The Portland Timbers beat the Club America U23 club 4-1 this afternoon even with many of their starters playing limited minutes or sitting out altogether. The Timbers really controlled this one from the opening kickoff, scoring around the two minute mark off a corner-header by defender Mamadou Danso.
- A very dominate performance by the Timbers, who seemed to be on attack all match, outshooting Club America 18-5. The defense played extremely well, only allowing Club America 2 shots on goal in the first half (one shot was a desperation kick from mid-field). In fact, the only goal given up was a tough break, coming off a broken play and an unlucky rebound.
- The size advantage for the Timbers was quite noticeable. They really had the edge on corners and jump balls. Club America looked frustrated fighting all the physical play, eventually resulting in a few minor squirmishes breaking out on the pitch.
- Mid-fielder Ryan Pore continued his stellar play, scoring and assisting on a goal. The last few games he's really turned it on, breaking through defenders, putting the ball in open spaces, and consistently just making plays when he gets touches.
- Takayuki Suzuki played pretty well tonight in the starting forward spot. He had the tie-breaking goal on a spectacular free kick that bounced inside off the far post and into the back of the net.
- George Corral lead Club America with three shots on goal from the back field. The other big star on club, Keeper Hugo Gonzalez, played well all things considering, making plenty of impressive saves under constant attack from the Timbers.
- Attendance was decent, I'm not sure if they announced the numbers, but a very rough estimation of 6,000-7,00 might be close. I guess it was only an exhibition though, but regardless, the Timbers unbeaten streak now stands at EIGHT!
Sunday, May 31
GAME PREVIEW - Portland Timbers VS Mexico Club America U-23
The Timbers open up their exhibition season today, playing the first of three games against international competition. Club America is one of the franchise teams of the Primera Division, Mexico's top soccer league (like the Lakers of the NBA). The Timber's will be playing their Reserve U-23 team - more or less a group of young, up and coming stars.
- Player to Watch: George Corral is the big name on the roster. The 18 year old defender spent time playing with the first team LAST season, a big statement for a such a young player.
- The Timbers announced their starting lineup for the game and it looks as though many of the starters will be sitting this one out. Still, with many Primera League fans living in Portland it should be a passionate and enthusiastic crowd.
- Heading down to the game - hoping for a big turnout.
- Player to Watch: George Corral is the big name on the roster. The 18 year old defender spent time playing with the first team LAST season, a big statement for a such a young player.
- The Timbers announced their starting lineup for the game and it looks as though many of the starters will be sitting this one out. Still, with many Primera League fans living in Portland it should be a passionate and enthusiastic crowd.
- Heading down to the game - hoping for a big turnout.
GAME NOTES - Timbers Unbeaten Streak Stands at Seven
The Timbers continued their great play tonight beating the Whitecaps 2-0 and remaining unbeaten in their last 7 games. The Timber's defense was stubborn as usual, not giving up a goal for the fourth time this season. But as good a job as the mid-fielders did creating plays for the forwards, it seemed the club squandered away many promising scoring opportunities, threatening often, but failing to convert. Regardless, the 9,000+ fans that made their way down to PGE park witnessed an exciting game and a big Timbers victory.
- Portland was the more aggressive club tonight. They earned two more shots on goal than Vancouver and it could have easily been more. The Timbers also were whistled for offsides 7 times, another sign of their attacking mentality, but perhaps also hinting at the need to work on some of their offensive sets.
- Keita seemed to struggle. Although he had two shots on goal, he turned the ball over a few times and wasn't able to threaten consistently.
- Our mid-fielders were solid, winning balls, making plays, and showing toughness and real grit. Pore scored his third goal of the season, he now leads the team in goals and shot attempts.
- The defense carried us again. The Whitecaps had seven corner kicks, but keeper Steve Cronin made six saves tonight. Stephen Keel's four years of MLS experience showed, getting his foot on a ton of balls, seemingly apart of every broken up play.
- Portland moves up to 3rd place in the league standings.
- Portland was the more aggressive club tonight. They earned two more shots on goal than Vancouver and it could have easily been more. The Timbers also were whistled for offsides 7 times, another sign of their attacking mentality, but perhaps also hinting at the need to work on some of their offensive sets.
- Keita seemed to struggle. Although he had two shots on goal, he turned the ball over a few times and wasn't able to threaten consistently.
