MLS: Timbers chop down New England

The Portland Timbers extended their unbeaten run in the MLS to four games with a comfortable 3-0 win over New England on Friday.

The winners netted twice in the first 32 minutes at Jeld-Wen Field, before sealing the points in front of their home fans just after the hour mark.

Colombian midfielder Diego Chara put the hosts ahead after nine minutes, bringing down a cross before poking past the advancing Matt Reis and into the bottom corner.

Forward Kenny Cooper doubled their advantage just after the half-hour mark, converting from close range after a Mike Chabala cross.

They were assured of the win in the 66th minute when winger Darlington Nagbe placed a header into the bottom corner after some good work down the left by Ghanaian Khalif Alhassan.

The Timbers moved into the 10th and final playoff spot courtesy of the win, ahead of the weekend’s round of games.