Austin FC claimed their fourth consecutive win in the MLS and top spot in the Western Conference, defeating cross-state rivals Houston Dynamo 3-1 on Tuesday.

Second-half goals from Maximiliano Urruti and Alexander Ring handed the three points to Josh Wolff's side, who now momentarily sit atop the West on 40 points, a point ahead of Los Angeles FC who have a game in hand.

High-profile signing Hector Herrera was unable to inspire another second-half fightback for the Dynamo in his starting debut, after coming on as a substitute in their 2-2 draw against FC Dallas in Saturday's Texas derby.

With the score locked at 1-1, Urruti broke the tight game open in the 57th minute, finely curling the ball around Steve Clark first time after a quick regain of possession.

Ring secured the win with a lovely team move in the 70th minute, with the midfielder attacking the penalty area to meet Ethan Finlay's cross after Austin played their way out from a goal-kick.

Austin now have the chance to take the Copa Tejas if they defeat the Toros on Saturday, with competition for the trophy coinciding with their introduction to the MLS in 2021.