—by Chris Rifer

Last week we looked at a few players who had a lot on the line in 2012. For Bright Dike, Freddie Braun, and David Horst, 2012 will prove crucial to determining whether they are borderline MLS players or can make an impact in the top flight.

The task for this week is to look at the Timbers unit-by-unit, and determine whether its stock has risen, stayed flat, or fallen from last October. For all intents and purposes, it appears as though the roster is relatively settled for the season. This past week, the Timbers officially inked Franck Songo’o. The additional signings of Joe Bendik, former Portland Pilot Ryan Kawulok, and Sebastián Rincón seem imminent, with Stumptown Footy reporting that all three were on the receiving end of a team hug fest at training last week.[1]

With Trencito on the DL, that puts the roster at 30 for the season. If Eddie Johnson is on the shelf long term, then the Timbers may have one more roster spot to play with, but in all likelihood the roster on March 12 will look similar to how it looks today.

So, considering the offseason transactions and the Ouija board-like predictor of preseason games, here is what each Timbers unit’s stock has done over the course of the offseason.

Goalkeepers: ◄►

Additions: Joe Bendik

Losses: Adin Brown

No surprise here. There was never any real question that Troy Perkins would be the starting keeper on March 12, that Jake Gleeson would likely find himself in the backup role, and a new third keeper would be brought in to replace Adin Brown. With Gleeson sidelined by injury – and heading out to play with the Kiwi National Team – Bendik has picked up a few more reps in preseason than anticipated. He seems to have made the most of it, as reports from training and preseason matches have been generally positive.

Center Backs: ▲

Additions: Hanyer Mosquera, Andrew Jean-Baptiste

Losses: Kevin Goldthwaite

With David Horst sidelined by a hip injury, there was some concern about this unit in early January. It only took a couple weeks for the market to turn more bullish on the center of the Timbers’ defense. Eric Brunner seems to have his spot on lockdown. The real competition will be between Futty and El Mosco for the second starting spot. Thus far, Futty seems to have been getting most of the run alongside Brunner, but don’t be surprised to see Mosquera mount more of a challenge as the preseason – and even regular season – wears along. As expected, Jean-Baptiste doesn’t appear to be challenging for first team playing time just yet, but he should get plenty of run in the reserves.[2]

Fullbacks: ◄►

Additions: Ryan Kawulok

Losses: None

By far the most disappointing unit of the offseason. I had this tapped as a very high priority for the offseason, but the result is largely status quo. Lovel Palmer, assuming his hamstring loosens up, will likely hold down the starting spot on the right side, while the less-than-inspiring competition between Rod Wallace and Mike Chabala continues on the left. It seems likely that Rod will be the opening day starter, and he certainly has the greatest potential at the position, but the options are still less than inspiring. Absent a big jump from Wallace, however, a group that was mediocre in 2011 seems destined for more of the same in 2012.

Central Midfielders: ◄►

Additions: None

Losses: None

The Timbers most stable unit in 2011 appears poised to be the same in 2012. The only thing that could change things is if James Marcelin’s development is as promising as the preseason has suggested. If Marcelin is poised for a big jump in 2012, this could be one of the deepest and most effective units in MLS.

Outside Midfielders: ▲

Additions: Franck Songo’o, Charles Renken

Losses: Ryan Pore, Rodrigo Lopez, Peter Lowry

Songo’o has gone from complete unknown among Timbers supporters to the inside track to start on the right wing. If his preseason form holds true in the regular season, Songo’o could end up being the Timbers most complete winger. Renken was an upside pick-up from the beginning, and there hasn’t been anything reported that would dispel such a label. So, Portland picked up one guy who could be an immediate impact player, and one guy who could be an impact player down the road, while losing three guys who weren’t pushing for first team minutes any time soon.[3]

Strikers: ▲

Additions: Kris Boyd, Jose Adolfo Valencia, Brent Richards, Sebastián Rincón

Losses: Kenny Cooper, Brian Umony

The only unit to lose a serious contributor also brought in the most. Kris Boyd – while still having never put on a Timbers kit – is the prohibitive favorite to be the Timbers’ number nine this year. He also appears to be an immediate upgrade over Kenny Cooper. While Trencito will likely be out all year, Richards and Rincón both seem to be high upside signings who will do well to have a year in the reserves to adjust to the MLS game. With a strikeforce that likely includes Boyd, Jorge Perlaza, Bright Dike, Richards, Rincón, and perhaps Darlington Nagbe, the Timbers look poised to blow the middling goal production of 2011 out of the water.

On the aggregate, then, the conclusion that the Timbers have improved over the course of the offseason is unavoidable. The attack looks to be much better than it was a year ago, and the defense should at least be similar.[4]

The Timbers only lost one player they relied heavily upon, Kenny Cooper,[5] and have added three guys – Boyd, Songo’o, and Mosquera – that seem likely to make an immediate impact in 2012. Nobody on the Timbers has shown signs of being past their expiration date, with really only one guy – Jack Jewsbury – even remotely approaching the point at which the twilight of his career would be expected. On top of that, the Timbers have brought in a gaggle of promising greenhorns that can develop while playing with a reserve side that suddenly looks pretty loaded.

