The Portland Timbers maintained their recent ascent up the Western Conference standings by defeating LAFC 2-1 at Providence Park on Sunday evening, with Dairon Asprilla scoring in the first half and George Fochive scoring the game-winner.

A rebound header from Asprilla gave the Timbers the lead early in the first half during a frantic first half. After an initial header from Sebastian Blanco rebounded against the crossbar at the back-end of a corner kick, the 29-year-old Colombian pounced on the deflection, putting the hosts ahead with his sixth goal of the season. The goal came after LAFC had a great opportunity on the opposite end, with Brian Rodriguez missing an open look into the stands.

Portland, though, couldn't hold on to the advantage, as a penalty kick was awarded mere minutes following Asprilla's score. While attempting to stop a free-kick from Jose Cifuentes, Blanco was penalized for a handball in his own area, allowing Arango to score the equalizer from the penalty spot for his fifth consecutive match with a goal. In the 64th minute, Cifuentes found himself wide open in front of goal after Arango squared a counterattack, but he pushed the inevitable shot wide.

Portland has won four of their past five games, snapping LAFC's three-game winning run. In the West, Gio Saverese's organization continues to appear to be a force to be reckoned with. Meanwhile, given the quality of opportunities they created, LAFC will be disappointed to leave with no points.

[Photography by ICONIC photographer Scott Boldt]