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Glen Williams

Gareth Bale given standing ovation by thousands of LAFC fans as streets packed for victory parade

It's fair to say Gareth Bale is feeling the Los Angeles love after his heroics in the MLS Cup final.

The Wales captain came off the bench in the 97th minute to grab the all-important equaliser against Philadelphia Union, heading home in the 128th minute to send the game to penalties. The goal sparked wild scenes on the pitch, on the touchlines and in the stands and was all the more remarkable considering Bale hasn't played a minute of football in more than a month.

The Los Angeles-based side then dispatched their opponents 3-0 in the resulting penalty shootout, which saw them lift the MLS Cup.

READ MORE: Gareth Bale scores stunning 128th minute goal and wins MLS Cup final amid wild scenes

It has been a mixed start to life in California for the Welsh icon, but he proved once again, like anyone needed reminding, that he can produce moments of magic when it really matters. This time, it helped to deliver the trophy to LA.

It's not something LAFC fans are likely to forget in a hurry. The club have made the most of promoting their prized asset since he signed for them in the summer, even while he has endured regular spells on the touchline through injury.

And after he played such a huge role in LAFC's cup success, fans turned out in their droves to show their appreciation for the team on Sunday evening.

The streets of LA were packed out with Black and Gold fans as the team embarked on an open-top bus journey with the trophy. The bus made its way to a stage in front of thousands of adoring fans waiting to give their idols a hero's welcome.

Bale as announced on stage and the crowd erupted with cheers and applause as the 33-year-old applauded them back and stuck his thumbs up in a show of appreciation for them giving him such a warm reception.

Watch the video below

Of course, Bale is accustomed to coming up trumps in these big moments, having won 19 trophies in his silverware-laden career. The guy is prolific and head coach Steve Cherundolo knows it. All he is hoping is that Bale is not on fire when Wales face the US in the World Cup later this month.

“He's a guy with big qualities and a guy who makes big plays,” said head coach Cherundolo of Bale. “Let's hope he doesn't in the first game of the World Cup for all the Americans in the room.

“But it's Gareth being Gareth. He does it in training. He's done it this season. When he's feeling well and healthy, he makes a difference in games. That's why we bring him in in those moments. I wish he was 24.”

Attention will obviously switch quickly to the World Cup, with Wales' first game - against the US - kicking off in just over two weeks' time.

Post-match Bale gave an update on his fitness, which will be of particular interest to the Red Wall and manager Rob Page. "I'm feeling better and better as time goes on," Bale said.

"I've had a few setbacks, and had a slight knock a few weeks ago which kept me out for 10 days. It's just one of those things.

"It's been difficult mentally now leading into the World Cup. You see now there's so many players who are dropping out and now are missing the World Cup.

Get your brilliant 48-page Wales at the World Cup preview special

"It's been difficult mentally and I'm sure it has been for a lot of players. For sure it's been in the back of my mind to make sure I'm 100% fit. Today I felt good enough to come on the pitch and help the team and I'm happy to see them lifting that trophy.

He added: "I'm not 100% fit at the moment. I'm still coming back.

"I have a few little issues like most players do. But I was able to come on for the last 20-30 minutes and give as much as I can and I came up with a goal to help the team and that's what I'm here to do I guess."

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