All in all, not too shabby.

Notes

• Seattle has made some high-risk moves in the past, but perhaps nothing quite as reckless as trading Mike Fucito and Lamar Neagle to Montreal for an Eddie Johnson who hasn’t scored a competitive goal in nearly two years. Make no mistake, if Johnson can regain form this would be a good get for Seattle. That “if,” however, is way too big to justify sending away two very promising, very reasonably budgeted young players.
• The Brian Ching standoff came to a merciful end this week, as Montreal ended up caving and sending Ching back to Houston in exchange for a 2013 conditional SuperDraft pick.[6] Make no mistake, this is a terrible end for Montreal. They wasted a pick in a loaded Expansion Draft and ended up flipping it for a mid-to-late first round SuperDraft pick. While Jesse Marsch sounded surprised by the outcome, in reality it was inevitable. And give the Impact credit for one thing: they realized what an awful hand they dealt themselves and folded.
• Finally, we only have eight more days until the Preseason Tournament begins! I absolutely cannot wait to see everybody in The North End again.

Onward, Rose City!

PORTLAND, Oregon (15 February, 2012) - Soccer rivalries are known for their intensity, but leadership of soccer supporters groups from across the US and Canada set aside their rivalries last weekend in Portland, Oregon for the Independent Supporters Council (ISC) conference.

The ISC works to promote supporters’ culture in North America, and defend the rights of soccer supporters. Over the weekend, representatives of supporters of 16 of the 19 teams in Major League Soccer discussed issues facing supporters, and revised and ratified the Independent Supporters Council Charter, including the Supporters Bill of Rights.

“By speaking with a singular voice for all recognized supporters groups regarding issues that may be specific to one group, but that affect all, ISC can effectively use the collective leverage of all groups to protect the interests of each individual group,” said Jason Corliss board member of Red Bull New York's Viking Army SC.

“MLS is beginning to appreciate the role of supporters, and aren’t just marketing the game to soccer moms any longer. It’s a step in the right direction, but we want to make certain all supporters can safely and passionately follow their team wherever they travel,” said Abram Goldman-Armstrong, a founding member of the ISC and board member of the Timbers Army 107 Independent Supporters Trust, which hosted the conference in Portland.

ISC initiatives include:

Coordinating an annual ISC conference open to delegations of supporters from all clubs in the United States and Canada, including MLS, lower-league levels and women’s soccer

Tracking incidents and advocating for stadium security trained to understand supporter culture

Developing clear, consistent guidelines and fair ticket allocations for traveling supporters

Organizing the administration and funding of a new Supporters' Shield trophy

Advocating for an MLS schedule that is favorable to traveling fans, especially rivalry games

Working for the adoption of a league-wide Supporters’ Bill of Rights

Groups in attendance who ratified the charter:

• Los Angeles Galaxy (Angel City Brigade)
  
• Columbus (Hudson St. Hooligans)
  
• San Jose Earthquakes (Casbah)
  
• Real Salt Lake (Rogue Cavaliers Brigade)
  
• Vancouver Whitecaps (Southsiders)
  
• New York Red Bulls (Viking Army)
  
• New York Red Bulls (Empire Supporters Club)
  
• Chivas USA (Union Ultras)
  
• Chicago Fire (Section 8 Chicago ISA)
  
• Colorado Rapids (Pid Army)
  
• Colorado Rapids (Bulldog Supporters Group)
  
• New England (Midnight Riders)
  
• Portland Timbers (Timbers Army/107 Independent Supporters Trust)
  
• DC United (Screaming Eagles)
• Houston Dynamo (Texian Army)
  
• Toronto FC (Red Patch Boys)
  

ISC - The Independent Supporters Council was founded in 2009 to advocate for the fair treatment of home and away supporters, promote supporter culture, and oppose racism and bias in the stadium. www.soccersupporters.org

107ist - The 107 Independent Supporters Trust is the not-for-profit organization of the Timbers Army, dedicated to supporting soccer in and around Portland, Oregon, from the grassroots to the highest professional level. www.timbersarmy.org

—by Chris Rifer

Oh, the preseason. The time when as supporters we’re so starved for real soccer that we’ll read everything into anything. The Timbers beat Galaxy 4-1? PTFC is the team of destiny. Portland draws Montreal 0-0? It might be a long year on Morrison Street. Portland tops Houston 2-0? Everything is coming up roses.

In the end, the results mean nothing at all. Remember last year? The Timbers defense looked impenetrable throughout the preseason. The team went undefeated. Then the first half hour at Colorado happened.

So yeah, the point is, the results these next couple weeks mean painfully little. Still, we have to talk about something, right?

Over the next few weeks before meaningful soccer is played we will talk more about what this season means to the club. Unlike last year, this year comes with expectations. In many ways, 2012 is more important than 2011 for PTFC.

