—by Garrett Dittfurth

Take this as a moment where I'm struck by something and I need to post about it type of thing.

Sometimes I wonder that there might be a misconception that some people make a profit off the Timbers Army. That idea couldn't be further from the truth.

Years before the Portland Timbers had an owner willing to drop the words Major League Soccer there were people out there promoting the team on their own. At points during the USL stage of the Timbers the only way to get something with the name Timbers on it was to buy it from someone who designed and paid for it themselves because the team was owned by a bunch of people that thought AAA baseball was the path to big bucks in Portland.

Those days are over. You can get tons of awesome stuff from the team now. Get that amazing third kit while you still can. Their stuff is awesome and we encourage you to check it out.

Yes we do have our own independent merchandise store. You've probably purchased something from the No Pity Van. Do you like tifo? Were you a fan of the "King of Clubs" banner at the Seattle match or the "It Takes an Army to Raise a Club" banners for the opener last year?

To do things like this it costs tens of thousands of dollars. We aren't given the tens of thousands of dollars it costs to make those banners from Major League Soccer or the Portland Timbers. It all comes through you, your memberships to 107ist? or that t-shirt you bought at the No Pity Van. In addition 107ist uses the funds from the No Pity Van to fund things like Harper's Playground.

The people that work on merchandise for the Timbers Army do it without much love. That's why I'm posting this. Every single one of them does this on volunteer hours for no money so that we all can reap the benefits through awesome tifo displays in the stadium and amazing community outreach to our city through efforts like Harper's Playground. The merch guys are often forgotten but their creativity and heartfelt donation of their time and energy to support the team, town and TA should be celebrated. So next time you're out and about and see one of those guys you know designed something, stood in front of a van for hours for no money, or made an awesome video thank them. Those people are what makes Portland great and what makes supporting the Timbers amazing. If you see a shot of banners in the crowd that's paid for by our merch fund. Videos of smoke...the smoke is paid for by our merch fund. Videos of awesome tifo banners...the tifo is paid for by our merch fund. Here's an awesome video a bunch of people our merch team made that you should love. All of this is made for love of the club and support by people like YOU!

—by Chris Rifer

The views expressed here are the views of the author alone, and do not necessarily represent the views of 107ist or the Timbers Army.

My Dearest Portland Timbers Football Club,

It’s funny sometimes how the silliest things can elicit the strangest reactions from people. On Tuesday, Geoffrey C. Arnold posted a story on Oregonlive about how it’s tough to play under the expectations here in Portland. The story featured several quotes from Lovel Palmer and Troy Perkins, as well as one from John Spencer. My immediate reaction was frustration. I didn’t read the story that carefully, but something about it struck a chord.[1]

Initially, I didn’t like a quote from Perkins which ended a story about his days in D.C. with “It is what it is and it doesn’t matter about [the fans].” After thinking about this, though, my first reaction was wrong. Those brackets are probably pretty important, and, in the context of a previous contradictory Perkins quote, this was probably either a matter of something coming out wrong or being reported wrong. So, that’s not really what struck the chord. Very clearly Troy Perkins doesn’t think the fans don’t matter.

Then there was this from John Spencer: “It's a very difficult place to play. The fans think that just because you have a world-class atmosphere, you're supposed to have a world-class team. But it takes time to build a quality team.” This is the one that got to me, but why?

Well, first off, it’s wrong. On a few levels. For one, Portland is absolutely, positively not a difficult place to play professional soccer. Yes, we have people on the internet who comment on the team, for better and for worse. We write on Twitter, and Facebook, and websites. And you know what? It’s all pretty tame stuff. Sure, it’s a lot compared to, say, Chivas USA, but it’s nothing compared to the rest of the world of soccer. Like, I mean, really nothing.

You want external pressure on playing professional soccer? Well, I seem to remember a story about a certain young boy whose family was threatened because he signed with what some thought was the wrong team. That’s pressure. The stuff that’s said on Twitter, or Stumptown Footy, or Timbers Insider, or – especially – here? That’s not pressure. Compared to the world of soccer, on a scale of one to ten, the pressure here is maybe a one-and-a-half.

Then there’s the whole being recognized out-on-the-town sort of pressure. Portlanders are known for our sheepish politeness. On Monday I met a friend at an all-too-swanky Pearl District coffee shop to watch City-United. The place had a dozen or so folks there to watch the match. Clearly soccer fans, and considering it was noon on a Monday, probably pretty big ones. At halftime Mike Chabala and Rod Wallace walked in. Guess how many autograph seekers interrupted them at their TV-side table. Guess how many people went up to talk to them about how the team was playing. You got it; not a one. Instead, the two of them sat there watching the match and sharing a pair of headphones. It was adorable. Not exactly a pressure cooker, either.

Then there’s the-fans-really-care-about-us sort of pressure. Yeah, we stand in the North End, 5,000 strong, and sing until we can’t anymore. Yeah, we sell out our beautiful downtown stadium. And yeah, we care about how the team does. If that’s the kind of thing that makes Portland a hard place to play, well, then I’m incredulous.

