MLS Review: Timbers too good for Galaxy, Atlanta snatch last-gasp draw

Portland Timbers comprehensively beat LA Galaxy in MLS, while Atlanta United equalised in the 91st minute against Sporting Kansas City.

Liam Ridgewell, Diego Valeri and Alvas Powell all scored as the Timbers saw off the Galaxy 3-1 in Portland on Sunday.

The Timbers made a dream start thanks to Ridgewell’s fifth-minute opener – a power header into an empty net – but LA hit back immediately via Emmanuel Boateng.

Valeri restored Portland’s lead just past the half-hour mark with a stunning long-range strike and Powell sealed the points when he lashed a shot across Galaxy goalkeeper Brian Rowe.

Goals, goals goals. We like goals. Full highlights from our 3-1 win over LA: https://t.co/g2yp22szc6 #RCTID #PORvLAG pic.twitter.com/u4zLIBP0jU

— Portland Timbers (@TimbersFC) August 6, 2017

The Timbers are fifth in the Western Conference – three points adrift of leaders Sporting KC – while the Galaxy are ninth and nine points outside of the play-off positions.

Sporting KC missed the opportunity to extend their lead atop the conference after being held to a 1-1 draw by visiting Atlanta.

Benny Feilhaber’s 59th-minute penalty had Sporting KC on track for back-to-back wins until Jacob Peterson’s netted a last-gasp equaliser as the hosts played out their fourth draw in five matches.

Just in time! @JacobPeterson37 puts one away to tie the match!#ATLUTD 1 – 1 @SportingKC pic.twitter.com/efQzpmSpIz

— Atlanta United FC (@ATLUTD) August 7, 2017

Meanwhile, David Villa scored a hat-trick to lead New York City to a come-from-behind 3-2 victory against neighbours New York Red Bulls.