Califf lifts Chivas USA past Timbers, 1-0

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) Danny Califf scored his first goal of the season to give Chivas USA a 1-0 victory Saturday night that sent the Portland Timbers to their fifth consecutive defeat.

Califf scored on a set-piece header in the 68th minute when Chivas capitalized on Ben Zemanski's free kick. It brought Portland goalkeeper Troy Perkins off his line and Califf was able to head it in before Perkins could get to it.

The victory kept Chivas USA (6-8-5) within reach of the LA Galaxy for the fifth and final Western Conference playoff spot.

The Timbers (5-11-4) haven't scored a goal since July 14 and are on an MLS-record 697-minute scoreless stretch on the road. Their next game is Aug. 5 at home against FC Dallas, who beat them 5-0 a week ago.

Updated July 29, 2012