Timber 1 – 1 FC Dallas
The Portland Timbers came away from their match against FC Dallas with a much better attitude than they had in their previous matchup against the team from Texas.
Instead of giving up five goals (including an own goal), the Timbers surrendered just one in front of yet another boisterous crowd at JELD-WEN field.
The first half was not much to talk about. Both teams looked as though they belonged at the bottom of the MLS standings and play was rather lackluster.
Despite some aggressive challenges and two impressive saves, the two teams could not muster much excitement through the first 45.
Things changed quickly, however, in the second half.
FC Dallas forward Scott Sealy quickly struck home a goal in the second half to put the visitors up 1-0 in the 51st minute of action. For a short time it looked as though Portland was en route to it’s sixth straight victory. Jack Jewsbury, however, would have none of it.
After Zach Loyd of Dallas left the match because of a red card, Jewsbury rattled home the late equalizer in the 79th minute to ultimately give Portland the tie.The Timbers and Dallas both received a point for their efforts.
Here are this week’s love ‘em & hate ‘em from a game that saw Portland play much better than they had in recent weeks.
Love ‘em
The Losing Streak is Over
Before this game, Portland had not managed a win in five straight contests, obliterating their chances at an appearance in the MLS playoffs and putting a bad mark on their record.
To put together at least some form of points at this part of the season was crucial. The Timbers showed that they can still play and will be looking for much better momentum heading forward.
Scoreless Streak is Over
Prior to scoring in the 79th minute, Portland had broke their own MLS record for longest time without a goal this season.
Though the Timbers have had opportunities to put the ball in the net, they have not been able to capitalize on these opportunities in the past weeks.
Portland was finally able to push the ball across the goal line and will hopefully be able to keep a scoring mentality moving forward into the latter half of the season.
FC Dallas Held at Bay
The last time the Timbers played FC Dallas they surrendered five goals.
Surrendering just one this time around was a vast improvement and a sign that their prior contest was likely just a defensive fluke.
Don’t expect the Timbers to be surrendering five goals again anytime soon.
Hate ‘em
Frank Songo’o Out for Next Match.
While Frank Songo’o did not receive a red card by any means, he will be suspended for Portland’s next match as he has received too many yellow cards.
Songo’o is a key piece of the Portland team and will be missed in their next game.
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