- Our mid-fielders were solid, winning balls, making plays, and showing toughness and real grit. Pore scored his third goal of the season, he now leads the team in goals and shot attempts.
- The defense carried us again. The Whitecaps had seven corner kicks, but keeper Steve Cronin made six saves tonight. Stephen Keel's four years of MLS experience showed, getting his foot on a ton of balls, seemingly apart of every broken up play.
- Portland moves up to 3rd place in the league standings.
Saturday, May 30
Live Blogging: Timbers vs. Vancouver
Josten scores his first goal of the season:
Dropping Timber - Match Day Report
Vancouver (3-2-2, 11pts.)
at
Portland (3-1-3, 12pts.)
7pm PST
Saturday, May 30th
PGE Park: Tickets
Watch Online: USL Live
Radio: 95.5 FM
Live Blog: Sporting Madness
Dropping Timber - Game Preview
Portland's only loss this season was in the opener verses Vancouver back in April. A win against 2008's USL Champion could put Portland in third place and would give the Timbers a 7 game unbeaten streak.
An impressive road trip in Puerto Rico has put the Timbers one point ahead of Vancouver. The key to Saturday's game will be to keep Vancouver to one goal or less. Portland has not allowed any opponents to score more than one goal this season and in seven games played, our opponents have only scored a total of four goals. Portland's solid goal stopping has kept the pressure on the offense to make something happen. Mandjou Keita's play making ability was on full display this weekend with two goals in two games, hopefully he will keep it up for Saturday.
The weather looks great for Saturday and a loud, passionate crowd is certain. So get ready Portland, because this Saturday at 7PM it is game time.
Weather Update
Will the weather help guide Portland to Victory?
The Timbers faced 80 degree weather and high humidity in Puerto Rico last weekend for two successful matches. Vancouver faced around 55 degree weather in last weeks back to back wins against the Montreal Impact. Match time weather at PGE Park will be around 80 acording to the Weather Underground. Two teams will do battle and only one may win.
Thursday, May 28
The English are Coming!
In case you missed it, the Timbers announced yesterday they'll be playing host to Burnley FC of the English Premier League on Saturday July 25th, PGE Park, 7pm. Premier is regarded as one of the top soccer leagues in the world, so it'll be a great chance for the Timbers to compete against a top-flight club. It is the third international exhibition game the Timbers will play this summer, starting this Sunday against Mexico's Club America, then July versus FC Bayern Munich.
For Burnley FC, the game will be a pre-season exhibition as they gear up for their innaguaral season in the English Premier League. I wonder if that means they'll be resting a lot of their starting players? Regardles, should be an exciting match against those British hooligans!
Burnley had a Cinderella season last year, playing their way into the top division of the EPL and then losing in the semi-finals of the Carling Cup. Here's fun video showing their heartbreak -
For Burnley FC, the game will be a pre-season exhibition as they gear up for their innaguaral season in the English Premier League. I wonder if that means they'll be resting a lot of their starting players? Regardles, should be an exciting match against those British hooligans!
Burnley had a Cinderella season last year, playing their way into the top division of the EPL and then losing in the semi-finals of the Carling Cup. Here's fun video showing their heartbreak -
Wednesday, May 27
War against the Timbers Army?
On Canzano's Oregonlive page last week, the bald-one posted a letter sent to the Oregonian from a local soccer fan who is greatly concerned by the boisterous behavior and general unruly conduct of Portland's cheering section behind the goal, dubbed the Timbers Army. Laurie (last name redacted) seems to think all the commotion the Timbers Army creates will drive away families and fans, ultimately leading to the failure of the Portland Timbers in the MLS. Read it from her:
"MLS and fans will NOT fill your new stadium with a cheering section behind the net dropping F-BOMBS in their chants all night long. You have some of the foulest fans in all of sports. This is not England and you should not tolerate Portland Timbers Hooligans. On three occasions I had to move my boys further away from your "fans". The fact is most of these "fans" has never played the game, coached or refereed in their lives. These "fans" are just a bunch of angry white guys tanked up on liquor. Truthfully it was really pathetic. Do they really believe that chanting obscenities from 75 meters away impacts what happens on the pitch? Fat guys leading cheers laced with foul language is rather silly isn't it?"