There are also a few players staring in the face of a massively important season personally. Here are a few who have a lot of chips on the table in 2012.

Freddie Braun

Impressed in the reserves in 2011, but never could consistently break into the eighteen. While it seems likely the experiment at right back is over, there is some opportunity as a defensive midfielder. Jack Jewsbury is 30. James Marcelin has done well as a Timber, but certainly hasn’t locked down a position as Captain Jack’s heir apparent.[1] Lance Davids is pedigreed, but has seemingly been quiet in the first week of his trial and would occupy a precious international roster spot.

At 23, however, Freddie’s developmental honeymoon is coming to a close. If he wants to establish himself at the MLS level he will have to make an impression early in 2012. Otherwise, Freddie may be headed out on loan to the second division. Once there, it’s a bit of a hill to climb to get back.

Bright Dike

Much like Freddie, at 25 there is a certain feeling of now-or-never for Bright. The season seems to be setting up well for him, though. After breaking through in 2010, and being thwarted by injury in 2011, there is a feeling that Dike only needs a chance to make a name for himself.

It looks like he is going to get it this year, as both Trencito and Eddie Johnson are likely out for lengthy periods of time with injuries. Dike’s best case scenario – barring further injuries to the strikeforce – is likely becoming a consistent substitute. Interestingly, what happens on the right wing may be the most important factor for Bright. If Darlington Nagbe takes up the starting spot on the right, then Bright would presumably occupy the third striker spot. In that case, he would get an awful lot of 70^th minute appearances.

If somebody else – Sal Zizzo or Franck Sango’o – lay claim to the right midfield, then the going gets tougher as Nagbe would likely move up front and Bright would have to battle Perlaza for the opportunity to become a super-sub. I’m not saying he couldn’t win that battle, but it would certainly be tough.

David Horst

This designation seems a little bit cruel considering he is injured, but he faces a mountain to climb to work his way back into the lineup. With Brunner, Mosquera, and Futty looking like they’re in fine form early on, and with the club putting a lot on the development of Andrew Jean-Baptiste, Horst is going to have to get healthy and get back in form quickly if he wants to preserve his spot in the team and the league.

David was a borderline MLS player before coming to Portland, with Real Salt Lake consistently loaning him out to the second division. In 2011, however, Horst seemed to put himself on surer footing by being a very dependable backup center back, including a near-herculean[2] performance at home against Chivas USA. The injury, coupled with the arrival of Mosquera and Jean-Baptiste, seemingly put Horst back on the ropes. Last year he established himself as a pretty rough and tumble guy, though, so it wouldn’t surprise me if we haven’t seen the last of David Horst.

Timbers Notes

• The injury to Eddie Johnson is tremendously disappointing. In a year filled with disappointment at striker, there were a couple times in 2011 where Eddie looked like he might be the lone pleasant surprise. And just as he was rounding into form, the concussions began. I really hope Eddie can recover and bounce back, but the team is taking this with the appropriate seriousness.
• The once loaded strikeforce is starting to look a little bit threadbare now with Eddie and Trencito sidelined indefinitely. Enter Sebastian Rincon. There have been a lot of rumors flying around about Rincon, but it seems very likely he will make the team. Merritt reported last week that Rincon held a green card, meaning he wouldn’t take up an international roster spot. Behind Boyd, Perlaza, and Dike there should be room for another young striker to develop alongside Brent Richards. Plus, considering his relationship with Trencito, having him in the club will also help keep the Little Train motivated and happy in Portland.
• Speaking of Kris Boyd, where is he? This is probably premature, but considering the timelines reported by the club the last couple weeks, it seems like we should be seeing the Scotsman in green by now. Last time the Timbers signed a highly touted player from the British Isles . . . never mind. It’s probably nothing; these sorts of things can take time and are hard to predict with precision. Still, it’s hard not have flashbacks to Kerr . . . ugh, never mind.[3]
• Oh, and can somebody please tell us how Lance Davids is doing? He’s a pretty well credentialed player and has been with the club for a week, and yet we haven’t heard a peep about him. I imagine that may change with Lovel Palmer[4] seemingly sidelined for a good chunk of the preseason, if not more.
• For what it’s worth (next to nothing), Sunday marked John Spencer’s first win over longtime friend and former boss Dominic Kinnear, after two regular season losses and a preseason draw last year.
• Finally, a big happy birthday to Eric Brunner! May somebody appreciate your considerable soccer talents in your 27^th year on this planet.[5]

And with that, enjoy the next few matches – we’ll catch up again before the AIK tournament.

Onward, Rose City!

—by Chris Rifer

Welcome to Wednesday, folks. If you slept through Monday and Tuesday, well, prepare to be welcomed to a whole new world.[1]

Remember a few weeks ago when folks were griping about the lack of signings? Remember when some around Morrison Street were beginning to channel Gunner faithful in pleading for the Timbers to spend some [------] money? Trencito wasn’t enough – after trading Kenny Cooper and drafting thriftily many were demanding fresh blood to help the turf grow at Jeld-Wen Field.

