Portland Timbers Outlast Columbus in MLS Cup

The Portland Timbers defeated the Columbus Crew SC earlier tonight by a score of 2-1. I have seen many MLS Cups in my lifetime, but this one was by far the most bizarre.

In the first 30 seconds of the game Columbus goalkeeper Steve Clark had a pass played back to him. He attempted to take a fancy touch which ended up in the back of the net by a sliding Diego Valeri. The goal was the quickest one in MLS Cup history.

Five minutes later, the referee missed an obvious ball that was out of bounds which resulted in Lucas Melano playing a stunning ball to the head of Rodney Wallace, this put the Crew down 2-0.

Dec 6, 2015; Columbus, OH, USA; Columbus Crew goalkeeper Steve Clark (1) is unable to clear the ball allowing Portland Timbers midfielder Diego Valeri (8) to score a goal during the first half in the 2015 MLS Cup championship game at MAPFRE Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowksi-USA TODAY Sports /

In the 18th minute, another goalkeeping error occurred, this time by Timbers goalkeeper Adam Kwarasey. A cross delivered in the box caused trouble for Kwarasey. This allowed Kei Kamara to put the ball between Alas Powell’s legs and the Crew back in the game.

The second half was one of the most jaw dropping halves of soccer I have ever seen. In the 60th minute, Valeri found Wallace on a corner, who put a shot on target that went off the crossbar then landed on Michael Parkhurst’s hand.

Then ten minutes later, Jorge Villafana put a cross into Fanendo Adi, who headed the ball off the far post. Both teams had quality chances, but the quick start proved vital for the Timbers Army.

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Keys to Success for Portland

The 3D’s – Valeri, Nagbe, and Chara proved to be the main focus for Portland in this game. At times the passing was not sharp, but the three of them played fantastic on both sides of the ball and won the midfield battle.

Finding Fanendo – Through the duration of the match, every time Adi was found the Timbers had success. The key for Portland’s offensive success was Adi. He did a great job holding the ball up and opening up space for the wingers/full backs.

The Woes for Columbus

Sloppy Midfield – Trapp and Tchani were not good enough in this match. Especially Trapp. I have always been a fan of Trapp but today was not his day. Careless balls played caused many turnovers which Portland thrived on.

The Whole Defense – The defensive effort was poor for Columbus especially after shutting down the likes of Didier Drogba and Bradley Wright Phillips in prior games. The only decent defender for the Crew was Michael Parkhurst.

Home Field Advantage- The Crew looked lackadaisical for the first fifteen minutes which resulted in two early goals for Portland. I believe it was because they were up in the home fans and were not focused enough.

My MVP

Timber’s Army- Diego Valeri won the Most Valuable Player for the match, but I think the real MVP was the Timber’s Army. I watched the match on television and the only thing I could hear were the chants of the Portland fans. The support group in Portland is great and deserved the trophy today.

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