Well, at least we got the score right. (we thought we posted our preview here, but apparently, we missed the trap on that ball. Be sure to check back for previews and pairings on every game!)
The new-look Timbers stumbled out of the gate Sunday night against the Galaxy in their season opener and never quite recovered. The away squad fell behind early 2-0 after the Galaxy converted on chances in the 32nd and 34th minutes and though they made it a close game late in the second half, they ultimately fell 2-1 in the end. The Timbers back line looked a bit over-matched at times, though after the two goals in quick succession, seemed to settle in. The offense, though showing flashes, looked like they could benefit from more spending more time together on the pitch.
Of course, seasons aren’t won or lost in the opener, and certainly, a single March snowstorm will not derail a vineyard’s growing season. What’s important about a vineyard hit by a storm is less about the storm itself and more about the resilience of the vineyard in the following days. Immature vines can be greatly impacted for the worse. Mature vines, however, are better equipped to absorb the blow of a massive storm or an abrupt change in the weather. Similarly, the best teams are the ones where veteran leadership serve as the team’s anchor. After hearing Coach Gio, Adi and Ridgewell speak confidently following the loss, we think there’s reason to be optimistic. The leadership is strong and the future bright in PDX. We’re expecting the Timbers to make some repairs to their back line and to build on the positives we saw in L.A. We’ll be back in a few days for a look ahead at the Timbers match Saturday afternoon in New York vs the Red Bulls, a team who have yet to make their 2018 MLS debut. #RCTID