MLS wrap: Timbers surprise Earthquakes, Chicago held

4 July 2012 08:00

Portland Timbers surprised Western Conference leaders the San Jose Earthquakes 2-1 in the MLS on Tuesday.

Timbers, eighth in the division, produced a night of firsts as both Danny Mwanga and Jack Jewsbury scored their first goals of the season.

The defeat was the first for the Earthquakes since May 27 and ended their three-game winning streak.

However, San Jose stay top of the Western Conference with 36 points from 18 games played so far this season.

The home side went ahead in the 29th minute after a cross from Franck Songo'o on the right found Congolese striker Mwanga.

Jewsbury increased the home side's lead in the 59th minute before Alan Gordon reduced the arrears 16 minutes from time.

In the Eastern Conference, Houston Dynamo failed to narrow the gap on Chicago Fire after a 0-0 draw.

Both sides had to settle for a share of the spoils, and the draw sees Chicago stay fourth, with Houston four points behind in fifth.

Guatemala midfielder Marco Pappa forced Houston goalkeeper Tally Hall into an early save, but it was the Dynamo who should have taken the lead on the stroke of half-time.

Will Bruin headed wide of the target from close range after a fine cross from Corey Ashe.

The hosts continued to press and almost took the lead from another error.

Brad Davis dispossessed the defender before his shot deflected just wide of Sean Johnson's post.

Chicago almost stole the three points late on when Brazilian Alex burst through the Houston defence, but his shot was well blocked by Jermaine Taylor.