My favorite part is when she calls all soccer fans in England a bunch of hooligans. I also found it humorous that her article degenerates into personal attacks and insults. If she's calling names and making irresponsible generalizations isn't she basically lowering herself to their level? I mean the Timber's army is made up of only white angry drunks? Don't be a bigot and leave out other races....what about angry Asians? (although i've never sat in section 107)
However, I tend to agree with owner Meritt Paulson, who actually responded to the letter on Canzano's blog, in saying that the Timbers Army shows the type of unbridled passion and unguarded enthusiasm that makes soccer so special. Maybe a bit more guarding of enthusiasm isn't the worst idea (some regulation of f-bombs probably necessary and designating family-friendly sections), but if they were to disband the Timbers Army I think you'd kill that unique energy and atmosphere that a soccer game can offer. I can understand this soccer mom's concerns, but more than likely her three boys probably know all the words chanted that afternoon anyway. Are a few naughty words enough to deprive your child from an exciting experience? Bottomline, you can't raise your kids in a glass jar, the real world doesn't always come with a rating system or some form of censorship - don't attend the games or deal with it. Either way, I think the Timbers will be fine and that's my two cents.
Read the article at Oregonlive: (http://www.oregonlive.com/sports/oregonian/john_canzano/index.ssf/2009/05/open_letter_to_the_timbers_arm.html)
Bad fans?
"MLS and fans will NOT fill your new stadium with a cheering section behind the net dropping F-BOMBS in their chants all night long. You have some of the foulest fans in all of sports. This is not England and you should not tolerate Portland Timbers Hooligans. On three occasions I had to move my boys further away from your "fans". The fact is most of these "fans" has never played the game, coached or refereed in their lives. These "fans" are just a bunch of angry white guys tanked up on liquor. Truthfully it was really pathetic. Do they really believe that chanting obscenities from 75 meters away impacts what happens on the pitch? Fat guys leading cheers laced with foul language is rather silly isn't it?"
My favorite part is when she calls all soccer fans in England a bunch of hooligans. I also found it humorous that her article degenerates into personal attacks and insults. If she's calling names and making irresponsible generalizations isn't she basically lowering herself to their level? I mean the Timber's army is made up of only white angry drunks? Don't be a bigot and leave out other races....what about angry Asians? (although i've never sat in section 107)
However, I tend to agree with owner Meritt Paulson, who actually responded to the letter on Canzano's blog, in saying that the Timbers Army shows the type of unbridled passion and unguarded enthusiasm that makes soccer so special. Maybe a bit more guarding of enthusiasm isn't the worst idea (some regulation of f-bombs probably necessary and designating family-friendly sections), but if they were to disband the Timbers Army I think you'd kill that unique energy and atmosphere that a soccer game can offer. I can understand this soccer mom's concerns, but more than likely her three boys probably know all the words chanted that afternoon anyway. Are a few naughty words enough to deprive your child from an exciting experience? Bottomline, you can't raise your kids in a glass jar, the real world doesn't always come with a rating system or some form of censorship - don't attend the games or deal with it. Either way, I think the Timbers will be fine and that's my two cents.
Read the article at Oregonlive: (http://www.oregonlive.com/sports/oregonian/john_canzano/index.ssf/2009/05/open_letter_to_the_timbers_arm.html)
Bad fans?
Mandjou Keita named USL Player of the Week
After scoring two goals in helping to lead the Timbers to success in their weekend series with the PR Islanders, Keita has been awarded with USL First Division Player of the Week honors. On the road at Puerto Rico, Keita scored the equalizing goal, keeping the Timbers unbeaten streak alive, and just two nights later, he kept the scoring up - knocking in the first goal of the game in the Timbers 2-1 victory.
The Timbers signed the 29 year-old African native with hopes he would provide some big-time offense, but after failing to find the back of the net during Portland's first five games, Keita finally erupted against the Islanders. Although the 2007 Malaysian League leading goal scorer has some heavy-hype resting on his shoulders, the lanky 6'1 striker has provided plenty of exciting ball play and has shown a strong ability to finish in the box. Was this weekend only the tip of the iceberg?
Mid-fielder Brian Farber was also honored for his stellar play this past weekend being named to the USL First Division Team of the Week. The Timber's point leader assisted on both goals in Portland home win, increasing his point total to 6 for the season.
