Romell Quioto threaded the needle twice and CF Montreal held on late to beat D.C. United 2-1 on Saturday at Audi Field.

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The Montreal team has thus overtaken the New York Red Bulls in third place in the Eastern Conference of Major League Soccer.

The visitors started the game with a bang, dominating the first half. Washington's defenders looked bewildered, then the hosts' only scoring chance, on a corner kick, was denied by James Pantemis.

The 25-year-old goalkeeper, who had held Toronto FC to a halt a week earlier, was once again solid in front of the Montreal net. He made four parries in the victory, only faltering on a header from captain Steve Birnbaum in the 56th.

Quioto was quick to announce his intentions. From the 42nd second of play, he took advantage of a blunder by defender Donovan Pines to clear off with the ball towards the net of Rafael Romo. The Honduran international skilfully hit the target with a low shot.

Wilfried Nancy's men nearly doubled their lead in the 17th minute, but Quioto was ruled offside before Alistair Johnston found the back of the net.

The 30-year-old striker recovered nicely in the 35th when Joel Waterman hit him with a clever hand. He lobbed the ball over Romo to provide a two-goal cushion for his side.

CF Montreal will enjoy a week-long break before visiting New York City FC next Saturday.