This past Saturday was one of those days where a tie felt far more like a win than it did kissing one’s sister. Faced with the threat of starting the season 0-3, the Timbers dug their heels into the hot Dallas turf and managed to claw their way to a point and a 1-1 draw. Portland’s effort this past weekend was similar to the type of performance we’ve grown accustomed to but have been missing thus far. Sporting a lineup that welcomed Diego Chara back for the first time in nearly six months, the Timbers received a boost in grit and fought for everything they got from a stiff FC Dallas front. They even nearly managed to sneak out of Texas with a win despite being down a man. Lawrence Olum was sent off for his 2nd yellow on a deliberate hand ball in the 75th minute yet Portland still saw chances late for a go-ahead goal.
Like stubborn, mature vines, the Timbers co-sponsored an old vineyard saying that you, “have to struggle to grow”. The boys who have struggled early, looked far more comfortable on the pitch, even in the ungodly Texas heat. Sebastián Blanco looked like a man possessed, as he consistently pestered and got behind the FC Dallas defense, scoring a gorgeous goal and nearly accounting for another on a cross that just missed Maestro, his intended target.
All in all, the Timbers Army got what we were looking for this weekend. Not only did we secure a much-needed road point but recouped some lost faith (for those who lost any–not us, of course). With a very winnable match-up against the Chicago Fire this coming Saturday, a Timbers win would put them at 4 points for their first four games. While not an ideal start, it would be a tremendous rebound from their 0-2 beginnings and would set Portland up nicely for the rest of the season, when they’ll spend more time at the newly renovated Providence Park in front of the MLS’ best fan base. #RCTID