The Red Bull's star import Tim Cahill, who signed from English Premier League club Everton last month, made a losing debut at BBVA Compass Stadium in what was the Dynamo's fifth consecutive win.

The match was just two minutes old when hosts Houston opened the scoring.

The Red Bulls failed to clear a Brad Davis free kick, and Jermaine Taylor was on hand to bundle home after a goal-mouth scramble, netting the second fastest strike in Dynamo's MLS history.

The home side doubled their advantage in the 28th minute, with some indifferent defending from the visitors again to blame.

Mac Kandji sent a deep cross into the box and Calen Carr jumped higher than the New York defence, directing his header into the bottom corner of the net.

Houston continued to press and although they failed to force a third, the hosts comfortably secured all three points.

It was enough to see the Dynamo climb above New York and into top spot in the Eastern Conference, two points clear of their beaten visitors.