GAME PREVIEW: A NorthWest Rivalry Renewed

Lamar Hunt US Open Cup - 3rd ROUND

Portland Timbers

VS

Seattle Sounders

7:00 pm Wednesday, July 1st

PGE Park, LIVE on FSN

Radio: 95.5 TheGame

BACKGROUND

The Timbers and Sounders have a rivalry that dates back 34 years. Not only one of the longest-standing rivalries, but it's also one of the most spirited and bitterly contested traditions in all of American soccer. Over the years, many players have jumped ship or switched from team to team - this fact only amping up the tensions on both sides - many labeled as traitors, one past player even being called a Judas. Current Sounders keeper Kasey Keller, who played for the Timbers in 1989 has gained a unique perspective, “I don’t think a lot of the players quite understand what this game is going to be. I think when they show up on game day they’re going to realize real quick that there’s been some groups of fans that have really tried to turn this rivalry into a true, European hatred - which is kind of cool.” Hell yeah, it is.

Spanning across several leagues including the NASL, A-League, and the USL; the Timbers-Sounders Rivalry will instantly become one of the premiere duels in the MLS once Portland gains entrance in 2011. To date, the Sounders have claimed ownership to the "Cascadia Conflict" with a record at 13-8 in the NASL and 20-13-5 in the USL/A-League - including victories in the team's historic 1st ever meeting at ol' Civic Stadium and their last meeting in Seattle's big 2008 MLS send-off.

Both teams head into the match coming off recent victories and are having successful seasons in their respective leagues. The Timbers are riding a 14 game unbeaten streak, some calling this the most talented Timbers roster ever assembled, while the Sounders have the 3rd best record overall in their innagural season in the MLS and just ended the Colorado Rapids 8 game unbeaten streak. The Sounders have an up-tempo, fast-paced style of play. They're also second in the league in Goals Scored, bringing an exciting brand of offensive soccer to their fans - in some ways like the Phoenix Suns of the MLS.

The weatherman says that it'll be sunny with blue skies on Wednesday, a wonderful evening for a soccer match, with each team knowing what's at stake and what this match means to die-hard fans of both cities. The Timbers need to come out and make a statement, show that they are not intimidated by the MLS team, and prove that they belong out on the pitch. Can they control possession and efficiently take advantage of opportunities when they arise? Will they play with poise or will they crack under the pressure and be overwhelmed by Seattle's talent? And most importantly, will they be able to contain Fredy Montero? We'll find out tommorrow if the Timbers can take back control of this bitter Northwest Rivalry.

Players to Watch

Timbers FC

George Josten - The young forward has played well recently, can he keep making the most of his opportunites?

Mandjou Keita - He's been on an offensive explosion the last few games, his speed and ability to stretch the Sounders defense will be a huge key to Timbers success.

Brian Farber - The game will be won in the midfield and Farber will play a big role in determining the outcome. The Timbers will need him to bring the hustle and create chaos.

David Hayes - The team Captain will be leading the defense against the Souders high-powered attack, hopefully, his experience will shine through under the pressure of a big match.

Steve Cronin - The keeper has had a good season so far, originally an MLS product, but never really getting a fair shake - this will be another chance to show how he can defend the net against a major-league offense.

Sounders FC

Fredy Montero - A young rising star in the MLS, the 2nd leading goal scorer in the league, tops on the team in assists, and has a marketable and charming personality to boot. Simply one of the most exciting players in world to watch today.

Nate Jaqua - The Sounders other forward, this MLS veteran has been apart of many successful teams, including the championship Houston Dynamo club. He's been rejuvenated as a goal scorer and creator for Seattle this year.

Freddie Ljungberg - The teams designated expansion player, the swedish-born midfielder and English Premier League product, is a big part of keeping their offensive attack efficient.

Tyrone Marshall - The defender has started every game for the Sounders and provides strong veteran leadership. He can also be a threat on offense with 7 shots this season out of the back.

Kasey Keller - Considered one of the best keepers in the world, this legendary American goalie needs no formal introduction. The Timbers will have a tough task ahead of them trying to put a ball past Keller.

A few quick drops

Here are a few bits about the rivalry...

Portland fans really, really, don't like forward Roger Levesque and if this takes the conflict to "another level" well I suggest the Sounders catch up.

http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/sounders/2009399549_sounders30.html

Here's another reason to hate the Sounders...

http://seattlest.com/2007/05/04/a_guide_to_hating_the_portland_timbers.php

SBI says Timbers-Sounders is the main event.

http://www.soccerbyives.net/soccer_by_ives/2009/06/sounderstimbers-headlines-us-open-cup-third-round.html

Buzz from the local media -

http://www.oregonlive.com/timbers/index.ssf/2009/06/timberssounders_matchup_a_figh.html

http://www.portlandtribune.com/sports/story.php?story_id=124631569723447100

LET'S GO TIMBERS!!! LET'S GO TIMBERS!!!