And then Hanyer Mosquera happened. And it was good. But then it got quiet again, and the chants from the Emirates again began to be whispered on the winds through Portland.

And then Monday and Tuesday happened. Holy cow.

Kris Boyd

On Monday Portland got its man. After making clear that they were desirous of a #9 – somebody to hold the ball up, and finish chances – the Timbers landed their poacher in Kris Boyd.

A veteran of John Spencer’s old club, Rangers,[2] Kris Boyd comes to Portland as the all-time leading goalscorer in the Scottish Premier League.[3] From 2006-2010 Boyd logged 101 goals for Rangers in 143 appearances across all competitions. Boyd found the net seven times for Scotland in 18 caps. After a 2010 move to the English Championship, Boyd added 12 goals in 39 total appearances for Middlesboro and Nottingham Forest, including a torrid six goals in a ten match stretch for Forest.[4] Boyd briefly moved to the Turkish Super Lig this season, but apparently his club didn’t pay him.

While there are questions about Boyd,[5] the strong consensus seems to be that he is an upgrade – and perhaps a rather substantial upgrade – over Kenny Cooper. As a true poacher, it seems unlikely John Spencer would deploy him in a 4-5-1-like formation. Instead, he seems best suited to a more traditional 4-4-2, or perhaps an aggressive 4-3-3 with multiple strikers playing pretty high. He doesn’t seem like the type that will function well on his own up top.

Considering Spenny’s tendencies, my guess is we see Boyd as a lead man in the 4-4-2, with Jorge Perlaza running alongside. Darlington Nagbe seems like a more logical fit for right mid now, considering Boyd will need some service and Nagbe is probably the best passer the Timbers have available at that position right now.

Regardless of how the tactics work out, the addition of Boyd provides a rudder to a Timbers strikeforce that last week seemed a bit afloat.

Charles Renken

On Tuesday a player fell into Portland’s lap. After the other 18 MLS clubs turned up their nose at one-time American prodigy Charles Renken, Portland grabbed him off of waivers. What exactly does that mean? Well, nobody seems sure, but it seems likely Portland acquired Renken without losing their allocation position.

Renken is a fixture in the American youth system, having been called to every youth team from U-14 to U-20. Most recently, Renken played for Hoffenheim’s U-19s, logging 10 appearances in his first professional season last year.

There is no doubt Renken is a long-term prospect. Despite being on the national team radar for quite a while, Renken is still only 18. In the last couple years he has been slowed by a few knew injuries – something that is not unheard of considering the amount of soccer he has played while growing.

Nonetheless, Renken now becomes a guy that the Timbers can immerse in the MLS game for a couple years while letting him develop in the reserves. Instead of training with U-19s and reserves in Germany, he will train every day with first team professionals while getting meaningful playing time in the reserves.

While at this point Renken is far from a surefire prospect – as the fact that 18 other teams passed on him demonstrates – he is definitely a very high upside guy.[6] Don’t be surprised if Renken is breaking into the first team in a couple years and making a bit of a splash. Just the chance of that happening is well worth the Timber’s acquisition of him.

What’s to Come

Now folks, the week may not be over just yet.

Yesterday on ExtraTime Radio, Merritt suggested that there were likely two more major announcements yet to be made within the next week or so. First, it is likely we will hear something about the status of Trencito – and his mysterious medical testing – in the next day or two. At this point it sounds probable that the Timbers plan to keep Trencito in spite of some “red flags” that the physical raised, but the Timbers are in the process of negotiating a lower transfer fee from Santa Fe for the young striker.

Second, Merritt suggested that the international signings weren’t done just yet. After Boyd, Portland reportedly has one international roster spot left. For a couple weeks now the Timbers have been linked with Juan David Duque, a young left back from Atletico Nacional in (do I even have to say this?) Medellin, Colombia.

Finally, it is likely the Timbers will have the roster space to sign a trialist or two. Right now, the Timbers have two significant trialists in camp, Frank Sango’o, a Cameroonian winger, and Sebastian Rincon, an 18 year old Colombian striker from Trencito’s former club, Independiente Santa Fe. While Rincon is a recent arrival in Portland, Sango’o has been here all week and has impressed onlookers. Regardless, decisions on these guys will probably not be made until after the Timbers’ preseason trip to L.A., so you will likely have a few days to catch your breath.

Until next time,

Onward, Rose City!

For Immediate Release — January 24, 2012 —

The supporters groups from the three Cascadia MLS clubs have agreed on new rules for the Cascadia Cup after MLS moved to an unbalanced schedule in 2012.

The Emerald City Supporters, Southsiders and Timbers Army agreed that all matches will count towards the Cascadia Cup, even though the new unbalanced MLS schedule means each team will play a different number of home games against their Cascadia rivals this season.

“We all agreed that this was the simplest format, one that all the fans will find easiest to follow,” says Brenton Walters, Southsiders spokesperson.

