Stumptown Footy - All PostsYou are my sunshine, my only sunshine.https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/31537/stumptown-fave.jpg2023-03-31T08:35:24-07:00http://www.stumptownfooty.com/rss/current/2023-03-31T08:35:24-07:002023-03-31T08:35:24-07:00Stumptown Footy has moved!
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<img alt="SOCCER: JUL 17 MLS - Vancouver Whitecaps at Portland Timbers" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/SC957EIP9gb1SyH9yUDKxH74fso=/0x32:3000x2032/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/72134626/1241968827.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Brian Murphy/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p><em>Come join us on Substack!</em></p> <p id="05AK0M">Hello there!</p>
<p id="nzZapH">Stumptown Footy has moved! We are now on Substack. <a href="https://stumptownfooty.substack.com/welcome"><strong>You can find the site and subscribe to it right here so that you’re all set to see it once it goes live (happening imminently!)</strong></a>.</p>
<p id="68sOb6">We are still providing all of the same <a href="https://www.stumptownfooty.com">Portland Timbers</a> and Portland Thorns coverage you’re used to, just in a different place, and now with the added bonus if it being delivered directly to your email inbox. The same team (and possibly more...?) that has kept you up to date on all things PTFC has taken their talents to the new home, and we all couldn’t be more excited about it.</p>
<p id="IudFyo">The team is still ironing out a few (read: a lot) of the kinks, and you’ll notice that there isn’t a ton of posts on the site yet. But I promise you that we are working behind the scenes on the grand reveal of some great stuff, and over the coming days we’ll be able to bring you a site that carries on the legacy of STF in a cool new way.</p>
<p id="D9wSRS">What has made, and will continue to make, Stumptown Footy special was all of y’all: the fan community that was built here. It won’t quite be exactly the same, but our hope is that the new version of the site will be the same vibrant and passionate space for all of us to come together and talk about the teams we love. We want to continue to have a space for us to complain about the Timbers’ defenders, revel in the greatness of Sophia Smith, marvel at the ageless Diego Chara, and debate whether the Thorns should have won a game by three goals or four goals.</p>
<p id="PtrR1K"><a href="https://stumptownfooty.substack.com/welcome">So we really hope that you’ll join us on the new site.</a> It’s probably going to be a learning process for all of us, but in a way that’s the beauty of it all. We get to navigate this next phase just as we have gotten through everything else with the Thorns and Timbers: together.</p>
<p id="Qztsvo">Forever and always: Onward Rose City.</p>
<p id="n3adLS">- The Stumptown Footy team</p>
https://www.stumptownfooty.com/2023/3/31/23663495/stumptown-footy-has-movedSam Svilar2023-03-28T09:00:00-07:002023-03-28T09:00:00-07:00NWSL Week 1 Power Rankings + More From Portland’s Opening Day Win
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<img alt="The Official Soccer Ball of the NWSL" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/zxeIJGJMSPMSKcSX7b3-7C5Wfjk=/0x1:5228x3486/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/72123323/usa_today_19776885.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>The Official Soccer Ball of the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) | Kyle Ross -USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>The NWSL is back! Who stood out in week 1? Also, more from the Portland Thorns’ 4-0 win over Orlando Pride. </p> <h1 id="2JX58z">
<strong>They’re Back! - The Return of the </strong><a href="https://www.allforxi.com"><strong>NWSL</strong></a><strong> Champs</strong>
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<p id="oPcjjw">The defending NWSL Champions the <a href="https://www.stumptownfooty.com">Portland Thorns</a> won their season opener over the <a href="https://www.themaneland.com">Orlando Pride</a> 4-0 and sent a clear message to the rest of the league that they are coming back for more. </p>
<p id="V8HP7l">Portland had a club record goal differential of +25 ahead of the next two teams at +13 in 2022, <a href="https://www.sounderatheart.com">OL Reign</a> and <a href="https://www.dirtysouthsoccer.com/">North Carolina Courage</a>. </p>
<p id="cMgFD5">The season could not of started much better for the Thorns with Mike Norris also picking up his first head coaching win. </p>
<p id="omJSIH">“I’m really proud. I asked a group to start well, from the first whistle. I think we did that. Got the goals and settled the nerves a little bit,” Norris said. “We talked about the occasion. I think the anticipation for the season opener, being back in front of the crowd after being champions was a big thing to embrace and enjoy. We really just asked to make sure that we played against the opponent and not versus the occasion. I think we did that from the start. So yeah, just proud.”</p>
<p id="ZSY1EU">One of the stars on the day was Morgan Weaver, who has put in all the hard work and more in the offseason. Weaver worked with trainer for the first time after working on her own in previous years. If one game is any indication, she looks on her way to having her best season yet. </p>
<p id="hVqV0V">“This offseason I really tried to focus on myself, and so it’s very special. I can’t wait for the rest of the season to see how it goes” said Weaver.</p>
<p id="G5atMu">Michele Vasconcelos came on as a 2nd half sub and scored her first goal since 2019 — when she scored for the <a href="https://www.hottimeinoldtown.com">Chicago Red Stars</a> against the Thorns. Now, she is playing for the other side and scoring too. Her first goal for the Thorns put a stamp on the game. </p>
<p id="cRelMX">This was her first full offseason with the club and it was a huge boost to her.</p>
<p id="wxFZKU">“It helped so much! It’s always tough to come in. The team made it [a] smooth transition last year, but to have that building period with the team, it helped so much. I feel a lot more comfortable this year” said Vasconcelos. </p>
<p id="FhJFYD"><strong>Standout: Natalia Kuikka is one of the best RBs in the NWSL</strong></p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Queen of recoveries!<br><br>Natu Kuikka made 19 recoveries in the game against the Pride. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BAONPDX?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BAONPDX</a> <br>Sam Coffey and Kelli Hubly were second in this department with 8 each. <a href="https://t.co/0FAcATApFk">pic.twitter.com/0FAcATApFk</a></p>— Melina Melinae (@melinae07) <a href="https://twitter.com/melinae07/status/1640133687625875456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2023</a>
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<h1 id="fh09Ou"><strong>STF’s Wow Moments! - Hina Sugita and Sam Coffey</strong></h1>
<p id="9zoVfN"><a href="https://twitter.com/janinebeckie/status/1640137662559588358?s=20">Janine Beckie on twitter</a>: “Hina Sugita is a cheat code.” We agree! Hina Hive where you at?</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">FACTS <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BAONPDX?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BAONPDX</a> <a href="https://t.co/ZWMgUDLk6Y">https://t.co/ZWMgUDLk6Y</a> <a href="https://t.co/oS0dL2eSuh">pic.twitter.com/oS0dL2eSuh</a></p>— Portland Thorns FC (@ThornsFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ThornsFC/status/1640137863202496512?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2023</a>