TEAM USA Confederations Cup 2009

Just a few videos to relive and remember the great run the United States went on during the Confederations Cup this year. There were some great performances - Clint Dempsey, Tim Howard, and Landon Donovan - hopefully just a preview of what's to come in the World Cup next summer.

USA vs Egypt - The first bit of magic...



Highlights from the amazing USA VS Spain upset:



And finally, Brazil vs USA - Not the greatest result, but what a fun game to watch:

SUPER SOCCER SUNDAY Part 2 - Timbers Destroy Impact 4 - 0

A few quick thoughts
The Timbers completely dominated the Montreal Impact tonight at Portland's PGE Park, extending their league unbeaten streak to 12 matches. They're simply playing some great soccer and seem to be getting better each match. When the season opened, the offense had some akward moments and struggled to score goals. However, it looks like the team just needed a little time to gel and build chemistry, something that should be expected when you bring in an influx of new talent. The team has just been on a scoring explosion the last few weeks - the first time in team history they've won back-to-back games by 4 goals or more, standing at 2nd in the league for Goal Scored with 20.

Keita is really starting to shine. With 3 header goals in the last few games, he's been putting great pressure on the opposing team's defense - just looking comfortable out there.

Another shutout for Cronin. The Timber's defense is suffocating. Our midfielders are blazing fast and they play both ends of the pitch well. Farber was all over the place tonight, good to see him get a goal.

Suzuki has amazing touch with the ball and had some breath-taking runs tonight, none resulting in a goal, but he sure opened up my eyes a few times during the match. Fun to watch.

George Josten's been earning every bit of his new playing time. He's a threat when he gets the ball on the top of the box and I like his attacking attitude. A young prospect only recently out of college, he could have an MLS future soon.

This Portland Timber's roster is just loaded with talent and depth. Their confidence level is flying so high right now - they've said it and I think they truly believe it - with the way they've been playing, they cannot be beat. The Sounders better be ready for one tough match Wednesday.

SUPER SOCCER SUNDAY - Brazil Beats USA 3-2

A few quick thoughts
Tough loss for the U.S. today. They jumped out to a 2-0 lead only to see Brazil answer with 3 goals, winning the game and taking home the Confederation Cup trophy. It was truly a tale of two halves, Team USA came out with a ton of energy, especially on defense, breaking up balls and tightly marking Brazil's stars with a lot of aggresion. Although Brazil took more shots, it was the U.S. that capitalized on the advantages - both goals scored on quick counter strikes with effecient passing. But ultimately Brazil's offensive onslaught was too much, even with Keeper Howard protecting the goal valiantly. Brazil's ability to control possesion and consistently threaten with precision crosses on the money just flat out wore the U.S. out by the end of the game. It's tough to keep up that intesity level for a full 90 minutes.

The U.S. has nothing to hang their heads over. The team moved mountains just to get into the Finals and had Brazil dazed on the ropes and nearly knocked out. Chalk it up as a great learning experience and another block that they can keep building with. So many players really came along during this tournament - Clint Dempsey, Jozy Altidore, Tim Howard, Onyewu, Oguchi, Jonathan Spectre just to name a few. Plus, the team will return stars Freddy Adu and Brian Ching, both who were out with injuries. A lot of credit has to go to Landon Donovan, he played his heart out all tournament and I think he really sets the tone, leading by example for the younger guys. Despite the loss, taking 2nd place in the Confederations Cup Tourney is an achievment that the U.S. should feel very proud of and it will be a huge momentum builder as the team heads towards the 2010 World Cup.

Last drop - I really like defender Jonathan Spectre. He's just a smart player, plays with poise and makes great passes. Marking up on Kaka for most of the match (arguably the best player in the world today), I thought he did a more than admirable job, all things considering. He also assisted on the team's first goal of the game to Clint Dempsey. And speaking of Dempsey, how about that mid-air volleying kick into the back of the net? Pretty impressive.

