Beckham's extra-time free-kick was poked home by Greg Berhalter before Landon Donovan sealed the semi-final series decider from the penalty spot.

"We've got a great bunch of guys that are working hard for each other and it's been tough, so we're happy."

Back spasms forced Beckham out of the match Sunday against archrival Chivas USA, but he continued to exert his influence. When five minutes of extra time were added, he protested so fiercely to an assistant referee that Coach Bruce Arena had to intercede.

This is a helluva game - or at least it has been since the lights came back on, with the Galaxy having the better of the attacking chances and restricting Houston to some long-range efforts.

First, in the 25th minute Stuart Holden cleared a Landon Donovan header off the line.

Two minutes later, Dynamo goalkeeper Pat Onstad made a great save to prevent a 30-yard David Beckham free kick from going into the far corner.