And here’s the other thing about Spenny’s quote there: I don’t think it accurately portrays the expectancy here in Portland. Spencer said the fans expect excellence. Don’t get me wrong, we all want excellence. We want MLS Cups, and U.S. Open Cups, and Cascadia Cups, and Champions League titles. But if we truly expected it – if we required that sort of payoff to keep us coming through the gates – let’s face it, you wouldn’t be reading this right now and I wouldn’t be writing it.

We do, however, expect that the club care as much about itself as we do about it. That’s why people like Ryan Pore and Mandjou Keita (the 2009 version) are good players who we appreciate, but folks like Ian Joy and Scot with one “T” are absolute legends. The former were good players who – at one point or another – demonstrated excellence in a Timbers uniform. The latter are guys who embodied the club and its supporters, and would give absolutely everything they had for our team, the mighty PTFC.

But Spencer being wrong isn’t what got to me, either. He’s been wrong before and I didn’t get as frustrated as I did about this quote.

Here’s what did: pity. If I had to choose one word to sum up the last couple months, that would be it. Pity.

Every time something goes awry on the field, that’s what we see. Against New England, when Saer Sene stunned the Timbers in the first minute? Pity.

Against RSL, when the Timbers conceded the equalizer in the 89^th minute? Heads dropped, and they conceded another goal. Pity.

Against Chivas USA, when the Timbers endured a rough start to the second half and Alejandro Moreno pulled the Goats level? Pity.

Against Los Angeles, when Kris Boyd was wrongfully disallowed a Goal of the Year candidate? Pity. When Juninho struck from distance? Pity. When Beckham put the nail in the coffin? Pity.

And then Saturday, when Perkins got kicked in the face and only a yellow card was issued? Pity. When Steven Smith was harshly whistled for a penalty? Pity.

So on Tuesday, when I saw John Spencer talking about how difficult it was to play in Portland, you know what I thought? Pity.

That’s what got to me. I’m tired of the pity party. I’m tired of something bad happening and the team going Eeyore on us.

Did you notice what L.A. did after Boyd scored that opener? They didn’t hang their heads. They went Lou Piniella on the linesman despite the fact Boyd was obviously onside. If you don’t think that had something to do with the flag going up three minutes later, I got a Sellwood Bridge I’d like to sell you. Point is, they did something about it. They fought back.

That’s what I want to see from the Timbers. That’s why the win against SKC felt so good. And that’s why my single favorite moment of last Saturday morning was Kris Boyd getting booked for dissent. For once I felt like somebody didn’t just feel sorry for himself.

If Portland comes out on Saturday, plays a lifeless 90 minutes, and concedes twice in the last ten minutes to lose, I’ll go home hoarse, hang my scarf over my closet door, write a critical match report, and get ready to watch the Houston game. And then Chicago. And then Vancouver.  You know what? So will everybody else reading this, because that’s who we are. We stand by our club through it all.

We’ll just be doing it more happily when the team is showing the same desire for the club that the Army does every match.

I hope that expectation doesn’t make it too difficult to play in Portland.

No Pity,

Chris

—by Sherrilynn "Sheba" Rawson

Do you have experience coaching youth soccer? Are you a current soccer player and want to think about coaching? Do you want to contribute to the local refugee community? Don't have enough time for a full time coaching gig? Do you want to represent the Timbers Army for an amazing cause?

4 Worlds United Soccer Alliance (4WUSA) is announcing a coaching clinic and youth academy, and is putting out a call for quality volunteers. Volunteers should be able to pass a background check (handled by 4WUSA), attend the May 19 session, and 3 or more of the youth clinics. This is essentially a once a month commitment unless you can spare more time.

Contact:

All coaches who are interested in being part of the 4WUSA academy team should contact Delaney Miller at delaney@delaneymillerlaw.com, or call 971-344-1441.

Please include a bit about your soccer coaching and/or soccer experience.

Also, mention that you're part of the Timbers Army! We want good representation! PM David Wagoner or post below if you have any questions, and post below if you sign up!

Dates:

Saturday, May 19, 10-10:45am - Mandatory coaches clinic/orientation (45min)

Saturdays, May 26 thru August 18 10:15-11:45am- Youth academy happens weekly. One week off Saturday July 7. Please plan on showing up to at least 3 of these sessions.

At least 2 days prior to the session, each coach will receive an email with an academy agenda outlining how the session will be run.

Location:

Kenilworth City Park, SE 34th Ave & Holgate Blvd, Across from Grout Elementary map

Academy Goals:

4WUSA’s youth academy is designed to prepare players in our program for club tryouts. We will be working primarily with children ages 9-12, although effort will be made to accommodate players outside of this age range who are interested in the program. The academy will primarily focus on developing basic soccer skills, then moving on to more advanced techniques and introducing players to team tactics.