Portland Timbers will host both Seattle Sounders and Vancouver Whitecaps twice, Vancouver will see Portland once and Seattle twice at home, and Seattle will only host each team once. Despite this imbalance, the three supporters groups agreed to count all matches equally in order to keep the 2012 Cascadia Cup format simple.

“It’s unfortunate that the league didn’t work out a balanced schedule for the Cascadia teams,” says Garrett Dittfurth of the Timbers Army. “We think the league should fix this for next season so that no team has an unfair advantage in Cup matches.”

The Cascadia Cup will be awarded to the team with the most points after all matches have been played or when there is a clear winner. In the event of a tie, the Cup will be awarded to the team with the best goal differential followed by best head to head performance.

Should the MLS schedule remain unbalanced in 2013, the Emerald City Supporters, Southsiders, and Timbers Army insist that the 2013 MLS schedule will allow for a redistribution of the away/home matches.

“Cascadia is home to the oldest and strongest rivalry in North American soccer, and the value that the supporters put on the Cascadia Cup reflects that,” says Greg Mockos of the Emerald City Supporters. “The league should pay attention.”

In addition supporters’ group leadership has approved the following tie-breakers to apply in the case that two teams finish equal on points:

1. Greater number of points earned in matches between the teams concerned
   
2. Greater goal difference in matches between the teams concerned
   
3. Greater number of goals scored in matches between the teams concerned
   
4. Reapply first three criteria if two or more teams are still tied
   
5. Greater goal difference in all cup matches
   
6. Greater number of goals scored in all cup matches
   
7. Smaller number of disciplinary points in all cup matches (yellow = 1 point, red = 2 points)
   

These new tie-breakers will make it easier for fans to follow the standings and potential scenarios for their club winning the cup. Tie-breakers 1-6 are almost the same as those used in the UEFA and CONCACAF Champions League group stages. The main exception being that we have removed tie-breakers that look into away goals as it would likely not be a good idea with unbalanced schedules.

These new tie-breaker rules will be in effect until otherwise stated by supporters groups from all three Cascadia teams.

Background:

The Cascadia Cup was created in 2004 by supporters groups of the three Cascadia teams, and is awarded annually to the best team in the Cascadia region. Seattle and Vancouver have each won it three times, Portland has won it twice.

2012 Cascadia Cup schedule:

With the unbalanced 2012 MLS schedule, Portland plays four home and two away matches, Vancouver plays three home and three away matches and Seattle plays two home and four away matches.

Format: home team v. away team

• May 19: Vancouver Whitecaps v. Seattle Sounders
  
• May 26: Portland Timbers v. Vancouver Whitecaps
  
• June 24: Portland Timbers v. Seattle Sounders
  
• August 18: Seattle Sounders v. Vancouver Whitecaps
  
• August 25: Portland Timbers v. Vancouver Whitecaps
  
• September 15: Portland Timbers v. Seattle Sounders
  
• September 29: Vancouver Whitecaps v. Seattle Sounders
  
• October 7: Seattle Sounders v. Portland Timbers
  
• October 20: Vancouver Whitecaps v. Portland Timbers

—by Sherrilynn "Sheba" Rawson

Jelly Helm Studio, the Timbers ad agency responsible for so many awesome displays of love for the Timbers around town, recently sold a run of limited edition T-shirts as a benefit for local soccer. The T-shirt was a tribute to the early days of soccer, or "association football, " including a match that was played at the site that is now JELD-WEN Field back in 1893. The black "MULTNOMAH XI / 1893" T-shirt was sold as a fundraiser, with all profits going to both Operation Pitch Invasion and the Gisele Currier Memorial Scholarship Fund.

Thanks to T-shirt sales, Jelly Helm Studio has donated $185 to the Gisele Currier Memorial Scholarship Fund. The fund was established last year in memory of beloved, long-time TA member Gisele Currier, who passed away suddenly last April. In her honor, moneys from the fund support soccer projects in the Portland region, including last year's scholarship recipients. Thanks to everyone who purchased the T-shirts to help raise the money for the fund.

Huge thanks to Jelly Helm Studio for their generous support.

Learn more about the Gisele Currier Memorial Fund, and make a donation to support local soccer.

—by Chris Rifer

When it rains, it pours. I’m not entirely sure how that translates to snow, but whatever it is, that’s what it was doing when I walked to work this morning. It’s also pouring talent on the Timbers roster right now, as today’s snow day[1] brought the somewhat-expected announcement that Portland officially inked Hanyer Mosquera.

Mosquera, “El Mosco”,[2] is a 25 year-old center back from – where else – Istmina, Colombia.  At 6’1”, 175 pounds, El Mosco isn’t the most physically imposing center back around, but he is reputed to be one of the better center backs in Colombia.

Presumably Mosquera will slot into the starting eleven alongside Eric Brunner at center back, leaving Futty as the first center back off the bench. Mosquera’s contract does not appear to be Designated Player, meaning the Timbers still likely have one DP spot to play with if they so choose.[3] Regardless, in spite of Merritt’s suggestion to the contrary,[4] we can now start to put together still-too-early starting eleven projections for the 2012 season. So, without further adieu, meet your 2012 Portland Timbers:[5]

Goalkeeper – Troy Perkins. The reality is Jake Gleeson is still a couple years away from mounting a serious challenge to Troy’s stranglehold on the starting keeper gig.

