Some draws have the feeling of a loss but tonight’s draw for the Portland Timbers felt like a big win. Despite the share of spoils against a rejuvenated Colorado Rapids, the Portland side is still undefeated in four consecutive outings.
I don’t doubt this match will be the highlight of Week 25 in Major League Soccer due to its high intensity, thrills, and competition during the second half that elevated the tone of this match. Still, it wasn’t easy for the Rose City side playing with just ten men during the course of the whole match.
In a match considered with all the elements of the postseason and at times physical, the Timbers went down to ten men after Bill Tuiloma, with a hard tackle over Mark Anthony- Kaye, picked up a second yellow card sending off in the 42nd minute.
With the half ending goalless, who thought that the second half was to become the highlight of this match.?Suddenly the dominance of the visitors was evident after dominating in possession and shots.
Soon, Colorado took advantage of the match and opportunities. It was a combination of Andre Shinyashiki passing to Jonathan Lewis that beat Steve Clark for the game’s first score on 64 minutes. However, not even three minutes passed by when a Dario Zuparic shot was met by a wide-open Felipe Mora in the 67th minute, scoring via a header.
Colorado regained the lead when Michael Barrios beat Claudio Bravo and Steve Clark for what seemed a difficult shot in the 87th minute. In the end, these Timbers grew when the game officials announced six minutes of stoppage time.
Suddenly, we see the appearance of Sebastian Blanco. Ever since his return from the injured list, the man has been notable and immense in the Portland attack and defensively. By rallying everyone on the pitch, the Andean scored with a play that seemed difficult but not impossible one minute into stoppage time, leaving the visiting Rapids stunned.
Goals
Jonathan Lewis 64’ CR, Felipe Mora 67’ PTFC, Michael Barrios 87’ CR, Sebastian Blanco 90+1’ PTFC
Men of the Match
Felipe Mora, Sebastian Blanco
