Photo Credit Austin F.C.
Felipe Mora scoring his third goal of the season and Evander following with what became the go-ahead goal and scoring his eighth of the season led the Portland Timbers to an important win on the road as well in what was considered a big and crucial game for both Western Conference sides.
Ever since their win against St. Louis City SC back on April 29th, the Timbers had a slump of eight consecutive losses on the road and this win for sure uplifts the team’s overall confidence.
So far in the Miles Joseph era, the Timbers have a record of 3-1-1 and unbeaten in their last four as well scoring 10 goals in the last 5 matches. Tonight’s win moves the team up the ninth and last postseason spot with 36 points.
Despite their slow start and being dominated in possession with Austin averaging 66.6% over the visiting Rose City side with just 33.3%, the Timbers would make the most of theirs.
As Dairon Aspirilla using his experience and shaking off a couple of Austin defenders, he can be credited to starting the play for the opening goal scored by Mora in the first half.
Mora didn’t pass the opportunity to score his third goal of the season with a shot that beat Austin’s Brad Stuver in the 39th minute to put the Timbers ahead in the first half despite the host’s dominance and near shots at goal.
As the second half started the tables were turned in favor of Portland and not allowing Austin to become comfortable in their game and looking for a comeback in the score board, its when Portland went to work.
Being in the right place, Evander in play started by Yimmi Chara being in the perfect spot for him in the goalmouth after receiving a chested pass from Felipe Mora. Evander just ripped the ball with a shot past Brad Stuver.
This score became the go-ahead and game-winning goal and difference maker for the Portland Timbers making it 2-0 in the 64th minute of the game and earning a valuable win on the road under the Miles Joseph era.
Austin FC pulled one back in the 75th minute when Sebastian Druisi scored his ninth goal of the season.
In the end, for Austin FC their rally fell short and became dominated by the visitor’s defensive game.
With five games left in the season, the Portland Timbers have another Western Conference showdown against the San Jose Earthquakes in midweek at Providence Park.
My conclusion is that the Timbers aren’t allowing any of its foes lately to have any liberties on the field as well with the ball.
Goals
Felipe Mora 36’ POR, Evander 64’ POR, Sebastian Druisi 75’ ATX
Players of the Match
Evander, David Bingham and Felipe Mora
Next Match: San Jose Earthquakes on Wednesday September 20,2023 at 7:30 PM PST at Providence Park in Portland, Oregon
Portland Timbers
Austin FC