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<p id="GB7Bz8">Did you know Sam Coffey completed 92% of her passes? She was 46/50 according to <a href="https://twitter.com/melinae07/status/1640128490031726595?s=20">Opta</a>.</p>
<div id="NZrfYd"><div style="left: 0; width: 100%; height: 0; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.25%;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/AOFW2isylvU?rel=0&start=246" style="top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute; border: 0;" allowfullscreen="" scrolling="no" allow="accelerometer; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share;"></iframe></div></div>
<h1 id="jX1K3v"><strong>NWSL Power Rankings: Week 1</strong></h1>
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<li id="16paH0">
<strong>Portland Thorns</strong> - There was a lot of media predicting a down year for Portland. Their reasoning was that they did not improve the roster after they just won a NWSL Championship. That logic just doesn’t make much sense. The Portland Thorns have a chance to make another huge statement on the road against the 2022 NWSL championship finalists who are also shorthanded, the Kansas City Current. </li>
<li id="tYbBET">
<strong>San Diego Wave </strong>- This team is as tough as they come. They just continue to wear you out, grind it out, and usually capitalize when it matters. The Wave will need to improve after a gutsy opener where they were definitely not at their best. San Diego can’t continue to win games when they have less possession (48% to 52%) shots (9 to 15), shots on goal (5 to 6), passes (394 to 444), and pass accuracy (69% to 77%). However, they still possess one of the best backlines in the NWSL and have the 2022 coach of the year, Casey Stoney. </li>
<li id="KBHUZb">
<strong>OL Reign</strong> - Their xG (expected goals) against the <a href="https://www.blackandredunited.com/">Washington Spirit</a> was 2.01! This has been an ongoing issue for the Reign. Their finishing has let them down in key games and seems like it could continue in 2023. OL Reign are way too talented to not contend this season, there will definitely be some scoring issues from time to time though. </li>
<li id="Q47orU">
<strong>Kansas City Current</strong> - They are missing a bunch of key contributors. Kansas City is going to be in the shield of championship chase. Can the Current find some results until they are fully healthy?</li>
<li id="u2hvZ9">
<strong>NJ/NY Gotham FC</strong> - In the first half, it was all kinds of nightmares for Gotham supporters. This team had trouble with possession and containing the <a href="https://www.angelsonparade.com/">Angel City FC</a> attack and counters. In the second half, this team looked as dangerous as it should. Their front 6 is going to cause fits all year - Purce, Williams, Ryan, Mewis, Bruninha/Nighswonger, and Allie Long is an elite group. Can their backline hold up? That’s a whole different story. </li>
<li id="jeUfCA">
<strong>Washington Spirit</strong> - Mark Parsons is going to get this team to win a lot of tough games. His teams have always been stout defensively, but that will be tested this season, big time. Offensively, he has one of the best frontlines to work with. Their backline and defense will make or break their season.</li>
<li id="j81uSI">
<a href="https://www.dynamotheory.com/"><strong>Houston Dash</strong></a> - Houston had an xG of 1.60 while Louisville xG was at 1.30. Both teams were both unlucky to score. Diana Ordóñez is going to be a superstar. Sanchez becoming fully healthy will be a huge boost to this squad. </li>
<li id="IAmLo0">
<strong>Racing Louisville</strong> - This team is carrying on their late season form into 2023. Abby Erceg and Carson Pickett have completely changed this backline. Their leadership and play paid dividends in game one and it’s only going to get better from here. Is there any better young midfield duo than Sav Demelo and Jae Howell (should be back soon)? Racing Louisville is a playoff contender this year, and they can make even bigger noise if their frontline plays solid.</li>
<li id="VHBLzR">
<strong>Angel City FC</strong> - They absolutely deserved at least a draw in the opener. Alyssa Thompson scored her first of many goals and was devastating on the counter. Endo’s goal was taken away after the head official went to VAR. If their midfield can be close to an even level during games, they’ll be making their first playoffs. </li>
<li id="pb8TKi">
<strong>Chicago Red Stars</strong> - Chicago should of came away with at least a draw against San Diego. This team still has plenty of firepower and star power. Having Tierna Davidson and Casey Krueger back is so important. Can they compete when Mallory Swanson is off on the World Cup? And who is going to score when she is taken away by double and even triple teamed?</li>
<li id="Jn9Bh9">
<strong>North Carolina Courage</strong> - This squad upset a shorthanded Kansas City Current team at home, but this is going to be a rough year for them. They are too young and are going to struggle as players are learning and adjusting to the NWSL. </li>
<li id="bkmh8n">
<strong>Orlando Pride</strong> - VP/GM Haley Carter and Seb Hines are going to make this team a competitor, but supporters have to be patient. It’s going to take years for this rebuild to be done properly. However, they have a lot of exciting young talent who will get better with more games. </li>
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<p id="KziIvn"><em><strong>NOTE</strong></em><em>: Power Rankings from 5-10 are going to be close all season. </em></p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="OLsALq">
<p id="MrSyCa"><em>What is your current NWSL power ranking? Let us know below in the comments!</em></p>
https://www.stumptownfooty.com/2023/3/28/23659335/nwsl-week-1-power-rankings-more-from-portlands-opening-day-winPhuocerman2023-03-26T16:16:46-07:002023-03-26T16:16:46-07:00Match Recap & Highlights: Portland Thorns 4, Orlando Pride 0
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<img alt="NWSL: Orlando Pride at Portland Thorns FC" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/d5JP81fR-wFCJxI012bGthIMlNA=/0x0:5900x3933/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/72117409/usa_today_20324912.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Troy Wayrynen-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>The Portland Thorns are finally back! They kicked off their 2023 NWSL season with 4-0 home win over Marta & the Orlando Pride. </p> <p id="HL0L3Z">The <a href="https://www.stumptownfooty.com">Portland Thorns</a> faced off against first year head coach Seb Hines & the <a href="https://www.themaneland.com">Orlando Pride</a> in their 2023 <a href="https://www.allforxi.com">NWSL</a> season opener at Providence Park. With Hina Sugita being moved to right winger, many fans were curious to see who would line up at as the two midfielders with Sam Coffey. Head Coach Mike Norris opted for Christine Sinclair and Crystal Dunn, leaving Rocky Rodriguez on the bench. After having a resurgent and career year in 2022, Rocky being on the bench shows how deep the Portland Thorns are in midfield. </p>
