MLS: DC United 4 FC Dallas 1

DC United broke through for their first win of the 2012 MLS season with a 4-1 thumping of FC Dallas in Washington on Friday.

After scoring just one goal in their opening three matches, United found several avenues to goal against Dallas in a comprehensive display.

Former Dallas striker Maicon Santos kicked things off in the first half when his effort from outside the box dipped just under the goalpost and into the net.

The Brazilian’s replacement at Dallas, Blas Perez, equalised four minutes before half-time.

United defender Emiliano Dudar could not control an easy ball, laying it into the path of the offside Perez. The referee ruled play active since a United player had put the Panamanian through, and the 31-year-old finished easily.

The game remained level until the hour mark when DC unleashed three goals in 13 minutes.

First, Maicon Santos launched a gorgeous ball over the Dallas backline where Nick DeLeon controlled with his chest before rifling a narrow volley past Kevin Hartman.

Then the rookie turned provider, jutting infield from the byline and skipping a low cross toward Danny Cruz, who hooked the ball into the net.

Not to be outdone, reigning MLS MVP Dwayne De Rosario floated a delicate ball to the back post, where Maicon Santos completed his brace with a header.

To cap off a miserable night for Dallas, captain Daniel Hernandez picked up a second yellow for a rough challenge on De Rosario after 77 minutes.