Dempsey double snaps Seattle's winless run
Reigning MLS Cup champion Seattle Sounders ended its three-game winless run by prevailing 3-1 at Colorado Rapids, while Real Salt Lake shipped six past LA Galaxy.
USA international Clint Dempsey was at the double, opening the scoring in the sixth minute and capping the victory five minutes from time after Will Bruin and Dominique Badji traded goals.
Meanwhile, lowly Real Salt Lake humbled host LA Galaxy 6-2 in a stunning display.
RSL led 2-1 at half-time and put the Galaxy to the sword thanks to Jefferson Savarino's quick-fire double, and Yura Movsisyan and Joao Plata.
There was also a brace for Roland Lamah, who inspired table-topping FC Dallas to a 4-2 win over DC United, and Columbus Crew downed host Minnesota United 1-0.
Josef Martinez scored twice as Atlanta United extended its winning streak in MLS, while Real Salt Lake netted six goals against LA Galaxy.
Atlanta fell behind to a Tommy Thompson goal in the second minute and the Earthquakes held that lead until the second half, despite having Kofi Sarkodie sent off for two yellow cards.
Carlos Carmona equalised in the 55th minute and Venezuela international Martinez put Atlanta ahead 10 minutes later when he headed past David Bingham.
The Earthquakes produced a rapid response, United States international Chris Wondolowski restoring parity a minute later.
However, Atlanta finished strongly courtesy of Anton Walkes' go-ahead goal and Martinez, who sealed the points in the 89th minute.
The Earthquakes finished the match with nine men after Victor Bernardez was shown a straight red card.
Atlanta is fourth in the Eastern Conference and seven points adrift of leader Chicago Fire, while the Earthquakes is fourth in the Western Conference.