<p id="EYT1r0">If there was a David vs Goliath matchup in the NWSL, this would be it. The defending champions facing off against a team in a full rebuild.</p>
<p id="DxdtQ3">There was no chance the Portland Thorns would send the fans home without 3 points. They dominated this game from start to finish to win 4-0. </p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">OUR FIRST STARTING XI OF 2023 <a href="https://twitter.com/UnitusCCU?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UnitusCCU</a> x <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BAONPDX?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BAONPDX</a> <a href="https://t.co/QoLn9yUmx5">pic.twitter.com/QoLn9yUmx5</a></p>— Portland Thorns FC (@ThornsFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ThornsFC/status/1640084341576577025?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2023</a>
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<h1 id="yomG6K"><strong>Recap</strong></h1>
<p id="PJ1q4d"><strong>FIRST HALF</strong></p>
<p id="OE2EyZ">Portland dominated the early proceedings with Sophia Smith and crew having multiple shots and plenty of them on goal. Hina Sugita listed as the right winger, roamed early on and was playing more of a fourth midfielder. Her role up top will be very flexible and allow her tons of freedom to be herself. The connection between Hina and Dunn showed dividends early on. In the 16th minute, they had a great connection that led to Sinclair shot that was rebounded home by Morgan Weaver. </p>
<p id="80HBX9">The Thorns continued to ramp up their press all half and put their foot on the gas too. This team is absolutely ruthless when they sense any sort of weakness. </p>
<p id="V7FyWH">Sinclair rewarded Mike Norris’ decision to start her in the 22nd when she took the ball to the end line and hit a low cross into the box. That pass found Sophia Smith in stride who emphatically put it home. The Portland thorns were up 2-0 in the first 22 minutes. </p>
<p id="AKMXhr">We have been hoping Sam Coffey would get back into the <a href="https://www.starsandstripesfc.com">USWNT</a> picture because of her ability to “quarterback” the midfield at an elite level. Her playing as a 6 is an experience worth the price of any ticket. Coffey’s has world class awareness, vision, and ball control. That all shown through in the 31st minute, as she hit a pass to Sophia Smith in stride that almost got them a 3-0 lead. </p>
<p id="mW1gYP">Portland dictated play through midfield and it was evident that the Pride had no answers for it. They struggled to keep possession and create chances. The Thorns were in cruise control and had the game in their hands. </p>
<p id="dljuO5">At halftime Portland outshot Orlando 14-2 and had six corner kicks to three for the Pride. </p>
<p id="YMBGtY"><strong>SECOND HALF</strong></p>
<p id="4I7mti">Portland’s preseason performances are a thing of the past. They have been superb from the opening whistle and continuing on here. </p>
<p id="J4VgJL">After knocking on the door to start the half, they find it early in the 49th minute when Hina Sugita put home a rebound from Sophia Smith to get them the 3-0 lead. </p>
<p id="AEHMxd">The way this game was being played, 3-0 felt insurmountable with the Thorns looking for more. </p>
<p id="DQY3VF">The first subs were in the 63rd minute with Michele Vasconcelos on for Morgan Weaver and Olivia Moultrie on for Crystal Dunn. </p>
<p id="hlgoKN">Head Coach Mike Norris would put on his prized rookie, Izzy D’Aquila in the 77th minute. Reyna Reyes did not see time, but she is being brought back from injury slowly. She made two limited appearances in preseason, but will be ready to contribute when called upon. </p>
<p id="Vo91xn">Rocky Rodriguez would sub in the 81st minute for Sinclair. This sets up a likelihood of her starting the KC Current match next Saturday, if she is fully healthy. Could we see a timeshare between her and Sincy this season? </p>
<p id="sCcAgw">Portland outshot Orlando 12-7 in the second half.</p>
<p id="D7Gptt">The Pride played much better in the second half and created some good chances. Orlando has a lot of young and exciting players who will continue to grow.</p>
<p id="aFxvSz">Orlando has a long ways to go before they can content for the playoffs or a championship. Under the guidance of new VP/GM Haley Carter and HC Seb Hines, they will get there. </p>
<p id="cyOhgV">The 4-0 result was a fair result to the game that the Portland Thorns clearly dominated. </p>
<h1 id="nKoI4Y"><strong>Highlights</strong></h1>
<p id="oYNJSB"><strong>2’</strong> Sophia Smith with the backheel to Natu who springs the attack, resulting in Portland’s first corner and consecutive shots by Hina Sugita and Sam Coffey. </p>
<p id="SnImkc"><strong>3’</strong> Sophia Smith gets on the end of a corner but barely wide of the goal</p>
<p id="DtQtcL"><strong>10’</strong> Crystal Dunn eludes pressure and finds Morgan Weaver for a shot on goal. Dealt with by Moorhouse</p>
<p id="BTFaxN"><strong>11’</strong> Cluff receives a yellow for Orlando </p>
<p id="KNL4pe"><strong>16’ 1-0 Thorns! </strong>Sinclair gets off a good shot that Moorhouse can only manage to parry away to the onrushing, rebound finds Weaver who puts it away. This play was built by the amazing connection between Hina and Dunn. </p>
<div id="6gST9d">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">In this house we stan Morgan Weaver goals <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BAONPDX?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BAONPDX</a> <a href="https://t.co/sMwY0Xxszn">pic.twitter.com/sMwY0Xxszn</a></p>— Portland Thorns FC (@ThornsFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ThornsFC/status/1640102938789167104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2023</a>
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<p id="ictEsW"><strong>22’ 2-0 Portland!</strong> Sinclair gets to the endline and hits a perfectly weighted low cross back into the box to the reigning MVP! Sophia Smith slams it home to double the lead!</p>
<div id="yLuQnc">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Surprise it's Soph ♀️ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BAONPDX?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BAONPDX</a> <a href="https://t.co/ojA69fBP1y">pic.twitter.com/ojA69fBP1y</a></p>— Portland Thorns FC (@ThornsFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ThornsFC/status/1640104618201063425?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2023</a>
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<p id="cubMoO"><strong>31’</strong> Sam Coffey plays the absolutely perfect through ball to Sophia Smith who beats her defender and the goalkeeper, but hits the post on the finish. ALMOST!</p>
<p id="nOBi3d"><strong>35’</strong> Sincy heads the ball back into the box and finds Hubly who nearly puts it away. </p>
<p id="sHgFDf"><strong>38’ </strong>Rookie Messiah Bright nearly cuts the lead in half with a header off a well struck cross. Best sequence of the half from Orlando. </p>
<p id="UZVRMf"><strong>45’</strong> Dunn tries to spring the counterattack but gets fouled very hard and somehow doesn’t draw a yellow card. </p>
<p id="KnAvQk"><strong>Second Half</strong></p>
