Ex-TFC forward Silva helps DC beat Red Bulls

WASHINGTON — Luis Silva’s goal in the 57th minute proved the difference and Eddie Johnson sealed the win in stoppage time for D.C. United’s 2-0 victory over the New York Red Bulls on Sunday.

United (14-8-4) extended its lead to four points over second-place Sporting Kansas City in the Eastern Conference.

Bill Hamid earned his seventh shutout of the season and recorded the first assist in his five-year MLS career.

Hamid sent a long ball across midfield and Fabian Espindola flicked a header forward to Silva. Silva then beat Red Bulls goalkeeper Luis Robles to the ball and punched it forward to set up an open-net finish.

Johnson looped the ball over Robles in the 91st minute after he got behind the defence on a ball sent in from near midfield from Perry Kitchen.

New York (7-8-10) remained two points behind in the race for the final Eastern Conference playoff spot.