The Timbers magic number now stands at 9. They need 9 points to qualify for the playoffs, and with eight games remaining in August and September, that is almost a lock. Other than Portland, three teams have the most realistic chance for the top spot, Carolina, Charleston and Puerto Rico. Out of those teams, the Timbers only have a match remaining against Charleston on the 28th, so that will be one of their biggest remaining games. Rochester still has an outside shot at the top spot as well, and Portland has two more remaining against the Rhinos. Portland finishes the season with two games in PGE Park against the basement-dwelling Cleveland City Stars, which should be a good chance for them to close out the season on a high note with a shot at the Commissioner's Cup.
Top spot gets a bye into the semis, so hopefully Portland finishes strong.
ReplyDelete