Left Back – Rodney Wallace. One of the harder positions to project at this point because of competition between Chabala and Wallace. I have to think Rodney’s late-season form – which was better than Chewy’s – and his success with the Costa Rican National Team gives him a leg up at this point.

Center Back – Eric Brunner, Hanyer Mosquera. A pretty easy position to pick. Brunner was one of the unsung heroes of 2011. Mosquera is one of the major additions of 2012. If Brunner holds or improves upon his 2011 form and Mosquera lives up to his billing, this may be one of the better tandems in the league.[6]

Right Back – Lovel Palmer. Absent a move at right back, which seems unlikely at this point, Palmer will likely get a mulligan on his less-than-stellar debut with the Timbers. Sometimes that works out. Other times it doesn’t. Color me skeptical.

Left Midfield – Kalif Alhassan. The Timbers have made a few statements endorsing Kalif over the past few months, and I expect he will be the opening day starter on the left wing. Considering he has been in Portland for a year and a half now, it is easy to forget he is only 21. The upside on this kid is outrageous. Think about it, if he had played in the American university system, there is a good chance he would have been in this draft class. Can you name three players from the 2012 SuperDraft you think will have a greater impact this season than Kalif? Me neither.

Center Midfield – Jack Jewsbury, Diego Chara. The forgotten storyline among all the roster moves is that Portland may have the best returning central midfield in MLS. That’s a bold statement, and certainly there are arguments to be made for others, but Jack Jewsbury was an All-Star last year,[7] and he’s probably the second best of the two. The league still doesn’t know who Diego Chara is. They will by July.[8]

Right Midfield – Darlington Nagbe. This might be the surprise, and at this point it is probably the hardest position to predict because it could easily go one of three ways. Sal Zizzo is likely to be on the mend through the first couple months of the season. This spot may be occupied by Eric Alexander, but something tells me the training wheels are going to come off young Darlington this year, and this is the spot that makes the most sense for him right now. Why? Keep reading.

Forward – Jorge Perlaza, Mystery Designated Player. First, let’s talk Jorge. Perhaps nothing in MLS is more tried and true than the second-year bump foreign players get after coming into the league. The travel is tough, the league is physical, and the culture is new. Jorge was very up and down in 2011. Expect more up than down in 2012. Now, to the Mystery DP. It has to happen. It must already be in the cards – likely a card in a pile of transactions on Don Garber’s desk right now. Otherwise the Kenny Cooper trade really doesn’t make much sense, as the logical strikeforce would feature two strikers under 5’9”.[9]

The other foreseeable option is Darlington taking Perlaza’s spot at striker and either Alexander or a healthy Sal Zizzo slotting in at right mid. Jorge, in that instance, would essentially be the first player off the bench for Portland, bringing pace off the pine to test tired backlines.[10] If – and this is the biggest if – Alexander or Zizzo show they are as capable as Nagbe is on the right wing, this could happen. To be honest, though, I wonder if Sal is going to be on form in mid-March and whether Alexander is really a right midfielder. In the end, that’s why I project Nagbe to be the opening day starter on the right side.

We start answering all these questions on Monday, however, as training camp is less than a week away.

Onward, Rose City!

—by Sherrilynn "Sheba" Rawson

At noon on Saturday, January 14th, over 300 members and friends packed the Bagdad Theater for the 107ist Annual General Meeting. It was a chance to catch up with friends, buy some cool merchandise, pick up membership renewal packets, and hear about the past accomplishments and future direction of the 107 Independent Supporters Trust from the 107IST Board.

The afternoon started with a warm welcome from newly elected 107IST Board president, Scott Van Swearingen. Scott introduced the Board members who had joined the Board in the past year, including Sherrilynn "Sheba" Rawson, Bruce "Obi" Eaton, Matt Talley in absentia, Harper Morgan-Werner, and Lauren Prince. He highlighted some of the growth the 107IST has experienced, including over $400,000 in gross receipts for the year. Scott then proceeded to share some of the successful ventures of the 107IST, telling of the formation of the Timbers Army FC, a network of official Timbers Army teams that play in outdoor soccer leagues in the Portland metro area, and plans for its continued growth.

Fernando Machicado shared some of the successes we've had in game day operations, highlighting last year's tremendous successes in tifo, and that plans are in the works for impressive displays in the coming year.

