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Timbers top 'Caps to strengthen playoff chances

Oct 2, 2011 - 11:05 PM Vancouver, BC (Sports Network) - The Portland Timbers defeated Vancouver Whitecaps FC 1-0 on Sunday to move into a tie with Red Bull New York for the final wild card playoff spot.

Portland remains in sixth place in the Western Conference with 40 points on the season, but is level with New York in the wild card race after the Red Bulls were held to a 1-1 draw at Toronto on Saturday.

In the first match at BC Place in Vancouver, Portland sealed the win in the 25th minute after a stunning strike from Kenny Cooper.

Diego Chara started the move on the right flank, playing a long ball to find Cooper at the far corner of the box. The Portland striker controlled the ball with his chest and unleashed a shot that sailed into the upper corner, past a diving Joe Cannon.

Portland claims just its second road win of the season, but improves its overall record to 11-13-7. But the Red Bulls hold the edge in the playoff chase, as Portland's goal differential (-6) is inferior to New York's (+5).

It was the third straight loss for the Whitecaps (4-16-10), who continue to struggle in their debut season in MLS. They have the lowest point total in the league, taking just 22 points from 30 matches.

Vancouver returns to MLS action on Thursday when it hosts playoff-bound Real Salt Lake. Portland faces a short layoff from regular season play due to the FIFA international break. Its next outing is Oct. 14 when it hosts the Houston Dynamo.