SEATTLE — Sounders FC forward Obafemi Martins played a role in both goals to lead his side to an important 2-1 win over the Portland Timbers (11-9-7, 40 points) in front of 64,358 fans. With the victory, Seattle (12-13-2, 38 points) moved up to the sixth place in the West and is now tied with the San Jose Earthquakes.
Despite the loss, Portland remains tied for third with Sporting KC. The Timbers unleashed 20 shots in an attempt to walk away with a point or more in their race to secure a place in the postseason.
Six minutes into the match Martins outmuscled Portland defenders Alvas Powell and Nat Borchers for his 10th goal of the year and a 1-0 lead. Both Nelson Valdez and Brad Evans deserved credit to keep the ball alive inside the 18-yard box. Their persistence allowed Martins to showcase his own agility and strength to notch the first goal of the game.
With five minutes left in the half, Seattle defender Tyrone Mears lofted a long pass to a streaking Martins. Portland keeper Adam Kwarasey was called for a foul for impeding the Seattle striker’s progress inside the box. Referee Alan Kelly pointed to the penalty spot despite the Timbers’ protest. Evans stepped up to take the penalty and placed his shot inside the left post and 2-0 Seattle lead.
Seattle keeper Stefan Frei made three stops in the first half to frustrate Portland. Frei’s highlights included thwarting Jack Jewsbury’s header with a reaction save in the 18th minute. Seven minutes later, the Sounders FC stopper dropped his right hand to prevent Lucas Melano’s one-on-one scoring opportunity.
Jewsbury put the Timbers on the board in the 58th minute to reduce Seattle’s advantage to one. Diego Valeri’s corner kick eluded several Seattle defenders and landed at Jewsbury’s feet. He made a swift redirection to send the ball into the net for his third of the year and a 2-1 score.
The Timbers continued to pressure Seattle the rest of the match. Frei and his defenders managed to hang for an all-important three points.
Next Saturday, the Sounders host Toronto FC, while Portland returns home for a midweek matchup against Sporting KC on Sept. 9.
