This was the first time ever for these two clubs meeting on the field, since Inter Miami’s inception in MLS last season. With Miami looking to move up the table and be a contender for a playoff spot, this match had a lot of connotations for both sides.
The Portland Timbers were seeing their unbeaten streak in peril and for Miami looking to deliver an upset that could deliver three golden points and be within the postseason spots in the Eastern Conference.
With a squad filled with several notable players, headed by world-class player Gonzalo Higuain and Mexico’s international Rodolfo Pizarro to mention a few. This is a club considered pound per pound complete, but not playing to its potential.
Still, these Timbers don’t run or are intimidated by anyone. Displaying a top-class game, but a little on the disorganized side in the first half, the Timbers played more inspired in the second half.
Another not seeing Sebastian Blanco on the field from the start, but coming on in the second half, that brought some relief in the attendees. Very well seeing a defensive gem with a backfield ready and not intimidated by Higuain’s push and what could be a couple of goals.
It was the Rose City team that had a lot of initiative and players of the likes of Dairon Aspirilla and Yimmi Chara setting the tone in the offensive attack.
The highlight of the game came in the 68th minute when Sebastian Blanco came on for Marvin Loria and suddenly the Timbers’ attack was upgraded for the better when the Andean was on the field. Not even two minutes passed by when he hit the crossbar with a shot and later putting the ball on a platter for Aspirilla who couldn’t finalize on the play.
In the 83rd minute, Jaroslaw Niezgoda came on for Aspirilla, and with a class act header scored the game-winner on a corner taken by Sebastian Blanco to see the Timbers’ unbeaten streak reach eight.
Now for a two-week international break before the Timbers head to Tinsel Town and play the LA Galaxy on Saturday, October 16. By the way, kudos for Steve Clark’s amazing five saves today, the man is on fire.
Believe, Support, and Protect NWSL Players
Goals
Jaroslaw Niezgoda 83’ PTFC
Men of the Match
Jaroslaw Niezgoda and Steve Clark
Portland Timbers
Inter Miami
