If there’s anything I’ve learned about the Timbers this year is that they can play the top flight teams tough when they want. Saturday night in Philadelphia, The Portland Timbers stole a road point from the home side after having beaten the Union in Portland earlier in the season.
This game meant a ton to both teams as they are both near the bottom of the table fighting for that last playoff spot by way of the wild card. The Union hasn’t had the best of luck recently, having not won since July 17th. Even possession was the name of this game with the home team gaining a slight edge in the first half while gaining an overall edge in the game 59 to 41%.
The Union came into this game having played two games in the previous 8 days with most starters playing full minutes in the previous contests. These minutes might have contributed to the tired legs seen by some players in the second half. Outside of Sebastian Le Toux and Danny Mwanga, only Sheanon Williams seemed to have any kind of spring in their step come the last 45 minutes of this contest.
The Union started the game out in a furry with some fantastic chances especially one “ankle-breaking” cross over by Michael Farfan on Defender Lovel Palmer. (Do yourself a favor and Google this highlight) Attacking forward LeToux and midfielder Freddy Adu both contributed to the attack for Philly but the central defenders for the Boys in Green held strong while goalie Troy Perkins didn’t let anything by.
The name of this game for the visiting Timbers was once again missed chances by their forward Kenny Cooper and midfielder Sal Zizzo. Cooper missed a goal on a pretty ball from Diego Chara and Sal Zizzo almost getting a chip shot over goalie Zac Macmath.
Team Notes:
- The Timbers return home for two games against SJ and New England.
(image courtesy of Getty Images)
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