Expectations:

Each coach is expected to attend a 45 minute coaches’ orientation/training on Saturday, May 19 at 10 am at Kenilworth Park and to attend at least 3 of the 12 academy sessions. 4WUSA plans on having a panel of 20 coaches, with at least 5 coaches at every academy session. With this system in place, each coach will only be required to attend once every 4 weeks. Coaches are encouraged to attend more academy sessions if they wish, but it is not required.

Background check:

As the 4WUSA youth academy obviously involves working with children, all coaches will need to submit to and pass a background check before they will be allowed to interact with 4WUSA players. 4WUSA will make arrangements to perform the background check.

4WUSA’s mission is to “Enhance the lives of 4th World Children by providing opportunities that improve soccer skills, build confidence, support their education, and unite communities and cultures.” The academy is part of this mission because it is the first step in building the skills that 4WUSA players will need.

Sign up deadline is May 17th Contact Delaney Miller at delaney@delaneymillerlaw.com and sign up today!

—by Chris Rifer

It has been 247 plus minutes of soccer since a Timber put the ball into the back of the net. If the match against Sporting KC represented a step forward, the Timbers fell off a cliff in Montreal.

Promising the same lineup he played against Kansas City, John Spencer got exactly what he bargained for—disaster.

The usually meek Impact were on their front foot from the opening whistle. In the 14^th minute, Justin Mapp beat Steve Purdy and Darlington Nagbe to the byline before sending the ball to Davy Arnaud at the top of the six yard box. Arnaud’s skied his tap-in effort over the bar, however, sparing the Timbers an early concession.

For the most part the first half continued to be one-way traffic, as Montreal created a series of half chances past a Timbers defense that was competent, but far from certain.

The 38^th minute brought Portland’s only legitimate chance of the first half, as a long run from the left wing through the middle of the field by Nagbe set up Jack Jewsbury at the right corner of the box. Jewsbury’s first time effort with the wrong foot, however, was saved in the middle of the goal by Impact keeper Donovan Ricketts.

Ultimately, the Timbers were lucky to escape into halftime level. They came out of the locker room to more of the same. Montreal reestablished their control over the run of play in the first fifteen minutes of the second half; controlling the ball, and keeping the Timbers from any bona fide chances.

In the 61^st minute, however, the Timbers looked like they might be poised to turn the tide. After the ineffective Jorge Perlaza was lifted in favor of Franck Songo’o—moving Nagbe up front—Portland briefly looked like the more dangerous side on the pitch. Very briefly.

In the 63^rd minute, Troy Perkins—and the Timbers’ chances—took a kick to the face. Sanna Nyassi outran Hanyer Mosquera to a long ball, but Troy Perkins arrived just in time to gather the ball at the top of the box. He also arrived just in time to be struck in the face by Nyassi’s raised studs.

With Perkins out of the match, the Timbers were forced to turn to rookie Joe Bendik at keeper. His defense wouldn’t do him any favors.

After Bendik saved a corner with his face—a bit of a theme for Portland keepers on Saturday—a Matteo Ferrari goal off the second ball was called off for offside.

Three minutes later, Portland’s luck would run out. After former Portland Pilot Collen Warner struck a ball from 10 yards out, newly-signed left back Steven Smith slid to block the ball. The ball hit his leg, and bounced up and struck his left arm. The referee awarded a penalty, which Bernardo Corradi put away.

Portland made a couple half hearted efforts to equalize, but never seriously threatened to grind out a point. What little hope persisted was extinguished in the 84^th minute. After Corradi took a goal kick from Ricketts, he found Arnaud on the left wing. Arnaud skidded a ball across the top of the six, under an outstretched Bendik, to an unmarked Sinisa Ubiparipovic who tapped the ball home.

The script was all too familiar. Two goals conceded after the 75^th minute for the third time this season. That would be a bad statistic if it were written in a season recap in November. It’s April—although it’s feeling a little bit like Groundhog Day.

Match Observations

• The handball call was unfortunate, but ultimately not incorrect.[1] Generally, a handball in the box shouldn’t be awarded if it was purely incidental and did not affect the play. To be sure, Smith didn’t intend to handle the ball, but his arm dramatically changed the course of the play—likely to the Timbers benefit. Certainly worse handballs in the box have gone uncalled—indeed, some against the Timbers – but in the end the play was unfortunate, not unjust.
• The Timbers’ offensive impotence is no coincidence. Portland’s tactical shift against the Wiz was widely and correctly lauded as a cause of the Timbers’ upset victory. If it goes on for much longer, it will be the cause of the Timbers undoing. By taking Darlington Nagbe and, to a lesser extent, Diego Chara out of the center of the field, John Spencer has neutered the Timbers attack that scored six goals in its first four matches. While the combination of Jack Jewsbury and Lovel Palmer in the center of the pitch has marginally improved the defense, it leaves the Timbers attack completely devoid of ideas, and sets Kris Boyd on an island. The result is an offense that leaves a mistake-prone defense no room for error. In other words, near-certain failure.
• The pitch may have been poor, but the Timbers would have lost this game if it were played at Wembley. Not worth talking about.

