Toronto FC's new era is off to a promising start, and so is Jermain Defoe's time in MLS.

The English national teamer enjoyed a stellar debut this past Saturday, scoring a first-half brace that paved the way for Toronto's 2-1 road victory over the Seattle Sounders. The two-goal performance not only gave new-look TFC a win in the first official match since their impressive and busy offseason, but also earned Defoe Week 2's MLS Player of the Week award. (See how the North American Soccer Reporters voted here.)

Defoe beat out San Jose Earthquakes center back Victor Bernardez, who had a brace of his own, for the honors by an 8-6 margin. Bernardez scored two late goals, including one in the 95th minute, to help the Earthquakes avoid defeat in a 3-3 draw with Real Salt Lake.

Fellow Toronto FC newcomer Michael Bradley picked up three votes.

2014 MLS PLAYER OF THE WEEK

Week 2: Jermain Defoe (Toronto FC)

Week 1: Nick Rimando (Real Salt Lake)