Andy Rose scored three minutes from time as Vancouver Whitecaps climbed two places in the Western Conference with a 3-2 win over Colorado Rapids in MLS.

The Whitecaps, who were second-bottom before kick-off, started well at Dick's Sporting Goods Park when Lass Bangoura played in Fredy Montero for the opener on 16 minutes.

Vancouver doubled their lead 10 minutes later when Montero capitalised on some poor defending and squared across the six-yard box for Lucas Venuto to score his first MLS goal.

The Rapids were without a win in their opening nine matches in 2019, but were given a lifeline when Kei Kamara converted from the penalty spot to reduce the arrears.

 

The MLS' bottom side was awarded another penalty in the second half under advice from the VAR, and Kamara stepped up to grab his second of the game and seventh of the season.

Kellyn Acosta forced Whitecaps goalkeeper Maxime Crepeau into a fine near-post save, before the Rapids were reduced to 10 men when Diego Rubio saw red for a coming-together with Doneil Henry.

Bangoura had a goal disallowed by the VAR inside the final 10 minutes and it looked as if Colorado would hold on to earn their third point of the season. That was until Rose ghosted in to gather and finish Bangoura's deflected shot on 87 minutes and break Rapids hearts.