GAME PREVIEW - Timbers Return To Action Against The Impact

Portland Timbers

VS

Montreal Impact

Sunday, June 28th

5:00pm PST

LIVE on FSN

PREVIEW: The Timbers play host to the Montreal Impact at PGE tommorow afternoon, returning to action after 8 days off. The layoff has given the team a chance to rest a few of their key players who've been out with minor ailments. Starting midfielders Ryan Pore, Tony Mcmanus, and starting defender Takuro Nishimura all will have an immediate impact. Despite the injuries, the Timbers haven't skipped a beat with many younger players like Alex Nimo taking advantage of the opportunites to show what they can do. The Timbers are riding an 11 game unbeaten streak into the match, unquestionably the hottest team in the league, and sits #1 on our weekly Power Rankings. A big part of what makes this team so tough is their unbelievable depth.

Currently, the Impact are six points behind the Timbers in the league standings, sitting in 5th place overall. They've been hot recently, winning their last three matches in league play, although they've dropped 3 in a row to the Timbers. The Impact like to play a tough, possession-control type of match, so the Timbers will have to be patient and effecient on offense. Earlier this month in Portland, the teams battled to a grinding 1-0 match, which ended on a last-minute goal by Keith Savage. If the team wants to stay ahead in the standings they'd better be ready for an intense match.

Montreal Key Players:
Roberto Ronaldo Brown Perea - The striker with the long name leads the the Impact in goals scored at 3 this season. He's dangerous if you give him space to work with, so the Timbers will have to mark him well.

Rocco Placentino - The Canadian leads the team in total points as well as tallying 5 assists already this season. From the midfield, Rocco is a quick playmaker with good touch on the ball and the Timbers will need to bottle him up, limiting his ability to create.

GAME PREVIEW

Confederations Cup FINAL

USA

vs

Brazil

Sunday, June 28th

11:00a PST ESPN

I'm so excited about this game that I'm nearly at a loss for words. Thus, I've decided to preview this game with the help of some photographs. Afterall, a picture is worth a thousand words, so it will save me and you from a lot of blabbering. Pictures are a lot of fun anyway.... see, blabbering already.

The last time the USA played Brazil was in the opening rounds of this very Confederation Cup tournament. We lost 3 - 0.

Team USA needs to be physical and tough. The defense will be forced to fight for their lives again. This will be a war.
Brazil has all the BIG STARS.


















But the U.S. has the YOUNG GUNS.

Brazil is known for having HOT soccer fans.

But we invented the HOT soccer MOM.




Can the U.S. beat the nation that's won 5 World CUPS?



Can we pull off another amazing upset and win the Confederate Cup Championship Sunday?
Are YOU excited? Because Clint Dempsey is fucking excited.

Timbers MLS Future More Certain

The city council voted today to separate the deals for renovating PGE Park for MLS Soccer, and finding a home for the AAA Beavers. This is a logical move, and is a strong step towards bringing the MLS to Portland.

The 4-1 vote will allow the city to work with Merritt Paulson, who owns the Beavers baseball and Timbers soccer teams, on separate public-private financing deals to renovate PGE Park for the Timbers' 2011 Major League Soccer debut and find a location to build a new ballpark for the Beavers.

http://www.oregonlive.com/portland/index.ssf/2009/06/major_league_soccer_plan_still.html

LIVE BLOGGING: USA vs Spain

- The US looks really good right now, controlling possession and attacking effectively.
- Charlie Davies with a bicycle kick shot on goal - a good attempt (6m)
- Spain starting to get their composure back (10m)
- Spain creates opportunities so quickly with their great passing, a near goal - but diving save by USA keeper Howard (18m)
- Spain hasn't lost a game since 2006 - Donovan with a quick blast! (20m)
- Jozy Altidore GOOOOOOOAAAAAAAALLL!!!!! USA leads Spain 1-0 (26m)
- That was a great goal by Altidore, accentuating his strength and speed, and he's only 19 years old, a lot of potential there.
- Bocanegra with a close header off a Dempsey free kick (36m)
- Spain has had MANY dangerous attacks - the US defense has been good....and fortunate sometimes. (42m)
- Howard almost does the splits to save that shot from Fernando Torres (44m)
- HALFTIME: USA leads Spain 1-0 Wow, incredible, seriously awesome.

- 2nd HALF under way.
- Keeper Tim Howard with consecutive great saves - Spain testing him right from the get go. (47m)
- Spain completely dominating the action now, US is packing it in on defense and then trying to quickly counter strike on offense. How long can they hang on? (56m)
- Howard continuing to make save after save under heavy assualt. (64m)
- US subs in Benny Feilhaber for Charlie Davies (68m)
- CLINT DEMPSEY GOOOOAAAALLL! USA with a lucky deflection and Dempsey there to put it in the back of the net, Dempsey is an amazing story - I'm happy for him. LET'S GO USA! (73m)
- Spain looks shocked right now. HAHAHAHA seriously awesome.
- Spain has made a few subs (78m)
- Defender Michael Bradley gets a red card on a slide tackle! BS CALL - He's out for the Final now, but the US has some depth, should be ok.
- FINAL: USA 2 Spain 0 UPSET CITY BABY! US now plays the winner of Brazil/South Africa for the Confederation Cup Championship!
- Game Ball goes to Tim Howard, he was a maniac guarding that net today, fully deserving of that shut out.

