An early Davy Arnaud goal was enough to give DC United victory over their struggling MLS Eastern Conference rivals New York Red Bulls at RFK Stadium.

The winner came from Fabian Espindola's cross and Arnaud rose highest to head the ball beyond Luis Robles.

United nearly increased their advantage on 28 minutes when Eddie Johnson's close-range header was kept out by Robles.

The Red Bulls had chances to level before half time, but Thierry Henry couldn't direct his header on goal and Jonathan Steele's effort was skied over.

New York created plenty of opportunities throughout the game, but failed to hit the target enough to trouble Andrew Dykstra.

The visitors tried to get back on terms in the second half, but Eric Alexander's curling effort, which drifted past the post was as close as they got to scoring.

In the end, DC held on for victory and lie fifth in the Eastern Conference standings, while New York are still to register a win this season.