It is finally game day again and all of Portland is looking to wash the bitter taste of losing from their mouths. The LA Galaxy will be a tough test for the reeling Portland Timbers, but it can be done.
Assessing the Timbers:
With the return of Hanyer Mosquera, the backline should be a little more solid, but with Rodney Wallace out with injury Mike Chabala needs to step up and show he deserves his starting role back. It is doubtful that Spencer replaces Lovel Palmer, and if he does whoever it is needs to return Spencer's faith with production.
Portland needs to start and finish strong and play a complete 90 minutes to win today.
Assessing the Enemy:
LA is in the same position as Portland coming into this game, and they too are looking to end a streak of poor play. If LA comes out and gets the early lead, it could be lights out for Portland and another road loss. Look for Landon Donovan and David Beckham to take over early and put the pressure on Portland.
LA Defense is weaker than last years stingy defense with the loss of Omar Gonzalez but their offense is still very potent. If LA plays to their potential they should win today but Portland is just as desperate for a win.
Kick off at 7:30 on Root Sports KPDX TV. Join us for match commentary on this thread.
Timbers Starting XI: Perkins; Purdy, Mosquera, Brunner, Chabala; Alhassan, Jewsbury, Chara, Alexander; Nagbe, Boyd
Galaxy Starting XI: Saunders; Dunivant, Meyer, Lopes, Franklin; Magee, Beckham, Juninho, Donovan; Barrett, Keane