Round two falls in New York’s favor in a battle that will surely go the distance.

A tight Eastern Conference race held the Red Bulls and the Houston Dynamo at the top of the heap. Last night, after suffering a humiliating defeat in Texas the week prior, New York came out the dominant side and took home a victory, three points and sole possession of first place. With the win, the Red Bulls also extend their undefeated streak at home.

The team’s makeshift backline included Markus Holgersson and Heath Pearce in the middle, with Roy Miller and Connor Lade on the flanks. Designated player Tim Cahill played the middle with Dax McCarty while Joel Lindpere regained his spot on the left and Sebastian Le Toux played a roaming right side winger. Henry and Cooper took their customary spots up top.

With Lade and Miller pushing the flanks, and the returning McCarty buffering the defense and midfield, New York looked the dominant side in a complete 180 from their performance at BBVA Compass last week. The result? A 2-0 victory.

It was another surprising week with a few lessons to be had. Here are five to mull over: