Goals from Julian Gressel and Hector Villalba helped Atlanta to a 2-0 victory over Real Salt Lake.

The Eastern Conference leader has claimed three straight wins and sits four points clear of the Red Bulls, who beat Toronto FC 2-0.

Coming off a thrilling comeback win over San Jose Earthquakes, Atlanta struck eight minutes before half-time against Real Salt Lake, Gressel making it 1-0 with a tremendous volley.

Gressel helped set up Villalba's sealer with half an hour remaining, his throw-in put away by the attacker, although the strike hit the post and went in off Nick Rimando.

The Red Bulls remain within striking distance with four games left after beating Toronto.

It took until the final 20 minutes for the hosts to claim the win, Alejandro Romero's scrappy opener followed up by Derrick Etienne's winner.

In the Western Conference, Los Angeles FC closed to within a point of leader Sporting Kansas City.

Walker Zimmerman scored a brace to lead LAFC to a 2-0 win over the Earthquakes.

Montreal Impact is hanging on to a play-off spot after holding New York City to a 1-1 draw, Columbus Crew edged Colorado Rapids 2-1 and Minnesota United upset Portland Timbers 3-2.

Elsewhere, New England Revolution came from behind twice to draw 2-2 against Chicago Fire while Orlando City and Houston Dynamo drew 0-0.