Timbers go to 4-0 at home in MLS play

PORTLAND — Defender Mamadou Danso scored in the 72nd minute and the expansion Portland Timbers beat the Philadelphia Union 1-0 on Friday night to remain perfect at soldout Jeld-Wen Field.

Goalkeeper Troy Perkins made three saves for his second straight shutout in MLS play to help Portland improve to 4-0 at home and 4-3-1 overall.

Danso, known as “Futty,” scored on a header off a free kick from Jack Jewsbury, breaking open what had been a defensive match, with Philadelphia controlling the tempo with its methodical style.

The Union (4-2-1) allowed only their third goal of the season. They had four shutouts in their previous six games.

Philadelphia had a chance to score in the 86th minute, but Perkins stopped consecutive shots.

A shoving match broke out in the goalie box with the Timbers’ Eric Brunner and Philadelphia’s Sheanon Williams picking up yellow cards.

Philadelphia played its slow-down game for much of the match, keeping players behind the ball and frequently playing the ball back to goalkeeper Faryd Mondragon.

Still, the Timbers stayed aggressive, getting some decent shots on goal during the scoreless first half.

Portland missed a chance to score just before halftime when Brunner’s header off Jewsbury’s free kick sailed just over the net.