Sunday, May 24
TIMBERS IN 4TH PLACE - FIRST WIN EVER IN PUERTO RICO
TIMBERS IN 4TH PLACE - FIRST WIN EVER IN PUERTO RICO
The Timbers scored two goals in the first half, and it was enough to beat Puerto Rico 2-1 on the road. The Islanders move into 6th place, while the Timbers take fourth. Portland took four points from Puerto Rico over the holiday weekend.
Portland's record is now 3-1-3.
The Timbers scored two goals in the first half, and it was enough to beat Puerto Rico 2-1 on the road. The Islanders move into 6th place, while the Timbers take fourth. Portland took four points from Puerto Rico over the holiday weekend.
Portland's record is now 3-1-3.
Portland at Puerto Rico, 5/24
The Timbers and Islanders are still tied in the standings. Who will break it?
Live updates:
-Portland Lineup vs. PR: GK Cronin, D Dansou, D Knowles, D Nishimura, D Hayes, M Farber, M McManus, M Claesson, M Savage, M Pore, F Keita
-Mandjou Keita scores the first goal at the 25th minute
-PR ties
-Danso scores, Timbers take the lead
-Timbers 2 - Islanders 1, end of 1st half
Friday, May 22
Timbers get a point in Puerto Rico
A POINT ON THE ROAD
The Timbers match ended in a 1-1 tie with Puerto Rico. Mandjou Keita scored his first goal of the season for Portland at the 59th minute, tying the game. Puerto Rico scored seven minutes earlier. Portland still has not won in Puerto Rico (0-3-2 all time), but has the chance to change that on Sunday.
The Timbers match ended in a 1-1 tie with Puerto Rico. Mandjou Keita scored his first goal of the season for Portland at the 59th minute, tying the game. Puerto Rico scored seven minutes earlier. Portland still has not won in Puerto Rico (0-3-2 all time), but has the chance to change that on Sunday.
Timbers Game Thread
GAME DAY - LIVE UPDATES
It's game day and the Timbers are in Puerto Rico.
Game Notes:
-Defender Takuro Nishimura is back with the team
-Portland's leading scorers are Ryan Pore and Brian Farber, who have two goals apiece
-Pore leads the team with 5 points
-Nick Addlery leads Puerto Rico with two goals.
-Portland is #2 in the USL for average attendance, Puerto Rico is #4
Live updates below:
Due to technical difficulties there were no live updates for this game. Please check in for the next game.
It's game day and the Timbers are in Puerto Rico.
Game Notes:
-Defender Takuro Nishimura is back with the team
-Portland's leading scorers are Ryan Pore and Brian Farber, who have two goals apiece
-Pore leads the team with 5 points
-Nick Addlery leads Puerto Rico with two goals.
-Portland is #2 in the USL for average attendance, Puerto Rico is #4
Live updates below:
Due to technical difficulties there were no live updates for this game. Please check in for the next game.
Thursday, May 21
Friday's Game Preview
BREAK THE STANDINGS TIE
Portland (2-1-2 8pts.)
at
Puerto Rico (2-1-2 8pts.)
5 pm PST
Friday, May 22nd
Video Webcast: USL Live
Online Radio: Listen
Watch at a pub: Viewing Spots
Portland (2-1-2 8pts.)
at
Puerto Rico (2-1-2 8pts.)
5 pm PST
Friday, May 22nd
Video Webcast: USL Live
Online Radio: Listen
Watch at a pub: Viewing Spots
DROPPING TIMBER - GAME PREVIEW
A lot is on the line for the Portland Timbers Friday game against the Puerto Rico Islanders. For one thing, a win would put Portland in a tie for third place with the defending champions, Vancouver. The Islanders' record matches Portland's, and the goal differential is essentially the same. Portland's defense looks to be the best in the league with only two goals scored against us; unfortunately our goal scoring lacks with only 4 goals in five games.
The next two games on the road in far out Puerto Rico could have major implications in the standings for Portland. Two victories and Portland could be at the top of the standings, but two losses could push Portland to the bottom.