Timbers Grades

Troy Perkins, 5.5 Was fine until he got kicked in the face. Made a nice save on a Felipe strike from distance, but was otherwise untested by some wasteful finishing by Montreal.

Steven Smith, 5 Had an up and down debut. Had some decent moments in defense—ironically including the play that led to the unlucky handball—and showed some quality on set pieces. Still, looked a step slow and got beat a couple times. The early verdict is that he’s a modest improvement over Chabala and Wallace.

Eric Brunner, 6 After a little bit of a slow start to the season, Brunner is showing what made him one of the most underrated defenders in the league last year. It’s just hard not to feel bad for he and Mosco, as they’re repeatedly finding themselves having to clean up the fullbacks’ messes.

Hanyer Mosquera, 5.5 Didn’t have quite the day Brunner had in the middle, but was still plenty effective. Everything that Montreal created came off a breakdown on the wing or a strike from distance. That’s indicative of some decent central defending.

Steve Purdy, 3.5 His short-lived performance was pretty poor. Not only did he fail to bottle up Mapp, but he looks downright dodgy on the ball. Multiple times in the past three games he has received the ball and been absolutely deer in the headlights. Was the Lovel Palmer era worse than this? I immediately regret asking that question.

Lovel Palmer, 5 Had moments on Saturday when he was the Timbers’ most composed and effective player in the center of the field.[2] Would have received a higher score but for his partial culpability on the second concession. That was classic Lovel; a very, very casual attempt to mark an attacker leading to an easy goal.

Diego Chara, 4.5 Again, pretty good defensively. The Timbers don’t have anybody better—and there aren’t that many people in the League better—than Diego at winning possession back in the midfield. That said, Diego was almost completely ineffective going forward.

Jack Jewsbury, 3 I was one of the last holdouts that thought Jack should stay in the XI. I would happily be wrong about this, but it looks like he’s done.

Darlington Nagbe, 6 Got isolated on the wing at times, but when he was able to get central Darlington was pretty good. Nagbe was the Timbers’ most dangerous player on Saturday by miles.

Jorge Perlaza, 3 Ineffective. Hard to justify his presence in the XI over Songo’o or Alexander.

Kris Boyd, 3.5 Not entirely his fault, but he was also ineffective. When Boyd is having to consistently come deep into the midfield to receive the ball, you’re in trouble.

Freddie Braun, 3.5 Simply in over his head defensively. He does provide much more going forward than Purdy or Palmer, although that’s not the highest standard in the world.

Franck Songo’o, 4.5 Looked decent on the ball, but struggled to link up with his teammates. To be honest, he looks like a guy that struggles coming off the bench. At this point, I would like to see Franck in the XI. He needs more time on the field to develop chemistry in the attack. I’m not sure it’s going to work, but if moving Lovel Palmer into the midfield was worth a try, this certainly is, too.

Joe Bendik, 4 Absolutely impossible situation for the youngster. Should have smothered the cross on the second concession, but was otherwise okay.

Preseason Prediction: Timbers 0, Impact 0.

Actual Result: Impact 2, Timbers 0.

Onward, Rose City.

Welcome to our weekly look inside the collective of Timbers Army Football Clubs.  If you have any interest in the weekly happenings or upcoming fixture dates, you can always visit the Timbers Army main page. Under the 107ist menu, click on the Timbers Army FC link and you’ll see the main page.  This lists the current clubs that are playing, plus lists those that will be joining the happy family soon.  Here’s a recap by club of current events.

101^st FC submitted match reports for their last two matches, a loss to Trick Pony with a large number on one side followed up by a thrilling 9 to 8 win over Grant Old Boyz.  The 101^st FC was struggling with a long layoff in the schedule similar to some of their outdoor brethren, but they mounted a wild comeback to get a win for the week.  They have their final fixture on May 3 versus Urban Honking FC in a late Sunday evening match.

We didn’t receive a report from AC Loco Moco on their matchup with Fridjes Refritos, so either they had a good match or those puppets from TeamAmerica finally got to them.  They also get a bit of a break in their fixtures, as they next play on May 5 at Portland Indoor Soccer. We hope to hear more from our indoor club next week in revisiting both matches.

Cascade Rangers FC had another TAFC derby on their schedule as they met up with Rose City Athletic at the now infamous Old Oregon City High School pitch.  We didn’t get a report from Jerry to give the CRFC perspective, but Rob from RCA reported a 5 to 0 win for RCA that apparently was much closer than the final score indicated.  The boys in red scored a single goal in the first half despite plenty of pressure, but CRFC showed some improved defense to keep the score at one.  Unfortunately, RCA scored four in the second half behind a hat trick for Ed Ramirez and goals from Bryan Boen and Zack Skinner.  Apparently, both clubs enjoyed some post match pints as a sign of sportsmanship, which was good to hear about.  Cascade Rangers FC face their old foes,South VN, at LaSalle HS in a rare Saturday night match on April 28 while RCA meets the Fiji Islanders at the same location earlier in the day.

