The New York Red Bulls have claimed the advantage in their Eastern Conference semi-final tie against DC United by recording a 2-0 victory in the first leg.
Despite looking comfortable in possession, United's inability to create clear chances would be a common theme as Luis Robles kept out a speculative effort from David Arnaud following a cagey start at Red Bull Arena.
Peguy Luyindula's cross should have put New York ahead just after the half-hour mark, but Bradley Wright-Phillips was unable to keep his effort drifting over from inside the box.
However, the former Manchester City striker would make up for the miss before the break as he handed his side the lead by tapping in from close range after latching onto Thierry Henry's clever back heel.
New York took the momentum into the second half, and were close to doubling their advantage when Henry fired just over from the edge of the box.
DC goalkeeper Bill Hamid was then forced into action to deny the Red Bulls with an excellent double save from Lloyd Sam and Wright-Phillips.
United were unable to produce a response to New York's dominance in defence and attack, and the hosts managed to wrap up the win in the 74th minute.
Henry was once again the provider as he chipped an inch-perfect pass into the path of Luyindula, who kept his composure to slot past Hamid and hand the control to the Red Bulls at the halfway stage of the tie.
Callum Mulvihill