<p id="bdcDOX"><strong>49’ 3-0!</strong> Smith blasts a shot at goal that rebounds to Hina who puts the final touches into goal. HINA HIVE!</p>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">RT if you're in the HINA HIVE <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BAONPDX?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BAONPDX</a> <a href="https://t.co/ZTe2HM2LDb">pic.twitter.com/ZTe2HM2LDb</a></p>— Portland Thorns FC (@ThornsFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ThornsFC/status/1640115312078229504?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2023</a>
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<p id="XZA5iU"><strong>51’</strong> Kuikka plays the advantage and finds Hina in the box who lays it off to Dunn. Her shot is deflected, but the Thorns are looking for the finish. </p>
<p id="TGS51l"><strong>53</strong>’ Bella Bixby with the unbelievable save on Adriana’s excellent shot that nearly finds the bottom 90. </p>
<p id="e4YAdt"><strong>63’ </strong>The first subs of the night for Portland was Michele Vasconcelos on for Morgan Weaver and Olivia Moultrie on for Crystal Dunn. </p>
<p id="s9mwZN"><strong>70’</strong> Yellow card issued to Julie Doyle. She is going to be a very good player in this league. Doyle plays the game with no fear, speed, and a physicality that is insanely difficult to match.</p>
<p id="coFmAY"><strong>71’</strong> Yellow card issued to Seb Hines</p>
<p id="pKgzLU"><strong>72’</strong> Yellow card issued to Caitlyn Cosme who had to foul Sophia Smith who put a beautiful backheel and turn on her. </p>
<p id="XBl3SR"><strong>76’ 4-0 Smith with the assist!</strong> She dribbles past a few defenders in the box and finds Michele Vasconcelos for the finish!</p>
<div id="r50m6o">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Did someone say FOUR goals ‼️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BAONPDX?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BAONPDX</a> <a href="https://t.co/cgNAqN9aLt">pic.twitter.com/cgNAqN9aLt</a></p>— Portland Thorns FC (@ThornsFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ThornsFC/status/1640122113242611716?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2023</a>
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<p id="WDr7On"><strong>77’</strong> Izzy D’Aquila makes her NWSL regular season debut replacing Sophia Smith, who is on her way to a repeat MVP season. Meaghan Nally who scored the game winner in the opening preseason game subbed in for last year’s iron woman, Kelli Hubly. Nally has been an exceptional teammate and shined last year when given minutes.</p>
<p id="juz1fR"><strong>81’ </strong>Rocky Rodriguez in for Christine Sinclair. </p>
<p id="lqCsFE"><strong>83’</strong> Olivia Moultrie nearly hits the upper 90! She is a special, special player. </p>
<p id="Lkly3z"><strong>85’</strong> Izzy D’Aquila wins the header off the corner and nearly steers it in for a goal. Her aerial presence is going to pay dividends this year. </p>
<p id="deZW4l"><strong>86’</strong> Olivia Moultrie with another beautiful shot on goal but is pushed back by Moorhouse. Rocky tries to clean up the rebound, but the keeper comes up big again. </p>
<p id="rqbkbV"><strong>90’+ </strong>Julie Doyle puts a shot over the bar, but she has been a handful this half. </p>
<p id="9Zw5NY"><strong>90’+3</strong> Game ends with Portland winning 4-0. Good start to the season! Congrats to Mike Norris on his first head coaching win. </p>
<p id="V0LQu7"><strong>Player(s) of the Match:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li id="hNMqfn">Sophia Smith - Wreaked havoc all game long. If it wasn’t obvious by winning the MVP, she is the best player in NWSL. She scored a goal and recorded an assist. </li>
<li id="rDiRh5">Backline - Had little work to do, but they shut down any attack that came their way </li>
</ul>
<p id="rJYCVW">The Thorns will continue their campaign on Saturday April 1, in a rematch of the NWSL championship at Children’s Mercy Park as they travel to take on the Kansas City Current at 9:50 a.m. PT.</p>
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https://www.stumptownfooty.com/2023/3/26/23657365/match-recap-highlights-portland-thorns-4-orlando-pride-0Phuocerman2023-03-26T12:28:21-07:002023-03-26T12:28:21-07:00Match Thread: Thorns vs. Orlando Pride
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<img alt="NWSL: NWSL Preseason-OL Reign at Portland Thorns FC" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/yk0pdW5yfEVQ3Q8rd1q0apuqAfs=/0x0:4076x2717/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/72116964/usa_today_20278136.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Jaime Valdez-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p><em>The Champs are back!</em></p> <p id="ugt3zm">The wait is over: your defending 2022 <a href="https://www.allforxi.com">NWSL</a> champions are back!</p>
<p id="OYBIWy">The <a href="https://www.stumptownfooty.com">Portland Thorns</a> open their 2023 campaign against the <a href="https://www.themaneland.com">Orlando Pride</a> at Providence Park this afternoon. The Thorns featured a squad that is largely the same from when we last saw them raising that spatula-esque trophy, with some fresh young talent and a new head coach in tow.</p>
<h1 id="iJ1n55"><strong>Storylines so far</strong></h1>
<p id="zJFvMj">When last we saw the Thorns in action, they were raising a trophy.</p>
<p id="MlmGca">Portland emerged victorious last autumn, as they lifted the 2022 NWSL championship trophy for the third time, earning their third star. Since then, there has been minimal turnover and the Thorns return largely the same squad.</p>
<p id="mUTCwD">The biggest change is that head coach Rhian Wilkinson stepped down following the conclusion of the 2022 season, and <a href="https://www.stumptownfooty.com/2023/1/9/23547055/mike-norris-introduced-as-portland-thorns-fc-head-coach">assistant coach Mike Norris was appointed</a> to step up into the head coach role.</p>
<p id="cwDpKP">Personnel wise, the biggest lost for Portland was losing Janine Beckie: the Canadian winger <a href="https://www.stumptownfooty.com/2023/3/17/23645647/janine-beckie-suffers-torn-acl-will-miss-2023-season">tore her ACL in Portland’s second preseason match</a>, and will miss the 2023 season for club and country. Another loss was championship game standout Yazmeen Ryan, who was traded to Gotham FC this offseason.</p>
<p id="t2Q0uV">Outside of that, this is by and large the same talented crew that came out on top last year. NWSL MVP Sophia Smith is back and ready for more, and club stalwart Christine Sinclair is still just as hungry and focused as she has ever been. Throw in a full season of a healthy Crystal Dunn (in the midfield!), and this Portland team is primed and ready to start another campaign with more silverware as the goal.</p>
<p id="spbyMt">It all starts this afternoon against the Orlando Pride, a team that is looking to have a bounceback year after a disappointing 2022. Playing in Portland has not been kind to Orlando, so the home side will be heavily favored in this one.</p>
<h1 id="r3XwGo"><strong>Pregame reading</strong></h1>
<p id="9nkY2F">Phuoc has takeaways from all three of <a href="https://www.stumptownfooty.com/2023/3/13/23636900/thorns-preseason-2023-portland-thorns-1-racing-louisville-0">Portland’s</a> <a href="https://www.stumptownfooty.com/2023/3/16/23642469/thorns-2023-preseason-portland-thorns-4-u23wynt-1-sophia-smith-janine-beckie">preseason</a> <a href="https://www.stumptownfooty.com/2023/3/20/23646877/thorns-2023-preseason-portland-0-ol-reign-1">games.</a></p>
