 2012. Despite trailing for only the third time this season, the team responded with four goals in an 11-minute span to put away Austin. Coach Bruce Arena, who has guided three previous teams to the Supporters Shield in his second year with the club, praised the team's character and depth. The Quakes will aim to extend their club-record four-game road winning streak against St. Louis City SC on Saturday.