Jeremy Wright highlighted our successes with travel to away games this year. He shared the incredible growth in our travel operations this year, including over $81,000 spent on tickets and buses, over 2,800 tickets sold, and 9 officially organized away matches. Jeremy also noted that we had TA representation in every away match this year, with the smallest number being at Dallas away and the largest number, not surprisingly, being at Seattle away. He shared a letter that the front office received from an Earthquakes fan following the organized trip to San Jose away this year that praised the Timbers Army as the future of soccer supporters in the US. Jeremy also shared some information regarding planning for organized away trips this year: we expect to have a higher seat allocation to Seattle away (same Cascadia travel rules will apply); we will travel to Vancover away; and other organized away trips to a variety of places, including but not limited to LA Galaxy, possibly Montreal (with a possible flight to the Northeast and a bus to Montreal); possibly New York and/or a combination New York/Toronto trip; a Colorado away trip; and an organized trip to at least one of the Salt Lake City away matches.

Garrett Dittfurth highlighted successes in communications, including the positive press that the Timbers Army received in both the Wall Street Journal and the New York Times as well as local outlets. He addressed the challenges of both internal and external communication and shared that the Board has plans in place to address both.

Abram Goldman-Armstrong shared stories of the successes of sharing supporters culture with others through the fanzine the Whipsaw, noting that it has been cited in many places, even overseas. He then treated the crowd to a reading in German from a St. Pauli fanzine which praised the Timbers Army and its supporters. He noted the move to strengthen supporters groups in the United States, and shared that the 107IST is sponsoring a gathering of representatives supporters groups from most club in the MLS with representatives of supporters from all but three clubs have indicating their interest, as a means of being better able to speak to the league with one voice about issues that matter to supporters.

Rich Recker and Ben Dudley shared the successful kickoff of Advantage Centers Portland, which pairs coaching students in soccer with positive academic outreach, targeting youth who typically do not have successful academic outcomes. He thanked the Timbers Army and 107IST for the successful kickoff this year, and our involvement in the successful transformation of the blacktop at James John Elementary into a small soccer pitch. He shared AC Portland's plans for continued growth in building soccer pitches and working with youth, and thanked the 107IST for their support.

Shawn Levy shared the successes of Operation Pitch Invasion, including OPI's involvement in the aforementioned James John Elementary project as well as the field restoration at Ed Benedict Park. He also noted that Tom Dunmore, who runs the (unaffiliated) Pitch Invasion blog and is involved with supporters in Chicago, will also be selling a Pitch Invasion scarf and donating the profits to OPI.

Sherrilynn "Sheba" Rawson shared past successes in community outreach, noting that the 107IST was responsible for approximately $40,000 in charitable donations last year to projects including Harper's Playground; outfitting three local high schools' soccer teams (both boys' and girls' teams); scholarships for three local soccer athletes to attend National Team training camps, one of whom went on to score a goal for the U17 USMNT; AC Portland and OPI; and Meadowood Springs Speech and Hearing Camp. She also shared the ways in which 107IST members gave thousands of volunteer hours to organized events with Friends of the Trees, the Oregon Food Bank, OPI, AC Portland, and Sunday Parkways. She noted that the coming year will bring more opportunities for volunteering and for charitable efforts.

Scott shared the Board's vision for an increase in membership, and the Board took questions from members. Questions were wide ranging and included the serious (is there any sort of protest planned following the flare bans?--no; have you addressed a code of ethics?--yes; will you improve organization of volunteer communications?--yes), to the self-congratulatory (107IST--how awesome are you guys; just awesome or really awesome?--really awesome) to the wishful (what about West Side capos?--not at this time, no; will you be expanding the merch line to include more items?--yes, but judiciously) to the silly (will the movie be the Dangerfield classic, "Ladybugs?"--no).

After a break, members were treated to a free showing of the movie "Pelada." Over 140 members also picked up their renewal packets and pins, and many people took advantage of the opportunity to purchase much-loved Timbers Army merchandise as well. Huge thanks to the volunteers who staffed the back tables for materials pickup, as well as those who staffed the merch table and those who organized the event for the day. Here's to an even more successful 2012!

—by Chris Rifer

At long last this offseason, changes are afoot on Morrison Street. No, it wasn’t the SuperDraft selections or a rumored international signing that did it, rather it was the unexpectedly timed departure of Kenny Cooper that signaled the imminent changes for the Timbers.

Half an hour before the SuperDraft the news leaked out: Portland sent Kenny Cooper to Red Bull New York in exchange for New York’s highest 2013 first round draft pick and allocation money.[1] The primary goal for Portland was to clear Cooper’s hefty salary off their books, presumably in preparation for one or more forthcoming international signings.

The departure of Cooper, however, does create a bit of a hole up front. Cooper was Portland’s only true target up front, even if he was somewhere south of effective at times. His ineffectiveness probably wasn’t entirely his fault, as he was often starved for service. While Portland occasionally sported outside backs who enjoyed overlapping and whipping crosses in toward a target,[2] Portland’ offensive MO was really centered around set piece execution, interior runs from the wings, and the occasional long ball forward. With the lack of change on the wings and flanks thus far, there really isn’t reason to expect change in the near term.

