Kristoffer Velde scores twice in Timbers' 3-2 win over St. Louis City

Kristoffer Velde led the Portland Timbers to a 3-2 victory over St. Louis City on Wednesday night in St. Louis. Velde scored a goal in each half and assisted on another, boosting the Timbers' playoff hopes as they moved within two points of the final postseason spot in the Western Conference. The match featured a scoreless first half before Velde found the net in the 42nd minute. David Da Costa then added a goal for a 2-0 halftime lead. Velde completed his brace early in the second half, and although St. Louis scored twice, Portland held on for the win. The Timbers will host Houston Dynamo on Sunday, while St. Louis will face San Diego FC on Saturday.

• 3:34 AMYahoo Sports — Kristoffer Velde helps Timbers stay in playoff hunt with 3-2 victory over St. Louis City