Sunday 8 March 2015 14:38, UK
LA Galaxy kicked of their 2015 MLS campaign with a comfortable 2-0 victory at home to Chicago Fire thanks to second-half goals from Jose Villarreal and captain Robbie Keane.
The entire MLS season had come close to being delayed by a labour stoppage before players struck a deal on a new collective bargaining agreement with the League on Wednesday.
However, with the 20th season of Major League Soccer finally underway in California on Friday night, Bruce Arena's defending champions were dominant but struggled to break down the Fire in the early stages at StubHub Center.
Former Wigan forward Shaun Maloney, making his debut for the visitors, did not have the start he would have hoped for, receiving a caution for a late tackle after just 22 minutes.
The home side piled on the pressure just before half-time but still could not break the deadlock, with Villareal firing over from the edge of the penalty area.
The midfielder was to fare better in the 65th minute with a low, angled finish to beat Sean Johnson and give LA Galaxy the lead.
Reigning MLS MVP Keane then went on to wrap up all three points in the 81st minute with a powerful strike to complete a routine win for the champions.
Watch live coverage of the MLS on Sky Sports 3 HD on Sunday night. Orlando City v New York City (9pm) and Sporting Kansas City v New York Red Bulls (11pm) are the featured games.