GAMEDAY PREVIEW

Confederations Cup Semi-Finals

USA VS Spain

Live on ESPN
11:25 pst

Background: The FIFA Confederations Cup originally started in 1992 under the name the King Fahd Cup or aka the Intercontinental Championship (not kidding WWE fans). The USA participed in the 4-team innagural competition, taking third. The tournament has undergone many changes since its debut, but currently occurs every four-years, serving as a dress-rehearsal of sorts for the host city of the World Cup. Brazil are the current reigning Champions.

Preview: Spain is the hottest and most dominant team on the national scene today and that's probably an understatement. They're winners of a record-breaking 15 wins in a row and with a victory agianst the USA they'd push their unbeaten streak to 36, also a record. After Team USA's minor miracle just to get into the semi-finals, does the team have enough energy left to make magic one more time? Bradley seems to think so -

"We came up against Spain before Euro 2008 and we played a great game. We've been watching them during this tournament and we've been taking note of their style. We know how to stop them and we are very confident."

Spain is the heavy favorite to advance on to the Finals to face the winner of Brazil/South Africa, so lets hope that Bradley is a really good note-taker. If the USA can pull off this upset, it would be an incredible story and a loud statement that US Soccer is legitimate and demanding of the world's respect.

TIMBER BITS - 2 Timbers earn USL Team of the Week Honors

- George Josten and team-captain David Hayes made the USL First Division Team of the Week, both being recognized for their great play in contributing to the Timber's 5-1 slaughtering of the Thunder. Hayes, the 11-year veteran, has been a steady defender all year, but perhaps the one we should keep our eyes on is Josten. The 23-year old was drafted 20th overall in the 2008 MLS draft, but never even played a game for the Colombus Crew. He also finished his career at Gonzaga the school's 3rd all-time leading scorer and 4th in assists - the kid has some potential. Here's a link to check out the rest of this weeks First Teamers:

http://usl1.uslsoccer.com/home/342082.html

- Be sure to check out "Timbers Talk" on 95.5 theGAME tonight, 7-8 pm on the FM dial. Host John Strong does a great job with the show, knows his stuff, and basically he's not a hype-creating, uninformed, buffoon like many other local media personalities who shall remain unnamed. Guest include Head Coach Gavin Wilkinson and defender David Hayes - you can listen to what the Coach has gotta say online live:

http://www.955thegame.com/Multimedia/ListenLive/tabid/69/Default.aspx

- In case you're interested, Timber's starters Takayuki Suzuki and Takuro Nishimura will be making an appearance at the Cricket Wireless store Downtown, tommorrow from 4-6pm. If you're a big J-League fan (Japan's top division), then this is probably a massive deal, Sazuki did score a historic goal for Japan's National Team in the 2002 World Cup, so suffice it say he's pretty big-time over there. Maybe you're simply a Timber's fan - go check it out - get an autograph.

- It was just announced that the Timbers-Sounders game will be televised on FSN, which is good because PGE park is expecting a pretty packed house. However, for those planning on simply watching at home beware of possible scheduling conflicts with the Mariners game. Here's the link with further details:

http://www.prostamerika.com/soundersfc/2009/06/22/fsn-to-show-portland-v-seattle-game/

- One last quick drop: Apparently, the people over at Oregonlive believe that Teddy bears are responsible for the Timbers home win last week. I like a soft, cuddly, stuffed animal as much as anyone else and I'm certainly not an opponent of charity, but come on. Or perhaps, I'm just not putting enough merit into the motivational power of the Teddy Bear.

http://blog.oregonlive.com/timbers/2009/06/timbers_teddy_bear_toss_sparks.html

Dropping Timber Power Ranking

We rank teams by points divided by games played, to adjust for teams who have played less.

