Tactical decisions or simple rotations? Portland’s starting 11 sees Norberto Paparatto, Maxi Urruti, and Gaston Fernandez with Diego Valeri starting from the Bench.
Jorge Vilafana (Portland) had a very active game, solid in defense and with dangerous attacks from his left wing.
Portland strikes their first in a set piece with Vilafana finding Urruti’s head in the middle of the box for the 1-0.
Urruti celebrates his goal eventually leading to his classic “archer’.
A foul on Jorge Vilafana was very protested by Houston players and triggered Johnson reaction involving a pushing match between him and half of the Dynamo’s defense.
Nagbe also had a very active role in Portland’s attack, seems to find in Gaston Fernandez his best partner in the attack.
A confused play in Houston’s area was punished as penalty by the referee. Gaston Fernandez would masterfully convert it in to the final 2-0 of the match.
Fernandez celebrates in front of the fans, after a difficult season beginning where Gaston couldn’t find enough minutes of play, he has demonstrated again his worth to the team.
Norberto Paparatto closed a great appearance working almost seamlessly with Liam Ridgewell in the back 4.
Game over, Portland Timbers 2 – Houston Dynamo – 0
The celebrations are not only for players and fans, Portland Timber’s owner Merrit Paulson joined the celebrations by doing something we are promised is close to dancing. Finally Portland got their perfect night.
The log trophies are handed out, Maxi holds a baby and commissions Paparatto to lift his log, Gaston gets also some special help. Kwarsey gives goal keeper’s coach Mike Toshack his as it is his last night at Providence Park, he will be leaving to be the soccer head coach for St. Lawrence University and the fans gave him an emotive farewell salute, chanting “Thank you Toshack!”.
