While there were plenty of individual performances to write home about during the opening week of the Major League Soccer season, a number of teams stepped up to deliver impressive results.
Whether it was the defending champion looking very much like one, an expansion team putting together a surprising offensive display, an early favorite getting contributions from its newcomers or two of last year's league doormats coming up big, MLS' opening week was full of strong team efforts.
So which teams stood out the most in Week 1? Let's have a look after the jump:
While the Timbers struggled, the other expansion team, Vancouver, showed the doubters that there's plenty of offense in its arsenal after all. Designated Player Eric Hassli scored twice, and Davide Chiumiento played team maestro in the first-ever MLS victory for the team in the league's first Canadian derby.
New York's victory at home over the Seattle Sounders wasn't a total surprise, but newcomers Teemu Tainio and Jan Gunnar Solli impressed, and Juan Agudelo scored a magnificent goal to lead the way for the Eastern Conference favorites.
D.C. United's win over Columbus not only marked Charlie Davies' return to the field, but it also showed that last year's cellar dweller is much improved in all facets.
Then there's the Philadelphia Union, which struggled so much on the road last season but came up with a stout, 1-0 win at Houston with new goalkeeper Faryd Mondragon playing a vital role.
Which team impressed you the most in Week 1? Cast your vote here:
How did you vote? Any team not included in the poll that stood out for you?
Share your thoughts below.
