Michael Barrios brace fires Dallas to victory against Portland Timbers

A brace from Michael Barrios has guided Dallas to a comfortable 4-1 win over the Portland Timbers in their MLS clash.

The home side were the first to threaten as Mauro Diaz lifted a free kick into the box for the run of Victor Ulloa, but the midfielder put his effort past the post.

Dallas took the lead in the 12th minute when Kellyn Acosta released the run of Barrios and the forward slotted the ball past Adam Kwarasey.

Diaz created another opportunity for the hosts when he whipped a corner in from the right, but Atiba Harris put his header over the bar.

Dallas doubled their lead in the 22nd minute as Fabian Castillo saw his powerful shot blocked into the path of Barrios, who found the net with a volley into the top corner.

In the second half, the hosts put the game beyond doubt when Acosta weaved his way through a couple of challenges before rifling an effort past Kwarasey with his left foot.

Oscar Pareja's side netted their fourth goal of the evening when Ulloa was fouled in the box and a penalty was awarded. Diaz kept his composure from the spot to fire his strike into the net.

The Timbers earned a consolation goal when they were also awarded a penalty in stoppage time, and Fanendo Adi converted the spot kick.