The reality is Kenny struggled to hold the ball up at times, often being easily dispossessed or stalling an attack with the ball seemingly Velcroed to his feet. Darlington Nagbe seemed better suited to that withdrawn spot, and with the lack of quality service from out wide Kenny was sometimes a man uncomfortable with his role in the strikeforce.[3]

The question, then, is where does Portland go now that it is seemingly flush with cash? Gavin Wilkinson has already telegraphed part of the answer, suggesting to MLSSoccer.com’s Simon Borg that the Timbers are in the hunt for a top-quality striker in the transfer market. The suspicion here is the Timbers have already identified and likely signed said striker, who is just awaiting approval from the League or FIFA.

It is also likely the Timbers would have the financial wherewithal to make a second significant move – likely to bolster the backline, and maybe even a third smaller move, depending on Portland’s allocation money reserves. Considering the unit’s tepid production last year, it seems likely the Timbers would be interested in bringing in a right wing, especially in light of the injury to Sal Zizzo. The other place Portland could look to upgrade is on the flanks, although improvement there comes at a steeper price than in the midfield, and once it came together the defense performed fairly well in the last half of 2011.[4] Finally, with Horst out at least into the summer, the FO is probably looking to bring more center back depth to Morrison Street.

Center back was never a serious problem for Portland last year, and the tandem of Futty and Eric Brunner seems perfectly serviceable going into 2012. The problem is the Timbers are one separated shoulder away from 19-year old Andrew Jean-Baptiste being forced into starting first team action – something the Timbers aren’t likely wild about early on. Look for Portland to make a smaller move – something like picking up Portland native Ryan Cochrane on free transfer – to provide a little more depth to the middle of the defense.

Regardless of what ends up going down, it seems likely that next week will be an eventful one for the Timbers. So don’t stray too far from the internet.

The Young’uns

After speculation the Timbers would trade out or down in the draft, Portland made their two assigned draft picks on Thursday. With the Eighth pick in the draft, Portland selected Andrew Jean-Baptiste from the University of Connecticut. A hulking, raw center back, Jean-Baptiste comes in as a high-upside guy who could need a year or two of seasoning before he is ready for substantial first team action. Nonetheless, the physical tools are there for Jean-Baptiste, who looks primed for at least two years of Generation Adidas designation, meaning he will stay off Portland’s books while he develops.

With the 27th overall pick, Portland landed Brendan King[5] from Notre Dame. King likely projects as a central midfielder, although absent a breakout, will likely spend time roaming the midfield in the reserves before getting his shot at the first team.

Finally, before draft day the Timbers picked up a young man who needs no introduction to the Timbers Army, Brent Richards. After dominating the U-23 level for three years, Portland made Richards their first Home Grown signing. Richards put up a video game-like 26 goals and 12 assists in his three-year Timbers U-23 career,[6] leading the 2010 U-23ers to an undefeated and untied season and, obviously, the PDL title. Former U-23ers have already seen success at the senior level at Morrison Street, with Jake Gleeson and Freddie Braun impressing in their senior debut last year. Richards is arguably the best of that bunch. While he starred as a striker at the U-23 level, Merritt has suggested Brent may fit in on the wings in MLS.

With that said, we are 9 days from training camp opening.

Onward, Rose City!

We are pleased to announce that we have finalized the date and location for our Annual General Membership Meeting.

The meeting will be open to current members of all ages. In addition, you are invited to bring one guest to the meeting who does not need to be a 107ist member.

Important: Because space is limited, both Members and guests must RSVP for the meeting & movie.

When you RSVP, you can also submit a question or suggest 2012 activities or priorities for the board. There will also be an opportunity to ask questions in person at the meeting. A preliminary agenda is below.

Here are the details:

What: 107ist Annual General Meeting

When: Saturday, January 14th, 2012

Meeting: Noon - 1:30pm

Movie: 2:00 - 4:00 pm

Where: Bagdad Theater, 3702 S.E. Hawthorne Blvd.

Proposed Agenda

Noon - Welcome

- Board Member Introductions (Announcing outgoing and incoming board members)

- 2011 Accomplishments Overview

- 2012 Plan

- Q/A, General discussion

1:30 pm Break

A selection of merchandise will be available for purchase during this portion of the event. You will be able to join 107ist or renew your membership in person.

2:00 pm Movie Screening

Following the meeting we will be screening the movie "Pelada"

Pelada - Two players. 25 countries. One game.

Away from professional stadiums, bright lights, and manicured fields, there’s another side of soccer. Tucked away on alleys, side streets, and concrete courts, people play in improvised games. Every country has a different word for it. In the United States, we call it “pick-up soccer.” In Trinidad, it's "taking a sweat." In England, it's "having a kick-about." In Brazil, the word is “pelada,” which literally means "naked"—the game stripped down to its core. It’s the version of the game played by anyone, anywhere—and it’s a window into lives all around the world.

Pelada is a documentary following Luke and Gwendolyn, two former college soccer stars who didn’t quite make it to the pros. Not ready for it to be over, they take off, chasing the game. From prisoners in Bolivia to moonshine brewers in Kenya, from freestylers in China to women who play in hijab in Iran, Pelada is the story of the people who play.