The Portland Timbers wrapped up their match against Colorado Rapids with a 0-3 loss in Commerce City, Colorado. With 3 games scheduled in about an eight-day time span, the Timbers have no time to linger on the loss.
Last week, we saw some awesome Timbers’ football against Seattle. With the title of Cascadia champions on the line, Portland was able to secure a win and give them the much-needed confidence as we near playoff season. But this past Saturday, we saw the Timbers fail on offense and defense.
So, what’s next for the Timbers? With the Timbers record moving to 4-7-4, there are some huge adjustments that must be made both offensively and defensively.
The Portland Timbers failed to use the momentum gained from the Cascadia Cup, and proved again to be out of their element on the road. The Timbers’ defense was lacking, with Troy Perkins having little help deep field. It was apparent that the Rapids came to play, putting pressure in the box and the Timbers failing to stop the Rapids’ quick draws on offense.
With a quick turnaround in the cards for the Timbers, time is running out to improve their chances for a playoff appearance. Fans are quick to point out individual players’ flaws, but it is obvious that it is the ease of football play that is lacking. Sadly, football for the Timbers looks as if it has become a bit of a chore.
Now, I am a Timbers fan, of course. I have been pulling for them all season long; yet, after watching the game against the Rapids, I was angry…angry because this team is better than that. So much better. With, in my opinion, some of the best players in the MLS, no one is executing. Perkins can hardly defend his goal with few there to help in the box. Kris Boyd takes gutsy shots on goal, but lacks consistency.
Midfielders Jewsbury, Alexander and Songo’o entered this season with some high expectations but have yet to prove themselves. The Timbers are lacking the stability midfield, a critical aspect of football play. I wish I had more to say other than criticism, but something must change now for the Timbers to see themselves in the MLS playoffs this year.
We have to return to that unpredictable driven football team that we are at heart, and do so with confidence. It now has become a mind game that the Timbers must overcome. With the perfect chance to prove themselves, the matchup against the #1 ranked San Jose Earthquakes begins tonight at 7:30 at JELD-WEN field. Go Timbers!
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