Coat? FC finished their Futsal season for Spring with a 7 to 6 win over Calling Dinosaurs FC. I’m sorry that we didn’t get more reports from them about matches, but hope to share more as their adventures continue.  Based upon previous sessions, there could be a second session of matches forthcoming, so look to this page for more details.

Both Division 1 sides, FC Dynamo and FC Portlandia didn’t submit match reports in time for inclusion either, but we did get official scores from the league. FC Dynamo lost a heartbreaker to North End 1 to 0 while FC Portlandia absorbed a 3 to 1 loss to Abysinnia. Both clubs are in action on Saturday at Gladstone HS, as FC Dynamo meets Salsa Azul at 6 PM while FC Portlandia entertains Portland Internationals earlier in the day. We hope to have official recaps for you all with next week’s report.

North End United was unable to complete a report in time either, but they did list their score this week as a 2 to 1 loss to the Fiji Islanders atSynderPark.  While Rueben Wilson logged their only goal, the boys in black were unable to stop the Fijians on this day.  We hope to hear more about this match next time, while NEU prepares for their next match on April 29 at Gladstone HS when they meetBroken Arrow.

Northern Alliance FC met up with Electric Dream Machine at Old Oregon City High School, which apparently is now known as a field of horrors.  This week’s match didn’t feature any delays in the start, and NAFC got some great news that some of their players weren’t as injured as originally thought, but they were also without some key players unexpectedly.  Despite the challenges, NAFC fought to a well earned 3 all draw as Johnathon Davidson scored a brace and Jacob Morr notched a goal. Davidson now leads the team with 3 goals, and hopefully the offensive onslaught continues this weekend as they meet MayDay on April 29 at SnyderPark.

Old Growth FC finally resumed their schedule after a lengthy delay in matches.  After playing in soupy conditions on a rutted pitch, the team was pleased to arrive at LaSalle High School on April 22 under gorgeous conditions and a full compliment of players.  The optimism was tested as their orange clad opponents, Tug and Whistle, put on a dazzling display of give and go soccer that ran OGFC around quite a bit.  Yes, folks, the scoreline wasn’t pretty, but OGFC kept their composure and played well under the circumstances.  They play their next match on April 29 at the field of horrors against FC 77 Hiberian, and recently announced a May 12 scheduled friendly against Cascade Rangers FC at a location to be determined.

Everyone knows that if you want to be Timbers Army, you already are. Many of us are Timbers Army across the United States and beyond, whether with the Timbers Army Texas Rangers, the New York City Loggers, or even if you're an army of one in exile.

We know how much you love the Timbers, and how you'd love to have the opportunity to see them in person for a derby match at JELD WEN field. Well, now's your chance.

If you live outside of Oregon and Washington, you have an opportunity to win a FREE round trip ticket to Portland from anywhere Alaska Airlines or Horizon Air flies for the May 26th match against the Vancouver Whitecaps.

Alaska Airlines has provided eight round trip travel vouchers; any 107IST member who lives outside of Oregon and Washington is invited to enter to win! Eight out-of-town 107IST folks will get FREE round trip airfare from anywhere Alaska Airlines or Horizon Air flies, along with a match ticket in the Timbers Army section. We'll fly you in for the derby match on May 26th against the Vancouver Whitecaps. Accommodations are your responsibility, but if you can get to somewhere Alaska Airlines or Horizon Air flies, we'll get you here for the match and back. NOTE: this contest is open to 107IST members only, and only those who live outside of Oregon and Washington.

Not a 107IST member yet? Well, now's your chance to sign up. Become a part of the engine that drives the Timbers Army, and throw your name in the hat for a chance at a free round trip to Portland!

Click here to sign up or renew today.

Once you are a 107IST member, you are eligible to enter.

Entries are now closed; winners will be drawn May 9th and announced after their ability to use the vouchers and tickets has been confirmed.

Drawing will be held on May 9th. Note that the travel vouchers are good only from departure locations served by Alaska Airlines or Horizon Air.

We know you're Rose City Til You Die, but you shouldn't have to wait that long to actually VISIT the Rose City to cheer on the boys in green. Deadline for all entries is 11:00 PM May 8th. Enter to win today!

—by Andrew Brawley

I’m just gonna start by stating the obvious: I’m not a fan of Montreal. I don’t mean the team. I mean the city. I’ve been there twice, and each time sucked. The closest I’ve ever come to a legit fist-fight was in this town. I’m not sure what the deal is, but Montreal and I are 0 for 2. In fact, I can pretty much do without most of the entire province of Québec. A famous insult comic and I share the same opinion on this issue.

Because of this unfortunate situation, I’ve deferred all input for this travel guide to someone who knows the city well. He’s Canadian. He speaks French (as most Canadians do, thanks to socialist education and dual-language laws). While born in Vancouver, he spent many years (including the formative college ones) back east among the Québécois. Oh yeah, he produced a few records you might’ve heard.

Here’s punk rock producer superstar Steve Kravac’s guide to Montreal.

 

Best dive bar: St-Laurent Bifteck

This is the formerly-punk-rock-now-hipster hangout on what we call “the main,” or St. Laurent Street. Always cheap. Be sure to try a pitcher of the local (not so micro) brew Boreale. It's a mainly English speaking hang.