#1 Portland Timbers (1.92)
#2 Carolina RailHawks (1.85)
#3 Puerto Rico Islanders (1.79)
#4 Charleston Battery (1.71)
#5 Miami FC Blues (1.45)
#6 Rochester Rhinos (1.42)
#7 Montreal Impact (1.40)
#8 Vancouver Whitecaps (1.27)
#9 Austin Aztex (0.85)
#10 Minnesota Thunder (0.64)
#11 Cleveland City Stars (0.62)

(points divided by games played in parentheses)

Live Updates Portland 5 - Minnesota 1 FINAL

• Portland scores in the 3rd minute of the game. Josten Goal, Farber Assist
• 31st minute Suzuki blaez one into the far post, Josten with the perfectly placed assist
• Minnesota has had some chances on goal to no success
• The Thunder finally come through on a free kick goal by Ricardo Sanchez.
• HALFTIME - Portland 2, Minnesota 1. Looks like we have a game.
• 60th minute RED CARD Minnesota #24 Julius James. An obivous holding and take down in the box
• 62 minute David Hayes converts the peanlty kick 3-1 Portland
• 84th minute Keita is pulled down and then kicked. Keita takes a swing at some Minnesota jerk, and recives and yellow. Minnesota player recieves another red.
• 87th minute Keita scores a beautiful header off the corner kick. Minnesota playing two men down and three goals behind. Put a fork in Thunder because they are done!
• 90th minute Scott Thompson scores off the header. This is an ass kicking!
• 90th minute Melvin Terley RED CARD a nasty tackle against Portland in a game that has already been decided. Are we playing the Lakers?
• FINAL 5-1 The unbeaten streak stays alive.

GAME PREVIEW - Portland faces bottom of the barrel Minnesota

Portland
Vs.
Minnesota
Friday June 19 8:00PM
PGE Park

TV: Fox Soccer Channel
Comcast 401
Direct Tv 619
Radio: 95.5 The Game
WebCast: USL Live

The blazing Portland Timbers face the leagues worst team, Minnesota Thunder with only one win in ten games. That one win is important though, as it happened last Sunday in 2-0 thriller over Carolina. Some new players in the lineup are making a difference and Minnesota may be looking to turn a new page after a dismal start to the season. Minnesota also advanced to the third round of the US cup with a 4-0 slaughtering of Chicago Fire Development Team. As you all know Portland is now undefeated in past 12 matches including 2 non-league games. So come out to PGE Park this Friday drink a few pints and show your pride and support!

Minnesota Key Players
Brian Cvilikas missed the first six games of the season, but now is fully recovered and back into the lineup as he took last week's player of the week honors. He scored the two goals to put Minnesota's first win of the season on the boards.

Ricardo Sanchez was the captain for Mexico's U-17 back in 1999. Since then he played for B teams in Mexico and came to the USL in 2007. He is now in frigid Minnesota, where he leads the team with 2 goals and 3 assists.

It's on, Seattle

To see what we are dealing with, check this out:

FUCK OFF, portland scum
You didn't have a dad and you didn't have a mum
born in a test tube from inbred cum
Too much meth where you come from

http://weareecs.com/phpBB/viewtopic.php?f=21&t=4003

Maybe John Canzano will write an article about that.


Also see:


http://weareecs.com/phpBB/viewtopic.php?f=21&t=4021

Portland wins 3-0, Seattle coming to PGE Park

The big story today is that the Timbers will advance to the third round of the US Open cup to take on arch-rival Seattle. Portland's 3-0 victory over Sonoma County means the Sounders will come to PGE Park on July 1st. It took two wins for the Timbers to advance into the third round; all MLS teams get a bye this far into the tournament.

The Timbers won off an early goal from George Josten at the seventh minute, and then two late insurance goals from Manjou Keita. Cronin picked up another shut-out, and Portland hasn't lost in 12 games (counting non-league games).

Dropping Timber will be taking a close look at the Sounders, and whether Portland has any chance of pulling the upset, in upcoming posts. Stay tuned and keep dropping timber everyday.

DroppingTwitter and Live Updates for Portland vs. Sonoma County

Live Updates will be simul-posted to the blog and Twitter. Follow us on Twitter. There is no TV or radio coverage of the game, so stick with us!

Gametime: 7pm
Live Updates:

• Santa Rosa weather at 7pm: 71° F Mostly Cloudly, 10 mph winds
• Seattle has requested that if Portland wins, their third round game will be moved to July 1st
• GOOOAAL! George Josten! Timbers lead 1 - 0.
• Keita scores two goals.
• Timbers win 3-0. Seattle is next.
  

GAME PREVIEW - US Open Cup Second Round

The Battle for Seattle Begins Tonight

A Portland win tonight in Sonoma County will lead to a showdown June 30th at PGE Park with arch-rival, new MLS team and all around aholes Seattle Sounders. The war Begins tonight as the mighty mighty Timbers face Sonoma County.