<p id="R8Aj2w">Phuoc also has <a href="https://www.stumptownfooty.com/2023/3/25/23655825/portland-thorns-2023-media-day-takeaways">takeaways from the Thorns’ media day</a> ahead of the season opener.</p>
<p id="A0La1P">And Melina has <a href="https://www.stumptownfooty.com/2023/3/26/23657236/match-preview-portland-thorns-vs-orlando-pride">your preview for Portland squaring off against a familiar opening day foe.</a></p>
<p id="HyLUg9">Oh, and you read the Stumptown crew’s thoughts on <em>that </em>kit <a href="https://www.stumptownfooty.com/2023/3/16/23642554/stumptown-footy-reacts-to-the-new-thorns-away-kit">here.</a></p>
<h1 id="4ljuna"><strong>How to watch</strong></h1>
<p id="Y7VBXz"><strong>Location: </strong>Providence Park | Portland, OR</p>
<p id="WflumA"><strong>Time: </strong>2 p.m. PT</p>
<p id="N7KTif"><strong>Watch: </strong>Paramount + (online)</p>
<h1 id="2Evdpn"><strong>Lineups</strong></h1>
<h3 id="PPCD2A"><strong>Portland Thorns</strong></h3>
<div id="HAen7x">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">OUR FIRST STARTING XI OF 2023 <a href="https://twitter.com/UnitusCCU?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UnitusCCU</a> x <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BAONPDX?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BAONPDX</a> <a href="https://t.co/QoLn9yUmx5">pic.twitter.com/QoLn9yUmx5</a></p>— Portland Thorns FC (@ThornsFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ThornsFC/status/1640084341576577025?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2023</a>
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<h3 id="6f0OvA"><strong>Orlando Pride</strong></h3>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">And now, the starters for your Orlando Pride <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PrideOrDie?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PrideOrDie</a> <a href="https://t.co/MylPEz9Q2F">pic.twitter.com/MylPEz9Q2F</a></p>— Orlando Pride (@ORLPride) <a href="https://twitter.com/ORLPride/status/1640085002791821312?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2023</a>
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https://www.stumptownfooty.com/2023/3/26/23657358/match-thread-thorns-vs-orlando-prideSam Svilar2023-03-26T10:13:38-07:002023-03-26T10:13:38-07:00Match Preview: Portland Thorns vs Orlando Pride
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<img alt="Portland Thorns vs Orlando Pride." src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/E9KFCYVfXaNEQiF44Bau_3TWqeE=/4x0:1138x756/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/72116722/champs.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Brad Mills. USA Today</figcaption>
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<p><em>The Thorns will open the season at home against Orlando Pride. </em></p> <p id="ZPML5t">Get hyped with us. The <a href="https://www.stumptownfooty.com">Portland Thorns</a> are back.</p>
<h2 id="BoWUgp"><strong>The perfect matchup?</strong></h2>
<p id="QnABu8">This game will mark the 4th time the Thorns open a season against Orlando. The previous meetings went all Portland’s way, with 2-1, 2-0, and 2-0 results.</p>
<p id="ngHgR3">The panorama for these teams couldn’t be more different. The Thorns are the reigning champions while Orlando is trying to rebuild itself after another forgettable season in 2022. </p>
<p id="utHOuG">Portland held an 8-0 global result against the Pride across two games (6-0 and 2-0) in 2022 and the odds for the visitors are not looking good since they haven’t won a season opener in their history while the Thorns have won all of them.</p>
<p id="P4ekfa">So in an answer to our question: this could be the perfect matchup for Portland to start their year strong, and also it could be disastrous for the Pride.</p>
<h2 id="J85iZ3"><strong>Records to break</strong></h2>
<p id="mNIZgt">Christine Sinclair keeps building her legacy in the <a href="https://www.allforxi.com">NWSL</a> and having scored in the two previous season openers, she could become the first player to score in three matches of this kind. </p>
<p id="ImtUSQ">The same can be said about Sophia Smith. The young goalscorer will be looking forward to having another great year after the amazing 2022 she had.</p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="Oct 29, 2022; Washington, D.C., USA; Portland Thorns FC forward Sophia Smith (9) celebrates scoring a goal against the Kansas City Current in the NWSL championship game at Audi Field. Mandatory Credit: Jessica Rapfogel-USA TODAY Sports" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/aSRZlxkwkabsWUd6su0ofKRBuaA=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/24537960/afc36530_57ec_11ed_956d_660e182a9bee.jpeg">
<cite>Credit: Jessica Rapfogel-USA TODAY Sports</cite>
<figcaption>Oct 29, 2022; Washington, D.C., USA; Portland Thorns FC forward Sophia Smith (9) celebrates scoring a goal against the Kansas City Current in the NWSL championship game at Audi Field. Mandatory Credit: Jessica Rapfogel-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p id="W87oPf">With the year about to start for this team, under a new coach, and with promising rookies included in the roster, there’s a lot to look forward to.</p>
<h2 id="M0A4gs"><strong>Availability report</strong></h2>
<p id="5td0oo">In case you missed it, J<a href="https://www.stumptownfooty.com/2023/3/17/23645647/janine-beckie-suffers-torn-acl-will-miss-2023-season">anine Beckie tore her ACL in pre-season</a> so she will miss the 2023 season. We wish her all the best on her way back to the field.</p>
<div id="NVwU8v">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="qme" dir="ltr"> <a href="https://t.co/U3xnK1qnt1">pic.twitter.com/U3xnK1qnt1</a></p>— Janine Beckie (@janinebeckie) <a href="https://twitter.com/janinebeckie/status/1636863437967073280?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 17, 2023</a>
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<p id="46BwfX">OUT: Tegan McGrady (Right Thigh), Janine Beckie (SEI - Right Knee)</p>
<p id="yMqmpY">QUESTIONABLE: Emily Menges (Right Thigh)</p>
<p id="dCw2q2">When will Menges be healthy again? That said, we have more questions.</p>
<p id="3y0Hr6">What formation will Mike Norris use this afternoon? What will be the starting XI? Will the Pride be able to cut their bad streak when it comes to season openers and cause the upset of the week? </p>
<p id="tEgaql">Tell us in the comments below!</p>
<p id="UVgnR9">The game can be watched on Paramount+ in the US, on TSN in Canada, and on <a href="http://watch.nwslsoccer.com">watch.nwslsoccer.com</a> for international fans. The match will kick off at 2 p.m. PT.</p>
https://www.stumptownfooty.com/2023/3/26/23657236/match-preview-portland-thorns-vs-orlando-prideMelina.Gaspar2023-03-25T16:22:58-07:002023-03-25T16:22:58-07:00Match Recap & Highlights: Portland Timbers 0 - 0 LA Galaxy
