KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Clint Mathis scored in the 87th minute and backup goalkeeper Tim Howard recorded his third shutout in four appearances as the New York-New Jersey MetroStars beat the Kansas City Wizards 1-0 on Saturday.

It was the first home loss of the season for Kansas City, which leads Major League Soccer's Western Division at 11-3-5. The MetroStars (11-7-2) lead the East.

Mathis' goal was set up by a long pass from Tab Ramos, springing Billy Walsh along the left flank. Walsh sent a crossing pass to Mathis at the top of the penalty area, leaving Mathis with a clean shot on net.

It was the first goal allowed by Wizards goalkeeper Tony Meola at Arrowhead Stadium since Kansas City's season-opening 4-3 victory over Chicago on March 25.

Howard made seven saves. He has allowed just one goal while starting in place of the injured Mike Ammann.

The game was played in sweltering conditions, with the temperature nearing 100 degrees.