MLS round-up: Portland Timbers beat New York Red Bulsl to close on play-off spot
Saturday 19 August 2017 09:38, UK
Portland Timbers picked up a vital win in the race for the MLS play-offs as they saw off the New York Red Bulls 2-0, despite finishing the match with 10 men.
Diego Valeri put Portland ahead in the 65th minute, turning home Diego Chara's cross.
There was a nervous finish at Providence Park as Larrys Mabiala was sent off in the final 10 minutes for a foul on Gonzalo Veron.
But Portland still had enough about them to grab a second deep into time added on as Darren Mattocks scored with virtually the last kick of the game.
The win puts Portland up to fifth in the Western Conference, although they have played more games than both San Jose and Vancouver who are within three points.