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<img alt="MLS: LA Galaxy at Portland Timbers" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/g89Q_WqCG6zHPZx-oZpqFbww9nQ=/0x0:3480x2320/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/72115151/usa_today_20318491.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p><em>A game of soccer was played in Portland. Not sure if anyone had any fun.</em></p> <p id="3jesH6">The <a href="https://www.stumptownfooty.com">Portland Timbers</a> drew with the <a href="https://www.lagconfidential.com">Los Angeles Galaxy</a> 0-0 in a sunny and chilly afternoon at Providence Park. Two more Timbers players went down with injury, as both Marvin Loria and David Bingham had to exit the game with what appeared to be hamstring injuries. Portland kept their first clean sheet since opening weekend, and also collected their first point since that first game.</p>
<h3 id="E2vKlv"><strong>Recap</strong></h3>
<p id="6bcDf3">Portland, still dealing with a myriad of injuries, rolled out an adjusted lineup which featured Nathan continuing to start at center forward, and second-year player Diego Gutierrez getting the nod for his first MLS start.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Here's how we go <br><br>▪️ First MLS start for Guti ☝️<br>▪️ Bingham in goal <br>▪️ Bonilla in the back <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RCTID?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RCTID</a> <a href="https://t.co/BYbbffXQ85">pic.twitter.com/BYbbffXQ85</a></p>— Portland Timbers (@TimbersFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/TimbersFC/status/1639719313631498243?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2023</a>
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<p id="ZZaniM">Giovanni Savarese opted for David Bingham in goal, and Homegrown ‘keeper Hunter Sulte was on the bench as the backup. Aljaz Ivacic was a healthy scratch — and was reportedly not happy with the decision.</p>
<div id="IPBVJG">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Aljaz Ivacic: “I’ve been ready and healthy since game one. Everything else you’re gonna hear is a lie.” <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RCTID?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RCTID</a></p>— Ryan Clarke (@RyanTClarke) <a href="https://twitter.com/RyanTClarke/status/1639730692459495424?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2023</a>
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<p id="nLb5tX">Under the early spring sunshine with the chill of winter still in the air, the Timbers got the game underway.</p>
<p id="z3G0ON">With two squads that were missing as many players as Portland and LA were, it was not the most aesthetically pleasing match. The visitors had the better of the early running, forcing a leaping fingertip save from Bingham and sending a shot pinging off the far post.</p>
<p id="eY4juc">It was another discouraging half for Portland from an attacking perspective, as the home side couldn’t generate any kind of consistent offense, and registered just a single shot in the opening frame. The closest they came was when Nathan found himself free in the box with the ball at his feet — but the sequence ended with Nathan losing the ball and getting shown a yellow card.</p>
<p id="a8nCAH">The first half came to a close, with the sole highlights being Bingham’s fingertips. They were also the only reason Portland remained in the game, as their offense was still missing in action.</p>
<p id="xc3YnU">The Timbers showed slightly more life offensively coming out of halftime, with Santiago Moreno getting on the end of a slick passing move and sending his shot over the bar.</p>
<p id="iKpfLC">But the game quick regressed into the choppy affair it was for the first half. The main highlights of the first thirty minutes of the second half were the smattering of yellow cards, which were shown liberally to both teams.</p>
<p id="38Yd6c">It appeared that the game was set to wind down and close with a whimper, especially after Marvin Loria had to leave game with yet another lowe-leg injury suffered by a Timbers player.</p>
<p id="QP9Fz8">That is, until all hell broke out at the very end of the game.</p>
<p id="mTIcN8">The final minutes of regulation and stoppage time were a wild few minutes, with Portland nearly finding the net multiple times through attempts from Jaroslaw Niezgoda and Justin Rasmussen. There were wild crosses, defensive errors, and point blank stops as Portland found renewed energy to push for a winner, seemingly out of nowhere.</p>
<p id="4GoRvn">The very end was marred by another unfortunate injury however, as Bingham went down clutching <em>his</em> hamstring after coming out to clear a ball off an attacker (who was ruled offside). With the Timbers out of subs, Justin Rasmussen had to put on the gloves and play in goal for the closing seconds.</p>
<p id="MshT2R">Despite the wild final push, the final whistle blew and the game ended with spoils shared and 0-0 the scoreline. Portland couldn’t score, but they picked up their first clean sheet and point since opening weekend.</p>
<p id="NSwzJy"><strong>Highlights</strong></p>
<p id="TS0m6u"><strong>2’</strong> A nice early moment for Diego Gutierrez, who got stuck in and nearly forced a turnover in front of LA’s goal.</p>
<p id="js5n8y"><strong>6’ </strong>SAVE! David Bingham with a heroic leaping save to touch a shot from the top of the box over the bar with them ‘tips.</p>
<p id="4FOY8m"><strong>14’ </strong>A defensive breakdown from Portland that included multiple defenders getting out-muscled for the ball led to Preston Judd sending a shot just off of the far post, in the best chance of the early going.</p>
<p id="uQsHh9"><strong>25’ </strong>Nathan went down in the box off a sliding challenge from Martin Caceres, which was initially called a clean challenge, and drew shouts for a penalty kick from Timbers players and fans alike. After a brief VAR review, the call stood and play resumed. In this humble blogger’s opinion, the reasoning behind such a decision seemed... dubious.</p>
<p id="GbOrtM"><strong>29’</strong> ANOTHER SAVE! Bingham get his fingertips to another long-range curler, this time denying Riqui Puig from distance.</p>
<p id="QAJKIx"><strong>38’ </strong>Nathan Fogaca is shown the game’s first yellow card, presumably for colliding with Klinsmann as he leapt and flying at the endline. Nathan had the ball in the box in space, but took a heavy touch instead of shooting and lost the ball in the end.</p>
<p id="135thH">The closing minutes of the first half got chippy, with hard challenges and fouls flying both directions. The Galaxy players in particular were very inclined to voice their displeasure with the referee.</p>
<p id="x428IJ"><strong>HALFTIME: </strong>The first forty-five minutes ended with the teams knotted at zeroes. Portland registered just a single (blocked) shot, while the Galaxy managed 11. The Timbers also could manage just 28% of possession... at home. </p>
<p id="qKqNou">Out of all of the halves of soccer the Timbers have played... that was certainly one of them.</p>
<p id="KFT7b9">After the halftime whistle blew, Puig was shown a yellow card for continuing his remonstrations.</p>
<p id="8Km6Ti"><strong>46’ </strong>The second half got underway with Portland attacking the Timbers Army.</p>
<p id="ksforj"><strong>48’ </strong>Lucas Calegari was shown a yellow card for a late challenge, becoming the second Galaxy player to go in the book.</p>
<p id="NlJsoN"><strong>55’ </strong>Moreno got on the end of a ball at the top of the box after a nice attacking sequence (!!) from the Timbers, but he sent his shot well and high and wide</p>
