Ismael Tajouri and Maximiliano Moralez scored 12 minutes apart in the second half and New York City FC won its third straight game to open the MLS season with a 2-0 victory over Orlando City on Saturday.
Orlando goalkeeper Joe Bendik misplayed a back pass that went right to Tajouri inside the 18-yard box and the midfielder took a few touches to the penalty spot for an easy finish in the 62nd minute.
And after an Orlando giveaway to Saad Abdul-Salaam, Jesus Medina settled it for an oncoming Moralez to slide it home in the 74th minute.
NYCFC was without star striker David Villa because of a minor injury, as well as Anton Tinnerholm, whileRonald Matarrita limped off in the second half.
Orlando has its share of injury problems as well. Striker Stefano Pinho had a right ankle injury last Saturday, leaving on crutches, and playmaker Dom Dwyer will be out for at least two more weeks.
Sacha Kljestan made his debut after serving a two-game ban for the Lions, who arrived late because of the St. Patrick's Day parade traffic.