Lamar Hunt US Open Cup - 3rd ROUND
Portland Timbers
VS
Seattle Sounders7:00 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.
Here's another reason to hate the Sounders...
SBI says Timbers-Sounders is the main event.
Buzz from the local media -
LET'S GO TIMBERS!!! LET'S GO TIMBERS!!!
I am super stoked!
ReplyDeleteI would like to keep this respectful, and say that I am glad that Portland's big sister is coming down to play us.
ReplyDeleteThis game has become the talk of town. I have the most random people asking me about the game. Last I heard less than 2000 tickets were left.
ReplyDeleteI think the crowd's gonna play a big factor, it'll be an awesome atmosphere. Timber's Army will be crazy I'm sure. If the Timbers can keep up their intesity level and make some things happen in the midfield then anything is possible. I smell an upset. Flounders are gettin' fried.
ReplyDeleteWe'll be dropping timber in section 104 tonight, as usual. We should have a live picture feed as well, but it shouldn't matter because you need to be AT THE GAME.
ReplyDeleteLess than seven hours til kickoff.
ReplyDeleteToday they opened up 400 tickets for standing room only due to the sellout at PGE park!!!!!!
ReplyDeleteKeita won player of the week.
ReplyDelete