<p id="azTM7M"><strong>56’</strong> Pablo Bonilla went into the book after being shown a yellow card for a late challenge on Puig.</p>
<p id="SNhCRe"><strong>57’ </strong>The Galaxy rattled the post again, as Rodriguez pinged one off the near post off a free kick.</p>
<p id="cf3THu"><strong>60’ </strong>The referee sure found his cards in the second half, as Tyler Boyd went into the book for LA after clattering into Moreno.</p>
<p id="Gbippk"><strong>66’ </strong>Claudio Bravo is shown a yellow card for stepping on Calegari’s foot.</p>
<p id="ahYfbr"><strong>67’</strong> Portland made the first substitution of the game, as Eric Miller made his Timbers debut, subbing on for Bonilla.</p>
<p id="CQgUOt"><strong>69’ </strong>Stop me if you’ve heard this before, but a player was shown a yellow card. This time it was Memo Rodriguez for LA, as he clattered into Bravo to stop what looked to be a nice foray forward from the Timbers.</p>
<p id="93As2a"><strong>75’ </strong>Double-sub for the Timbers, as Jaroslaw Niezgoda came on for Nathan and Tega Ikoba replaced Moreno.</p>
<p id="BQl513"><strong>79’ </strong>Marvin Loria went down off the ball, and appeared to be clutching his right hamstring. Portland made their final sub to replace him, introducing Justin Rasmussen to the game.</p>
<p id="IA0fJg"><strong>82’ </strong>Jalen Neal was shown a yellow card for attempting to drag back Ikoba on the break. Neal was not successful, but the referee stopped play anyway.</p>
<p id="BUHoHN"><strong>89’ </strong>Niezgoda nearly went from goat to G.O.A.T. as a cross from Miller fell to Jaro in the box. Niezgoda’s shot couldn’t beat Klinsmann however, as the LA ‘keeper made the point blank save.</p>
<p id="sF2vQQ"><strong>90’</strong> Rasmussen now nearly became the hero, as he collected a shanked clearance at the top of the box — but sent his shot well high and into the stands.</p>
<p id="JJUFeN"><strong>90’+2</strong> Niezgoda got his head on the end of a corner kick, but sent it just wide of the goal.</p>
<p id="ZClo8N"><strong>90’+4 </strong>Bingham flew off his line to clear a ball after Preston Judd streaked in behind. Bingham stayed down and immediately grabbed at his, you guessed it, hamstring. </p>
<p id="cMh3ZW">With Bingham unable to continue, and the Timbers out of substitution opportunities, outfield player Justin Rasmussen had to put on the goalkeeper gloves for the final minutes. Thankfully, he wasn’t tested before the game ended.</p>
<p id="WioDlb"><strong>FULLTIME: </strong>Timbers 0, Galaxy 0. The game ended in a goalless draw, despite the wild last-minute push from Portland. </p>
<p id="0dZK7N">It was an ultimately frustrating afternoon for the Timbers, as they were unable to score in a match for the first time in nearly a year. They did however keep their first clean sheet since the home opener, and picked up their first point since that opening weekend. But in all in all, it was dull affair in the sun and cold at Providence Park.</p>
<p id="lDFCBU">Portland will next be in action as they head to Texas to face <a href="https://www.bigdsoccer.com">FC Dallas</a> on April 1, at 5:30 p.m. PT.</p>
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https://www.stumptownfooty.com/2023/3/25/23656576/match-recap-highlights-portland-timbers-0-0-la-galaxySam Svilar2023-03-25T11:30:00-07:002023-03-25T11:30:00-07:00Match Thread: Timbers vs. LA Galaxy
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<img alt="MLS: Preseason-LA Galaxy at Portland Timbers" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/FpvQOktXXAJHZFEQIAiAS671BQQ=/0x415:3311x2622/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/72114467/usa_today_19984869.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p><em>Two teams who have stumbled out of the gates meet as Portland hosts LA.</em></p> <p id="QSW8Vi">After a five goal shelling suffered in Georgia, the <a href="https://www.stumptownfooty.com">Portland Timbers</a> (1-3-0) will have to have a short memory and put that loss behind them as they welcome the <a href="https://www.lagconfidential.com">Los Angeles Galaxy</a> (0-1-2) to Providence in a big early season Western Conference clash.</p>
<h1 id="iJ1n55"><strong>Storylines so far</strong></h1>
<p id="YpM9oc">So, uh, yeah, last Saturday wasn’t great. Portland looked disorganized and unmotivated as the goals kept pouring in in Atlanta. A defeat at the hands of one of the hottest teams in the league may have been expected, but nothing like <em>that. </em>It was an uninspiring and dispiriting performance from a team that has decidedly fallen into yet another early season slump.</p>
<p id="W1VFQG">The good news is that Portland is back at home. The bad news is that they’re pretty much still just as banged up as last week.</p>
<div id="m45qky">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RCTID?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RCTID</a> injury updates (via Gio):<br><br>Asprilla/Ayala: “Possibly playing next weekend.”<br><br>Mora: “Progressing well. Can’t give you a timeline.”<br><br>Blanco: “We’ll see how he feels.”<br><br>Paredes/Yimmi: “Earlier than we thought, but we need to be careful.”<br><br>Evander: “Hopefully by next week.”</p>— Ryan Clarke (@RyanTClarke) <a href="https://twitter.com/RyanTClarke/status/1638985094206730241?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 23, 2023</a>
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<p id="io0s3q">Head coach Giovanni Savarese will have his hands full yet again as he juggles absences to put the best team on the field, while also adjusting his team to ensure that they improve on last week’s dismal display.</p>
<p id="YbNoEw">That team will face an LA Galaxy side that also has stumbled out of the gates. LA has scored just two goals through three games and has yet to win. Today is their third away day in four games, and they are also dealing with their own rash of absences.</p>
<p id="vBnbMB">Those include star forward Chicharito, who is still out with an injury (suffered in preseason against the Timbers), breakout striker Dejan Joveljic, who is away on international duty, and starting goalkeeper Johnathan Bond, who is also out with an injury.</p>
<p id="ExC6FO">Still, the Galaxy cannot be counted out. They have the mercurial and talented Riqui Puig in the squad, and plenty of other talented players who can hurt Portland — especially if the Timbers don’t correct their gappy backline and inconsistent pressing from last week.</p>
<p id="UrdbaI">Both Portland and LA are early seasons strugglers. Today’s clash will help tell us a lot about the prospects of the next few months for both these teams — for better or worse.</p>
<h1 id="r3XwGo"><strong>Pregame reading</strong></h1>
<p id="jJtDQW">If you dare to relive the high-, er, lowlights of last weekend, Alex has your recap <a href="https://www.stumptownfooty.com/2023/3/18/23646756/match-recap-highlights-atlanta-united-5-1-portland-timbers">here.</a></p>
<p id="Wtazaf">If you want to read up on what to expect this afternoon, Sam has your match preview <a href="https://www.stumptownfooty.com/2023/3/24/23655100/timbers-vs-la-galaxy-match-preview-clash-of-the-strugglers">here.</a></p>
<h1 id="4ljuna"><strong>How to watch</strong></h1>
<p id="Y7VBXz"><strong>Location: </strong>Providence Park | Portland, OR</p>
<p id="WflumA"><strong>Time: </strong>1:30 p.m. PT (kickoff set for 1:55 p.m. PT)</p>
