Okay, yes. It was hot. Saturday’s game between the reigning MLS Champion Timbers and D.C. United was delayed by an hour due to excessive heat in the DC area.
But it was still hot.
A simple enough gameplan under these conditions? Score early and hold on. DCU did score early: Llyod Sam’s corner got just enough of a touch from Bobby Boswell to find Steve Birnbaum who put it away in the seventh minute.
Aug 13, 2016; Washington, DC, USA; Portland Timbers forward Lucas Melano (26) battles D.C. United defender Steve Birnbaum (15) for the ball during the first half at Robert F. Kennedy Memorial. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports
The visiting Timbers had a chance in the 26th minute when striker Jack McInerney had a clear look at goal. DC keeper Bill Hamid got a finger on it, sending the ball into the crossbar.
Luciano Acosta would notch a second for DCU in the 29th when Patrick Mullins tipped the ball to him and Acosta found his way in behind Portland’s backline.
Both sides had numerous chances (Acosta’s chip in the 31st, the Jack Barmby freekick in the 76th, at least three tries by Mullins), but keepers at both ends of the pitch played strong games, Hamid finishing with three saves and Gleeson with six.
Aug 13, 2016; Washington, DC, USA; Portland Timbers defender Alvas Powell (2) controls the ball as D.C. United midfielder Lamar Neagle (13) looks on during the second half at Robert F. Kennedy Memorial. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports
The end result was DCU’s first win since June’s 2-0 win over the New England Revolution. The Timbers are winless on the road in 2016 and will next travel to Seattle for a Cascadia Cup match August 21.
D. C. United
Portland
