Wayne Rooney's clever free-kick was enough for DC United to edge Columbus Crew and preserve their lead at the top of the MLS Eastern Conference.
The 27th-minute set-piece, Rooney's fifth goal of the season, was placed low through the defensive wall and into the bottom corner to settle the contest.
It was the former England captain's fourth set-piece goal during his time playing in Major League Soccer.
DC United, whose fortunes were transformed when Rooney, 33, joined them from Everton in June last year, look set to mount a title bid this season.
They have taken 17 points from their first nine matches, winning five, and currently hold a three-point advantage over Montreal Impact at the top of the division.
The 1-0 win on Wednesday night was their first win at Columbus since August 18, 2007, ending a winless stretch of 11 matches.
DC goalkeeper Bill Hamid kept his fifth clean sheet of the season, saving Justin Meram's close-range shot in the 54th minute to make sure of victory.
Rooney and his team make the journey to Minnesota United for their next fixture on Sunday.