Atlanta United looks ready for life in MLS. Minnesota United? Not so much.
WATCH: Wood scores late winner
The expansion sides went head to head for Minnesota's first MLS home game Sunday, but it was Atlanta that strolled to a 6-1 thrashing in the snow at TCF Bank Stadium.
Venezuela international Josef Martinez notched a hat trick, with Paraguayan playmaker Miguel Almiron recording two goals and an assist. MLS journeyman Jacob Peterson capped the scoring late.
Atlanta opened the scoring through Martinez inside three minutes and was up 3-0 by the 27th minute. Kevin Molino converted a penalty to give Minnesota hope before halftime, but an impressive Almiron volley ended any doubt shortly after the break.
It was the first win in MLS history for Atlanta, which dropped a 2-1 result to the New York Red Bulls in its opener last week. Minnesota, meanwhile, has kicked off life in the top flight with back-to-back blowout losses after a 5-1 setback against the Portland Timbers in Week 1.
Talk about a quick start.@ATLUTD take an early lead in Minnesota courtesy of @JosefMartinez17. #MINvATL https://t.co/sJoAX14cdO
— Major League Soccer (@MLS) March 12, 2017
Assist
— Atlanta United FC (@ATLUTD) March 12, 2017
Goal
A strong start from our #10 pic.twitter.com/ps3zagND0Q
HT: Three first half goals (including this one) have @ATLUTD in front 3-1 heading into the break. #MINvATL https://t.co/7ltj7yjazB
— Major League Soccer (@MLS) March 12, 2017
O. M. G. #UniteAndConquer pic.twitter.com/FIc2tqyHk3
— Atlanta United FC (@ATLUTD) March 12, 2017
3'
— Atlanta United FC (@ATLUTD) March 12, 2017
27'
75' @JosefMartinez17 is having a day pic.twitter.com/9gtZ0y7M5Y