GAME NOTES: The Timbers Stand Alone! Longest Unbeaten Streak of All-Time!

A few drops...
- The Portland Timbers crushed the Miami FC Blues 3-0 this afternoon and break the USL first division record for longest all-time unbeaten streak. Going 16 matches without a loss, the Timbers don't seem to be slowing down at all, as they move into a tie for first place in the league with the Puerto Rico Islanders. Both teams lead the USL with 34 pts and are set for a Thursday evening showdown with the Timbers at PGE Park, the winning team leaving with sole possession of First Place. Should be a packed house.

- The Timbers mixed around their lineup a bit today. Ryan Pore didn't play - that injury he recieved during Friday's game still bothering him apparently, let's hope it's nothing serious. However - Danso, Savage, Claesson - all got starts today and Coach Wilkinson played 4 subs throughout the match. I thought it was a smart move to shake things up a bit, especially in a back-to-back situation, probably helped to keep Miami on their toes and also keep Portland from getting complacent out on the pitch. Just another advantage the Timber's have with their incredible depth.

- Although the team started the game off a bit slow, they just became more and more dominant as the match progressed. I was expecting a drop-off from Friday or a lack of energy by the team, but this wasn't the case at all. Wilkinson has to be acknowledged for keeping the team motivated and for his willingness to tinker with the lineup.

- Suzuki is so important to the success of this team. The more I watch him the more I like him. His constant energy and tenacity up that sideline is apparent every match and the Timbers are so much more dangerous with him putting pressure on the defense and creating opportunities. Today's goal by Savage is a great example of Suzuki's value. He created something out of nothing, somehow squeezing through two defenders, and then sent a ball on the money to Savage at the top of the box. Suzuki is the man and he is from Japan.

- Hayes is deadly off those free kicks. He's been very aggressive lately when he gets good placements, blasting quality shots from 30+ yrds out. Almost had another goal this afternoon.

- Cronin gets his 5th shutout of the season. He didn't have to work too hard today. Portland outshot Miami 13-8 and Miami didn't have very many threatening strikes. Credit has to go to Portland's veteran defense who've been solid all season. In fact, Scott Thompson is now the all-time Timbers leader in minutes played, so basically he's been making bad passes and unforced turnovers for a long time for this franchise. Good thing he can defend.

- What a great victory. Just an amazing season in progress for the Timbers. First place in the division. Setting the USL record books ablaze. And their condidence is soaring, I don't think this team feels like they can lose right now. Thursday is going to be a blast - cheap beer, nice weather, and a battle for first place in the league. We'll have your Game Preview posted in the next couple days. GO TIMBERS