MLS: Colorado 2 Columbus 0

The Colorado Rapids extended their unbeaten MLS run to four matches following a 2-0 win over Columbus Crew on Friday.

Gary Smith’s men closed the gap on the third-placed Seattle Sounders in the Western Conference to a point thanks to goals from Brian Mullan and Omar Cummings at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park.

There were few chances in an uninspiring first half before Mullan broke the game open with a blistering strike on 54 minutes.

The midfielder unleashed a shot from distance past a helpless William Hesmer to put Colorado ahead.

Columbus could have been on level terms soon after, but Colorado goalkeeper Matt Pickens denied Peruvian forward Andres Mendoza.

The game was all but over in the 79th minute when Cummings gave the hosts a 2-0 lead, slotting home after a pass from winger Sanna Nyassi.

Despite the loss, Columbus Crew remain two points clear in top spot in the Eastern Conference, although second-placed Philadelphia Union have two games in hand.