Portland

at
Sonoma County Sol

Tuesday
June 16, 7:00PM

The Timbers face Sonoma County Sol in the second round of the US Open Cup on Tuesday. Sonoma plays in the National Premier Soccer League, a national amateur league which plays at the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid. They won their first round game 5-2 against the Orange County Blues Stars. Sonoma sits at the top of their table in the NPSL with six wins and one tie. Hopefully, Portland's hot streak will continue because a win would pit Portland against arch rival Seattle Sounders on June 30th at PGE Park. Come on boys bring us a victory tonight!

Checkout the US Open Cup Bracket

First person to post the final official score after the final whistle gets a free pint.

Live Update - FIFA Confederations Cup - South Africa 2009

The US national team leads 1-0 against Italy at halftime. We will keep you updated as results happen. For more live online coverage check out FIFA.com

• Ricardo Clark is sent off in the 33rd minute. US playing one man down due to a blown call by the ref.
  
• Landon Donovan scores in 41st minute on a penalty kick.
• Italy scores the equalizer in the 58th minute.
• 70th minute still 1-1 match
• Italy leads 2-1 Rossi scores in the 72nd minute.
• US keeping the pressure on Italy. 89th minute
• 90th minute. 4 minutes stoppage time.
• 93rd minute. Rossi scores the third goal.
• FINAL USA 1 Italy 3
  

First Half Highlights

GAME NOTES - Timbers go 10 games Unbeaten

The Timbers tied Charleston 1-1 today, extending their unbeaten streak to 10 league games. After controlling the first half, the Battery broke through about 20 mins into the 2nd half on some nice passing leading to a goal by forward Randi Patterson. The Timbers would answer - 20mins later finding their equalizer, defender Scott Thompson sending the cross over to Manjou Keita for the scoring header. A frenzied eruption of scoring opportunities for both teams during the closing minutes made for a nerve-racking ending, a nice change after a mundane first half.

- The Timbers seemed really loose and out of focus in the first half, turning the ball over way too many times. I wish I had the stats available, but the Battery surely dominated time of possession and passing percentage. After they fell down a goal the Timbers instantly picked up their intesnsity level, just too bad they couldn't begin the match that way.

- We saw some really good stuff from Scott Thompson, not just assisting on the score, but also getting his foot on a bunch of break-ups, including one of the last second saves. It seems like a different player from the Timbers defense steps-up each week.

- Alex Nimo continued his impressive play, especially considering he only turned 19 recently. Hopefully Coach Wilkinson will keep him the starting lineup - I like the creativity and energy he brings to the offense, throughout the 2nd half he posed a constant threat down that right wing. In fact it was his ability to squeeze something out of a broken play that eventually lead to the Keita header.

- The Battery were forced to take keeper Hudock out due to back pain, which proved to be a key moment in the game - 6 minutes later replacement keeper Keith Wiggans getting a rude welcoming into the game.

- I'd say the Timbers should be pretty happy about going on the road against the leagues two top teams and leaving with 2 points. Next, they head on the road to take on the Sonoma County Sol in the 2nd round of the US Open Cup, Tuesday afternoon.

GAME PREVIEW - Timbers Take On 1st Place Charleston Battery

Portland Timbers (5-1-4, 19 pts)

VS

Charleston Battery (6-0-5, 23 pts)

Saturday, June 13th

4:30 PST

Webcast: USL Live - watch it FREE online!

Radio: 95.5 The Game

GAME PREVIEW - Can anobody beat the Battery this season? Still without a loss after eleven league games, opponents have barely been able to score on the Battery - a league leading 3 Goals Against. The Timbers take their 9 game unbeaten streak into Blackbaud Stadium, have only given up 4 goals all season, and currently sit 3rd in the standings. These are the two hottest teams in the USL. The return of a few key players for the Battery, including midfielder Ian Fuller and Jamaican defender O’Brian Woodbine, are reasons for concern for Portland.

BATTERY KEY PLAYERS

Tsuyoshi Yoshitake - Yoshitake, a quality midfielder, returns from injury this week after a pulled hamstring kept him out 3 games. He scored a goal Tuesday in Charleston's 2-0 victory over Atlanta FC.

Tyler Hemming - The young British midfielder and former MLS product has been impressive recently, assisting on both Battery goals last Friday en route to earning Player of the Week honors.

Dusty Hudock - Simply the best keeper in the USL this year - leads the league with 8 shutouts.

TIMBER'S KEY PLAYERS

Stephen Keel - The Timber's defensive leader is going to have his hands full this Saturday. The team needs his size and phsyical play to wear down the Battery attackers, hopefully his experience will shine through.