Some video from May 16 2008 in Puerto Rico
Wednesday, May 20
Player Focus: Farber is named to USL's Team of the Week
Brian Farber's excellent play and the goal in the 2-1 victory over Rochester gives him Team of the Week honors. Scott Vallow, the keeper for Rochester earned Player of the Week with his 11 save performance against Vancouver on Sunday.
Read More at USLsoccer.com
USL First Division Team of the Week | ||||
| Pos | Name | Team | ||
| G | Scott Vallow | Rochester | ||
| D | Nelson Akwari | Charleston | ||
| D | Cedric Joqueviel | Montreal | ||
| D | Troy Roberts | Cleveland | ||
| D | Devon McKenney | Carolina | ||
| M | Luke Kreamalmeyer | Carolina | ||
| M | Joshua Boateng | Cleveland | ||
| M | Stephen deRoux | Montreal | ||
| M | Brian Farber | Portland | ||
| M | Johnny Menyongar | Rochester | ||
| F | Roberto Brown | Montreal | ||
Read More at USLsoccer.com
Monday, May 18
Current USL Standings
| Rank | Teams | Pts | GP | W | L | T | GF | GA |
| 1 | Carolina RailHawks | 13 | 7 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 7 | 5 |
| 2 | Rochester Rhinos | 13 | 7 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 10 | 6 |
| 3 | Vancouver Whitecaps | 11 | 7 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 8 | 7 |
| 4 | Charleston Battery | 10 | 6 | 2 | 0 | 4 | 4 | 2 |
| 5 | Portland Timbers | 8 | 5 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 4 | 2 |
| 6 | Puerto Rico Islanders | 8 | 5 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 6 | 5 |
| 7 | Austin Aztex | 6 | 5 | 1 | 1 | 3 | 6 | 7 |
| 8 | Miami FC Blues | 6 | 5 | 2 | 3 | 0 | 6 | 7 |
| 9 | Montreal Impact | 5 | 6 | 1 | 3 | 2 | 8 | 7 |
| 10 | Cleveland City Stars | 4 | 5 | 1 | 3 | 1 | 2 | 9 |
| 11 | Minnesota Thunder | 2 | 6 | 0 | 4 | 2 | 5 | 9 |
Friday, May 15
Timbers Win in Stoppage Time
The Timbers got the win in a physical game, in which Portland kept the pressure on Rochester.
Read the Portland Timbers News Release
Read the Portland Timbers News Release
Thursday, May 14
Game Day at PGE Park 8pm today the 14th
Thirsty Thursday
Rochester (3-1-1 10pts.)
at
Portland (1-1-2 5pts.)
8 pm PST
Thursday, May 14th 8pm
TV: Fox Soccer Channel
Video Webcast: USL Live
Radio: 95.5 FM
Update: Timbers, Rhinos end first half of play at PGE Park. Portland has a 1-0 lead heading into the break.
Rochester (3-1-1 10pts.)
at
Portland (1-1-2 5pts.)
8 pm PST
Thursday, May 14th 8pm
TV: Fox Soccer Channel
Video Webcast: USL Live
Radio: 95.5 FM
Update: Timbers, Rhinos end first half of play at PGE Park. Portland has a 1-0 lead heading into the break.
Wednesday, May 13
Next MLS team to be named Philadelphia Union
Philadelphia is joining the MLS for the 2010 season. Their team will be named the Union, with blue and gold colors representing the team.
Monday, May 11
An architectural landmark?
You're telling me this might hold up the deal? I was in this place for an expo recently and it needs to be put out of its misery.
Sunday, May 10
Friday, May 8
Portland at Cleveland, Saturday May 9th
Portland Timbers (1-1-1 4 pts.)
at
at
Cleveland City Stars (0-3-0, 0 pts.)
4 pm PST
Saturday, May 9th
Live Video Webcast: http://usllive.com/usl/console.jsp
Online Audio: http://www.portlandtimbers.com
Radio: 95.5 FM
Post your comments about the game below.
4 pm PST
Saturday, May 9th
Live Video Webcast: http://usllive.com/usl/console.jsp
Online Audio: http://www.portlandtimbers.com
Radio: 95.5 FM
Post your comments about the game below.
Update: The game ended in a 0-0 tie.
Tuesday, May 5
Monday, May 4
Timbers score first goals of the season
Just four minutes into Saturday's game, the Timbers scored their first goal of the season. They went on to beat Carolina 2-0.
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