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Columbus hands Timbers first loss as Minnesota's struggles in MLS continue

Columbus Crew SC handed the Portland Timbers their first loss of the season and moved top of the Eastern Conference with a 3-2 win on Saturday.

The Timbers had started the year with three straight wins but were undone by a late goal from substitute Niko Hansen, who was making his MLS debut.

Portland took the lead in the fourth minute when Sebastian Blanco played in Dairon Asprilla, who fired across the face of goal and just inside the far post.

But Columbus equalized seven minutes later when Justin Meram tapped home a rebound following a corner kick, and took the lead in the 19th minute through Ola Kamara's audacious long-range chip.