Under a sunny, cloudless sky the Timbers continued their training today, focusing on one and two touch passing and possession.
Troy Perkins was mysteriously absent but Futty Danso continued his recover from injury, working with the full team for much of the practice.
More notes plus quotes from John Spencer after the jump.
Still away on international duty were Lovel Palmer, Steve Purdy, James Marcelin, and Rodney Wallace.Adin Brown remained out of practice after picking up an injury in last week's reserve game while fellow goalkeeper Troy Perkins was given the day off to rest his sore hip.
Futty Danso practiced with the team until the final drill, a half field 9v9 game of keep-away.
Jack Jewsbury once again looked calm and composed playing one touch passes in practice. He never seems to throw his hands up in frustration when someone misses a pass or does not make a run.
Eric Alexander's passing looked much improved over Monday's practice, particularly in tight spaces where he was able to work the ball well.
Quotes
Coach John Spencer:
On Philadelphia Union keeper Zac MacMath:
"This kid has played before. We actually watched him play over the weekend. He's got an old head on young shoulders."
On the Timbers benefitting for a long break to get healthy:
"I'll tell you on Monday. If we don't lose I'll tell you it has been beneficial."
On the Timbers playoff hopes:
"If you had said to us in the start of the season, eight games to go and you are still within a shout of the playoffs, would you have taken it, everybody associated with the club would have taken it."