Best Smoked Meat Sandwiches: Schwartz’s Montreal Hebrew Delicatessen

The smoked meat on rye sandwich is the cornerstone of Montreal dining. Schwartz's deli serves the quintessential version. Celine Dion is buying the place. Hopefully she leaves everything as is and goes back to Vegas.

Best Cheap Breakfast: Dusty’s

Dusty's serves up the amazing breakfast and the fresh squeezed orange juice is awesome. Love the home fries! Perfect to nurse your hangover.

Best Bagel: St-Viateur Bagel

Bagels fresh from a wood fired oven 24 hours a day, 7 days week. What could be better? These may be the best in North America.

The Northern Alliance is putting on a viewing party/fundraiser at Mill Creek Pub in Battle Ground, WA for the May 15th match vs. Houston to benefit youth in Peru. The "Support a Soccer Ball" drive will be supporting fundraising efforts put on by the students at Orchards Elementary in NE Vancouver.

To summarize this March 29th article in the Columbian, the students from Orchards, one of the most impoverished schools in Clark County according to the State, have raised over $1,500 through two penny drives in the past year; this money has gone towards paying a month's rent for a school in Peru, buying books, and helping to feed the Peruvian youths, who often don't have a meal at home after school.

Want to know how to contribute? There are two ways: First, you can support the drive by sponsoring a soccer ball for $10, which will be given to the students at Orchards to send to Peru. Our goal is to sponsor 24 balls. Second, there will be a penny drive held during the viewing. Everybody has extra pennies laying around (heck, I have a ton in my car, where they have absolutely no use!), so why not donate them to a great cause: education and food for needy children. 12 cents will pay for a single meal for these students.

The Northern Alliance invites you to come early and have dinner before the match! Mill Creek Pub offers a 15% discount to 107ist members, and also is providing 15% of sales to the Northern Alliance General Fund, which supports various causes north of the river.

—by Andrew Brawley

It had to happen at some point. In fact, it’s happened before. A one-time Sounders player is suddenly found wearing a Timbers uniform. And vice-versa. While the United States is quite large compared to other soccer-playing nations, when it comes to the number of soccer players actively playing here per capita, it’s a pretty small talent pool to select from. So it was only a matter of time when someone would make the jump between the rival Cascadian cities. If you had money on the Timbers announcing the signing of former Sounders forward Mike Fucito on Friday, April 20, 2012 (via Montreal), congratulations, you’re a confirmed liar!

Reactions on my Twitter timeline ran the gamut: angered, excited, but most of all, confused. Don’t the Timbers already have enough forwards? (Obviously, this question was quickly answered by the soon-after announcement of Eddie Johnson’s retirement…the good one, but that’s another blog entry altogether.) Don’t the Timbers need more help on the back end? For a few hours on a Friday afternoon, Portland’s work production rate plummeted as they scratched their heads, completely distracted from the next day’s match against Sporting Kansas City. (Looking back, the distraction wasn’t completely unwelcomed.)

All of the sudden, both Timbers and Sounders fans found themselves dealing with the way-too-sudden reality of players playing on both teams during their MLS careers. This was one of the few times when both sets of fans were on mostly common ground with respect to dealing with such an ordeal.

NOTE: to the outsiders who might be reading this and thinking it’s completely ridiculous to make such a big deal about players moving between Portland and Seattle, I’d like to introduce you to something called sports. Some of them are even on TV, which you probably don’t even have. Go back to your scholarly journals and let us air this one out!

In order to come to grips with this, we should examine the individual player’s career performance, not just for the opposing team in question, but more specifically, their performance against our own team. Since I’m not the type to spend my free time sifting through sports statistics, I requested the help of local Timbers writer / podcaster Mike Donovan. Here’s what he found:

# of minutes played in MLS competitions: 1,071 (not including 129 playoff minutes)

# of goals scored in MLS competitions: 4

# of minutes played in Open Cup competitions: 193

# of goals scored in Open Cup competitions: 2

# of minutes played in CONCACAF competitions: 397

# of goals scored in CONCACAF competitions: 5

# of minutes played against the Timbers (regardless of MLS / USL / Open Cup, etc.): 0

# of goals scored against the Timbers: 0

# of fouls committed against the Timbers: 0

# of jerkwad goal celebrations in front of / toward the TA: 0

According to Donovan, “Fucito has never played against the Timbers in any official match. He did, however, play 73 minutes last year for the Sounder Reserves vs. the Timbers Reserves at Starfire. He also played 10 minutes in last year's 2-0 Timbers win during the Cascadia Summit. He didn't score or get a card in either appearance."

Not bad on the stats, if I do say so myself. Looks to me like nothing but positives for the Timbers that could also help create negatives for the Sounders down the road. Let’s also examine a few other items of note:

Fucito was a fan favorite in Seattle. They were pissed when Montreal acquired Fucito and Lamar Neagle in exchange for Eddie Johnson (the bad one). Both were considered fan favorites before being shipped off. If Seattle fans were pissed then, they were irate on Friday afternoon when news of Fucito wearing a better shade of green hit the newswire. Seattle's misery is Portland's joy.