Alex Nimo - The Timbers youngest player (age 19) has been showing flashes lately, starting and playing all match during the Timbers tie with Carolina, also leading the team with three shots on goal. The Timber's will need his touch and creativity with the ball if they hope to put pressure on the Battery defense.

Ryan Pore - A big key to winning the game will be controlling the midfield. Pore leads the team in points and a high intensity level from him is a must.

KEY TO THE GAME - The Timbers need to score first and score early, something they've had success with in recent weeks. An early lead will put pressure on the Battery at home, hopefully forcing them to play tight and over reach on offense. It's the BIGGEST game of the season - GO TIMBERS!

GAME NOTES - Timbers Settle For a Draw

Although the Timbers unbeaten streak remains intact, leaving with only a tie against the Carolina Railhawks certainly feels bitter-sweet. Especially considering the Railhawks were a man down in the 2nd half, the Timbers have to taste some disapointment - missing out on a crucial opportunity to gain big ground in the standings

- In the first half, Portland looked pretty solid. They controlled most of the action, a few times getting me out of my seat, but just couldn't find the back of the net. Still, impressive considering the Railhawks have been the ones dominating their opponents as of late.

- After the Railhawks went down a man they seemed to play better, with more energy and spirit. Perhaps knowing they were at a disadvantage made them all kick up their intensity levels. Either way, you could see why they made us their fifth shutout victim in a row - their defense and back-midfield suffocated the Timbers, not allowing them into any good flow or rhythm. In fact, Timber's keeper Steve Cronin was forced into some tough moments as the Railhawk's offense created close scoring opportunities.

- Keita seemed a little indecisive which isn't unusual, a few times resulting in awkward plays around the box. He definetely has the speed to put pressure on the defense, but perhaps just needs more time to adjust to the competition level.

- I think the team just looked a little out of gas. The travelling and only one day off in between games perhaps started to take its toll. Hopefully, they'll have enough left in the tank for this weekends BIG game.

- The "sweet" part is that the Timbers win the season series against Carolina, their first meeting ending in a scoreless draw and on May 2nd beating them 2-0, both matches played at PGE Park.

- The live webcast on USLlive.com is good quality and best of all - free. Check it out for the next Timbers game (Saturday 4:30 at Charleston) or for other free soccer games if you just need to watch soccer.

Portland vs. Carolina: Live Updates

• 0-0 still at half time. Portland dominates possession and is looking good.
• Cunliffe gets a red card around the 54th minute. Railhawks playing a man down. Still 0-0.
• 72nd minute and still 0-0. Carolina is playing better with a man down, getting some dangerous looks in the second half. Keita blew a couple plays down by the goal.
• Final score: 0-0. Portland 11 straight unbeaten.
  

Game Day - The battle for the Series

Portland (5-1-3 18pts.)
Vs.
Carolina (7-2-1 22pts.)

Thursday June 11
4pm PST

Webcast: USL Live
Radio: 95.5 the Game

Game Preview

Portland is on the road for the next two games as it faces the top two teams in the league. Tonight we face the 2nd place Carolina Railhawks that we beat and tied in two games this season. Looking at the stats of both teams and there are many similarities such as goals for and against. This match up will be the last of the season between the teams, and will determine who wins the series. Can Portland go nine straight without a loss?

Lamar Hunt US Open Cup FIRST ROUND - Portland beats Kitsap 3 - 0

BACKGROUND: The Lamar Hunt US Open Cup is an annual tournament open to professional American soccer teams, including clubs from the USL and the MLS. The original competition dates back to 1914, (essentially the American equivalent to the FA Cup in England) and since the MLS has entered the tournament, they've taken home the title every year with only one exception - the Rochester Raging Rhinos defeating four MLS teams en route to a historic 1999 title run. The Timbers have competed in the US Open Cup since 2001, compiling a record of 3-5-0, their best finish making it to the fourth round of competition.

- Well tonight, first round games were played and the Portland Timbers opened against the Kitsap Pumas of the PDL soccer association. After nothing in the first half, the Timbers scored three goals in the second - Farber, Hayes, and Mclaughlin each finding the back of the net. With the win, the Timbers advance to the second round of the tournament and will battle the Sonoma County Sol of the ASA on June 16th.

- It would be quite an accomplishment if the Timbers could make it deep into the tourney. In recent years, the Seattle Sounders have made it to the semi-finals twice, one of only a handful of non-MLS clubs that have advanced that far. Do we have the talent to make a big run?

