Justin Braun scored in the 13th minute to give Chivas USA a 1-0 victory over D.C. United on Sunday night.
Goalkeeper Zach Thornton made three saves for his fourth shutout as Chivas (6-11-4) broke a three-game winless streak. United (4-15-3) has lost six of seven.
Braun, who has a team-high eight goals after scoring three in 2009, said he feels more poised this season.
"I think the main thing is confidence," Braun said. "I feel a little more comfortable out there. My first year, I was a little more timid, attacking-wise. This year, I'm coming into my own and I'm working hard after practice on my touch."
Braun added that new coach Martin Vasquez's increased emphasis on offense helps him.
"Martin wants the team to go forward and take our chances," Braun said. "He wants us to go at people and take risks. I always like it when coaches give you the freedom to go forward and use your skill to take people on."
Braun scored after Ante Jazic chipped the ball from deep along the left flank. Braun cut in front of defender Barry Rice to redirect Jazic's pass for a looping 17-yard header.
United had its best chance to tie in the 69th minute. Jaime Moreno's 7-yard header off Branko Boskovic's corner kick had Thornton beaten - but defender Mariano Trujillo headed the ball away from the goal line.
"Really, I can't ask for much more from these guys right now," said D.C. United coach Ben Olsen, who replaced Curt Onalfo on Aug. 4. "There's been a sense of urgency to get this season back on track, and we're going our best."
Rice, a rookie out of Kentucky, made his first MLS start and played the first half. He sustained a cut above his right eye in the 45th minute.