Also, as if the two Timbers-Sounders derby matches taking place at JELD-WEN Field in 2012 needed more heat this year, well…they got it. Can you imagine the scene if Fucito scores against his old team? Think about that for a second. Twitter timelines across Portland could be jammed for seconds…nay, dare I say, MINUTES!!

Fucito also attended Harvard University. We like smart people here in Portland (contrary to my statement above about scholarly journals. Apologies.).

Finally, reports came out over the weekend that Seattle couldn’t reach a deal to get Fucito back from Montreal. The way I understand it, the Timbers got Fucito in exchange for either the Timbers’ highest 2^nd round draft pick in 2013, or a 2013 international roster spot, depending on his 2012 performance. Call me crazy, but that looks to me like the Timbers got Fucito on the cheap. Am I to believe that Seattle couldn’t give up at least that much to acquire a fan favorite that would require next to zero time for re-acclimation to the city and the team’s playing style? If I were a Seattle fan (which, according to some people, I am), I would be furious about this part most of all.

This scenario reminds a bit of The Mighty Ducks, where the star player for the evil team of rich kids suddenly found himself playing for the good guys through no fault of his own. Over time, he triumphed over adversity and found his way into hearts of teammates and fans alike.

OK, so it might not be as dramatic as a Disney movie, but I think you see what I’m getting at here. Fucito’s a good player, and is clearly more than able to make solid contributions toward the Timbers’ overall aspirations. I see no valid reason for us to be questioning where his loyalties may lie, especially when his old team didn't pony up for him. He’s now a Timber, and he should be respected and treated as one. Let’s put on the daddy pants and be a big boy about this, mmm-kay?

Now if Levesque ever becomes a Timber (again), all bets are off. Cuz seriously, screw that guy!

Mike Donovan writes for OregonSports.com, and co-hosts No Pity City. He’s also pretty good on Twitter.

This is an opinion piece and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the 107ist or the TA.

—by Chris Rifer

Midweek John Spencer said he would happily take an ugly three points out of the match against Sporting KC. He got his wish.

On Saturday night the Portland Timbers kicked, scratched, and gouged their way to one of the most significant—if ugliest—wins since promotion to MLS a year ago.

The Timbers opened the match with a nice spell of possession in the first few minutes, but ultimately couldn’t make anything noteworthy of it.

Sporting looked to have what Portland lacked in danger in the final third, as in the 9^th minute C.J. Sapong beat Hanyer Mosquera on the byline, and sent a ball to Kai Kamara 10 yards out from the mouth of the goal. Troy Perkins was perfectly positioned, however, to smother Kamara’s shot and end the danger.

From there the chances were scarce, as the side started kicking the ball—and each other—around the midfield. The Wiz managed to put Troy Perkins to work once, as Graham Zusi sent a nicely placed 23^rd minute set piece toward the far upper 90, but Perkins calmly tapped over the bar.

In a tight match like Saturday, though, 90 minutes of labor can be undone by one moment of fleeting concentration. For once, it wasn’t the Timbers learning that lesson.

After Diego Chara found Kris Boyd on a run down the right wing, the Timbers’ talisman sent a ball to the far post to nobody in particular. As the ball floated through the air, the North End could see Chance Myers and Julio Cesar closing down the ball with no Timber within 10 yards. Surely they were just going to let the ball run through. There was no danger. Instead they converged with each other and the ball at the same time, knocking a harmless cross into the back of their own net.

The defense that had been stalwart for 40 minutes, and would be similarly dominant for 49 more, had suddenly made a mess of things in blooper reel fashion.

Coming out of the half, Portland—for the only time on Saturday night—looked poised to make a run at a second goal. After Darlington Nagbe and Diego Chara played a little give and go down the right side, the little Colombian sent an early ball into the box for Perlaza and Boyd. The ball ran by Perlaza, but Boyd got foot to it, only for Jimmy Neilsen to close down the shot and send it out for a corner.

For nearly 45 minutes, that was the end of the serious chances. Roger Espinoza and Kamara had efforts from distance, but neither seriously troubled the Timbers defense.

Then, in stoppage time, as the Army desperately sang the Timbers through the last ten minutes, the Portland defense looked for a split second like it was going to fumble away another result. A routine play was bobbled in the box, the ball bounded perilously toward the near post, but Hanyer Mosquera was there to clear off the line.

That was the moment for Portland to let this one slip away. And for the first time in 2012, the Timbers survived it.

The result—though aesthetically bankrupt—is of the kind that can turn a season around. For the first month of the 2012 campaign, Portland looked talented, but mentally weak. At times the soccer was beautiful stuff, but at the end of the day the Timbers would let the result slip away.

Not on Saturday. Portland ground out three massive points, and will take some desperately needed confidence on the road to Montreal.