* Follow the tournament at www.usopencup.com

Timbers Stat Leaders

Goals

• Ryan Pore 3
• Brian Farber 2
• Mandjou Keita 2
• Three players tied with one goal
  

Assists

• Brian Farber 2
• Five players tied with one assist
  

USL Goal of the Week 8 - George Josten

Check out the link below to see George Josten's beautiful goal May 30th against Vancouver. Josten split two defenders to put Portland up 2-0 against the Whitecaps.
Goal of the Week 8 - George Josten

Current USL Standings

Rank	Teams	Pts	GP	W	L	T	GF	GA
1	Carolina RailHawks	22	10	7	2	1	12	5
2	Charleston Battery	19	9	5	0	4	9	2
3	Portland Timbers	18	9	5	1	3	10	4
4	Puerto Rico Islanders	15	10	4	3	3	13	13
5	Rochester Rhinos	13	9	4	4	1	10	9
6	Vancouver Whitecaps	11	8	3	3	2	8	9
7	Austin Aztex	9	7	2	2	3	9	9
8	Montreal Impact	8	8	2	4	2	9	8
9	Miami FC Blues	7	7	2	4	1	6	8
10	Cleveland City Stars	4	9	1	7	1	3	17
11	Minnesota Thunder	3	8	0	5	3	6	11

The Timbers get a six day rest before their next game against the #1 team in the USL, Carolina. All that prep time should give them an edge against the Railhawks, who Portland already has a win and a tie against.

GAME NOTES - Timbers Move within a point of 2nd place

- The Timber's defense gets another shut out, its fifth of the season. The mid-field controlled most of the action, keeping the Impact to one shot in the first half. Keeper Steve Cronin, despite only having to defend a handful of shots, made some nice plays affirming his first team USL selection last week.

- Alex Nimo had a huge "impact" on the game. Listed at 5'5", Nimo showed great speed and vision tonight, despite clearly being the smallest guy on the pitch. It will be interesting to see if Coach Gavin Wilkinson gets him more run.

- Mandjou Keita was ineffective again. He's got the speed, but can sometimes leave you scratching your head with his decision making. Forward Jason Mclaughlin had two makeable good-looks on goal, but missed both late in the match. Despite dominating shots on goal and time of possession, the Timbers offensive struggles reappeared, failing to execute upfront consistently. Solutions? Perhaps, the slick field turf had something to do with it.

- All in all, an exciting Timber's victory. They showed great patience in controlling the match and it's nice to see the defenders getting in on the scoring action - David Hayes on the throw-in and Cameron Knowles with the nice header, setting up the game-winning 90th minute goal. AMAZING. The Timbers unbeaten streak now stands at eight.

GOAAAAAAAAL! TIMBERS SCORE AT 90TH MINUTE!!!!

Keith Savage kicks it in off a header! Timbers 1-0 over Montreal.

Today is Game Day at PGE Park

Thirsty Thursday

Montreal (2-3-2 8pts.)
at
Portland (4-1-3 15pts.)

PGE Park
Thursday, June 4th 7pm PST

Television: Fox Sports Northwest
Video Webcast: USL Live
Radio: 95.5 FM The Game



Game Preview

Portland is on a hot streak of eight straight unbeaten games (7 league games, 1 friendly). Montreal is off to a slower start, but got a huge victory last weekend in Rochester with a goal by Roberto Brown in the 80th minute. The game with Rochester was a foul filled affair with 8 yellow cards and an ejection in 60th minute of the Rhino's Chris Nurse. Rochester playing dirty and a man down, so what else is new? Roberto Brown a former Colorado Rapids team mate of Stephen Keel, and Tacoma native Joey Gjertsen lead the team with 12 shots and 2 goals each. The Former Italian club player Rocco Placentino leads the team in assists with three.
The key to this game will be the same as the past few, Portland's defense. Portland has four shutouts in eight league games and has not allowed an opponent to score more than one goal so far this season. Our solid defense has left it up our potent offense to seal the victory.

Game Notes:

- A win tonight would put the Timbers just a point away from second place

US National Team World Cup Qualifying Match

U.S. National Team

at
Costa Rica

7pm PST
Wednesday June 3
Venue: Estadio Ricardo Saprissa
Location: San Jose, Costa Rica
Live on ESPN

CONCACAF FINAL ROUND

Final Round of Qualifying, Top two teams advance to the 2010 World Cup

Team	GP	W	L	T	GF	GA	GD	Pts
United States	3	2	0	1	7	2	+5	7
Costa Rica	3	2	1	0	3	2	+1	6
Honduras	3	1	1	1	4	3	+1	4
Mexico	3	1	2	0	3	5	-2	3
El Salvador	3	0	1	2	4	5	-1	2
Trinidad & Tobago	3	0	1	2	3	6	-3	2

Learn More at ussoccer.com