Washington: England career goals leader Wayne Rooney was thrilled at his triumphant Major League Soccer debut on Saturday, assisting on a goal in DC United’s 3-1 victory over Vancouver.
The 32-year-old striker, star attraction in the opening match for United’s new 20,000-seat stadium, entered in the 58th minute.
Former Manchester United star Rooney helped set up Paul Arriola’s goals in the 69th and 80th minutes after Argentine midfielder Yamil Asad provided United the lead for good in the 27th minute.
“Excellent. It was a great victory,” Rooney said. “I thought we played some fantastic football. It was a big night for the club opening the stadium and it was important to get the win.”
Rooney, who played for hometown Everton last year, signed a 3 1/2-year deal worth $13 million with United on Tuesday.
“We were very sharp in the second half, especially when Wayne came on,” United coach Ben Olsen said. “Stalwart, high quality, made some great passes and got on the end of some. Good balls in the box. That’s what we expected from him.”
The $500 million Audi Field, already nicknamed “Wayne’s World,” features a Rooney-dominated front banner declaring “This is Our House.” Dozens of fans sported his number 9 United jersey and a cheer erupted when he took the field for warmups.
“It has been easy (adjusting). I’m enjoying it,” Rooney said. “It was a great atmosphere.”