Match Observations

• Where has that been? If Portland had shown a tenth of the grit they showed on Saturday in the matches against RSL, Chivas, New England, and Galaxy, Saturday would have been a matchup between two unbeatens.
• The talk before the match was about an XI that seemed to make no sense. Lovel Palmer started in the center of the midfield, Diego Chara and Darlington Nagbe manned the wings, and Eric Alexander and Franck Songo’o held down the bench. What seemed to be the workings of a madman ended up fitting the game perfectly. It was a lineup designed to ugly up the game by getting physical in the midfield and hoping the attacking talent left on the field could find one moment of magic. The strategy was bold, but it worked on Saturday. That said, never, ever do that again, Spenny.
• Take a look at the table today. Portland still sits in last place in the West on seven points, but is only three points out of fifth and four points out of third. The West is, and will stay, a huddled cluster of a conference. Portland’s bad start dug them a hole, but as the table shows, it’s far from insurmountable. Good results the next two weeks and Portland could very easily find itself sitting in playoff position by the first weekend in May. Now look at the East. Gracious.

Timbers Grades

Troy Perkins, 7 His defense was great in front of him, but Troy’s leadership and positioning kept things organized and kept SKC from making a serious bid at goal. Great save on Kamara early. The only criticism is that Perkins has had a little case of the dropsies in the early stages this year. Hopefully he gets that straightened out before it costs the Timbers a goal.

Mike Chabala, 8 I’m going to have to dust off the archives to find a gutsier performance from a Timber. His ankle was thoroughly messed up. He gimped his way through his halftime fitness test to the point that I was incredulous he was going back in.[1] Then he was very good defensively in the second half. Was his play itself worth an 8? No, probably not. But as supporters we ask the players to bleed for the shirt, and Chewie put in a historic performance in that regard. You can wear your pink pants to your heart’s content this week, Chewie. You’ve earned it. And would somebody buy this guy an appletini or something?

Eric Brunner, 7 Boy, oh boy this guy is happy to see Hanyer Mosquera back. Brunner—and the entire backline—looked light-years better than they have at any time in the season.

Hanyer Mosquera, 8 Mosco got turned around once in the 9^th minute, and it nearly cost Portland. From there he was flawless, including the match-saving clearance in second half stoppage. Gavin hasn’t hit on every foreign discovery, but this one looks like a home run.

Steve Purdy, 5 Purdy was fine, although not a whole lot more than that. Sometimes looked a little bit lost on defense, but the Timbers weren’t really punished for it. A few more crosses coming in from that right side than I would like to see, but overall a passable performance.

Diego Chara, 6.5 When I saw him lined up on the wing, I about blew a gasket. In his forays out wide this year Diego has looked terribly uncomfortable. He seemed to have it figured a little bit on Saturday, as he was typically nifty defensively and much, much better in the attack on the wing.

Lovel Palmer, 5 Okay, so he was fine. He took some maddening touches, but was properly positioned defensively and never screwed the pooch. If this was a situational placement in the lineup for John Spencer, I’ll go along reluctantly. But I can’t for the life of me figure out what Palmer has done to earn a spot in the XI over Eric Alexander or Franck Songo’o.

Jack Jewsbury, 6 It’s been a rough go for Captain Jack early on this season, but he was useful defensively and in disrupting things in the midfield. He looks a little bit more comfortable playing higher in the thick of things rather than sitting at the back of a diamond waiting for the opposing offense to come to him.

Darlington Nagbe, 6 Nice outing for Darlington. Had some nice moments in the first half combining with Jorge Perlaza that, but for a very good Sporting defense, could have led to some good chances.

Jorge Perlaza, 5 Made several good runs, and did some nice things for the offense, but clearly has no confidence going toward goal right now. He had a few opportunities to pull the trigger, but Jorge simply refused. I still think he’s getting traded.

Kris Boyd, 6.5 Normally if he doesn’t score a goal he’ll get graded down here, as that is virtually his sole purpose on the field. Aside from his cross that Myers and Julio Cesar made a mess of, Boyd had some nice moments winning balls in the midfield and even in defense – namely a huge block of a dangerous Sapong cross in the dying moments of the first half.

Freddie Braun, 5.5 Very interesting introduction at right back when Lovel Palmer was in the game at Braun’s natural central midfield position. Took on a monumental challenge in trying to handle a front line of Teal Bunbury, Kamara, and Sapong. While Freddie couldn’t shut that down—show me a right back in the league that could—he did well to harass Kamara enough to keep him from getting comfortable.

Eric Alexander, 5 Came on in the 84^th minute and didn’t really have much of a chance to make an impact. Shocked not to see him in the starting lineup.

Franck Songo’o, 6 In a very, very brief spell, did nicely to relieve the pressure on the Timbers defense by taking the ball into the attacking third. Didn’t make anything of it, but in second half stoppage, relieving that pressure is vital.

Preseason Prediction: Timbers 1, SKC 0. Perlaza (Songo’o).[2]

Actual Result: Timbers 1, SKC 0. Myers (OG).

Onward, Rose City!