<p id="N7KTif"><strong>Watch: </strong><a href="https://tv.apple.com/sporting-event/umc.cse.33igukej9q8kjct8iq0xwlval?at=1010lGbf&ct=s_mls_partner_digital_gp&itscg=80103&itsct=s_mls_partner_digital_gp"><strong>MLS Season Pass on Apple TV (Free), </strong></a>FOX</p>
<p id="dkXVvN"><strong>Listen: </strong>750 The Game (English), La GranD 1150AM/93.5 FM (Spanish)</p>
<h1 id="2Evdpn"><strong>Lineups</strong></h1>
<h3 id="PPCD2A"><strong>Portland Timbers</strong></h3>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Here's how we go <br><br>▪️ First MLS start for Guti ☝️<br>▪️ Bingham in goal <br>▪️ Bonilla in the back <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RCTID?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RCTID</a> <a href="https://t.co/BYbbffXQ85">pic.twitter.com/BYbbffXQ85</a></p>— Portland Timbers (@TimbersFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/TimbersFC/status/1639719313631498243?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2023</a>
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<h3 id="EdNhq9"><strong>LA Galaxy</strong></h3>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Your Los Angeles Galaxy ❤️<br><br> <a href="https://t.co/uirqE1AH07">https://t.co/uirqE1AH07</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LAGalaxy?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LAGalaxy</a> x <a href="https://twitter.com/ModeloUSA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ModeloUSA</a> <a href="https://t.co/m1nQB5UHqb">pic.twitter.com/m1nQB5UHqb</a></p>— LA Galaxy (@LAGalaxy) <a href="https://twitter.com/LAGalaxy/status/1639718759832358912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2023</a>
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https://www.stumptownfooty.com/2023/3/25/23656317/match-thread-timbers-vs-la-galaxySam Svilar2023-03-25T09:13:00-07:002023-03-25T09:13:00-07:00Portland Thorns 2023 Media Day Takeaways
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<img alt="NWSL: NWSL Preseason-OL Reign at Portland Thorns FC" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/prCdRjOvOqViWi4lq3vlz6xE-n0=/0x0:6478x4319/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/72114134/usa_today_20268923.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Troy Wayrynen - USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Ahead of the 2023 NWSL Season, Stumptown Footy’s Phuoc Nguyen (Fook Win) attended the Media Day for the Portland Thorns and has a few takeaways to share. </p> <p id="OJI4qB">The defending <a href="https://www.allforxi.com">NWSL</a> champions, the <a href="https://www.stumptownfooty.com">Portland Thorns</a>, open up their 2023 regular season at home against the <a href="https://www.themaneland.com">Orlando Pride</a> on Sunday afternoon. They held a Media Day for members of the press to attend and hear from the team days before they kick off their 2023 campaign.</p>
<p id="w3Fb0F">Stumptown Footy’s Phuoc Nguyen (Fook Win) attended, and here are his takeaways from the press conferences with head coach Mike Norris, and star players Sophia Smith and Christine Sinclair.</p>
<h2 id="gKQ4t5"><strong>Takeaways</strong></h2>
<ul>
<li id="7xaRgd">Sophia Smith was in training on Friday, and she looks to be ready for home opener.</li>
<li id="VBuhLi">Reyna Reyes’ contract situation is still up for air. Head coach Mike Norris hopes she’ll be signed and available for Sunday’s home opener. </li>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Mike Norris on whether Reyna Reyes will be signed and available for Sunday: “I hope so.” <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BAONPDX?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BAONPDX</a></p>— Ryan Clarke (@RyanTClarke) <a href="https://twitter.com/RyanTClarke/status/1639357470014599168?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2023</a>
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<ul><li id="PLpdne">Norris on leading his side in his first official game:</li></ul>
<p id="guOwX2">“This is nerve-racking, but it’s exciting as well. I think it’s pretty cool, I get to embrace that part... It’s going to be exciting. To be back in front of the home crowd again after the championship win. To feel that again is pretty cool and exciting, but at the same time we have to get on task for what’s coming for the season.”</p>
<ul><li id="2KHPWb">Keys to getting a win against Orlando in home opener:</li></ul>
<p id="qIngoW">“Start from the first whistle. If I look over at first three preseason games, I wouldn’t say we started poorly. We started fairly well, in terms of 2 of the 3 games, in the first 15 minutes. [We] will be looking for the kind of start. Just a performance over 90 minutes, not 45. The more minutes we can play over them, the better... Truly step onto the field from the first whistle, show up who we want to be.”</p>
<ul>
<li id="cfLvgC">On what to expect from Orlando: Norris wishes there were more tape on the new look Orlando Pride with Seb Hines at the helm. The Pride’s last loss in Portland was a 0-5 trouncing which was a turning point for them. However, he is expecting a hungry team to show up with nothing to lose. </li>
<li id="4jKLyN">Norris shared that his playing philosophy is to utilize the width of the field more, but playing centrally when it is given. </li>
<li id="cdghOC">Natalia “Natu” Kuikka is a right back on this team. He does not envision her playing center back the way she does for the Finnish national team.</li>
<li id="65IpEQ">Sinclair may be Smith’s number one fan. She speaks glowingly of her talent and the future she has in front of her. </li>
<li id="9jNzO6">Sincy is a Portlander for life!</li>
<li id="dqIDCu">Sophia Smith’s drive and motivation is second to none. She absolutely wants to achieve everything in her career and win everything. </li>
<li id="MwaxzY">Smith’s attempt of getting Sincy to join their pottery painting class was unsuccessful. </li>
<li id="GKm5mu">Crystal Dunn is a midfielder. Norris and Dunn had conversations regarding her fit and they believe this is where she is best. He expects her to be more of an attacking midfielder who can link to the wide players, break lines, and connect play. </li>
<li id="WAR6yZ">Hina Sugita projects as Portland’s starting right winger. Without Janine Beckie, Portland is playing shorthanded in the wings. An encouraging sign on that front is that second year player Natalie Beckman is now listed as a forward. Her ability to dribble and cross the ball make her a natural fit on the wing. </li>
<li id="7O9xb2">Portland Thorns’ Best FIFA 23 video game player is... no one? Unfortunately, we don’t know who the greatest Thorns FIFA player is.</li>
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<p id="n7cM2G">If you’d like to see Head Coach Mike Norris’ full presser: <a href="https://youtube.com/watch?v=giCiA2Pb8LI&si=EnSIkaIECMiOmarE">HERE</a>!</p>
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<h3 id="XTsGLX"><em>First Media Day for Stumptown Footy’s Phuoc Nguyen (Fook Win)</em></h3>
<p id="iwLn9S"><em>It was the first media day for me and representing Stumptown Footy is a complete honor! </em></p>
<p id="bb23cA"><em>Will you be at the home opener on Sunday? Let us know in the comments!</em></p>
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https://www.stumptownfooty.com/2023/3/25/23655825/portland-thorns-2023-media-day-takeawaysPhuocerman