Major Pity Shortage in the Rose City as Timbers Score 5
The Timbers put on a great display at PGE Park tonight to beat the Milwaukee Rampage 5 - 2 in front of a large, noisy crowd. The Timbers got a flyer as Mark Baena ran onto Jeff Clarke's hooked overhead pass, beating Rampage keeper Henry Ring to make the score 1 - 0. The Rampage equalized on 10' after Matt Napoleon couldn't hold Radoncic's shot and Judah Cooks put away the rebound, 1 - 1.With the Timbers exerting pressure and keeping possession well, the Rampage had a chance on 24' after Godoy's pass with the outside of the boot put Hayes through. Gavin Wilkinson's pleas for offside went unheard and Napoleon had to make a great save at Hayes' feet. Then on 31' Greg Howes picked up a cleared corner at the edge of the box, ran to his right and unleashed a shot past Ring to make the score 2 - 1. Then on 39' a move which included at least 10 passes (tune in to the full match report for a list!) which ended with Matt Chulis' cross from the left, being headed home at the far post by Greg Howes. The teams went in at the half with the Timbers up 3 - 1!!
The Timbers started the second half looking a bit messy as the Rampage had their best spell of the game. Napoleon made a great save from substitute Charlton on 59' and the Timbers gradually regained their dominance. The game continued with Clarke's great cross from the right with Benedetti sliding in at the far post on 60' and the Rampage getting some fresh legs through substitutions. On 71' the Timbers made it 4. Costigan's ball from the left into O'Neill. Micheal past one defender, cut inside another and a cool finish into the corner for one of the best goals of the season!! 4 flippin' 1! Lewis, who replaced Howes on 79', then won a penalty after a push by Dombrowski (the Rampage arguing vehemently with the referee and linesman that the offence occurred outside the box). As the firecracker from the Woodshed fizzled out, Michael O'Neill stepped up and cool as the proverbial cucumber stroked the ball into the net to make the score 5 - 1. The Rampage made a late burst, Radoncic deflecting Hayes' free kick towards goal, but Napoloen making his (by now expected) late game acrobatic diving save, and then on 87' Slivinski picked up a cleared free kick and beat Napoleon inside the right hand post from long range to make the score a...well still disrespectable actually...5 - 2!! With kids rushing to join a long line waiting for the post-game autograph session, the final whistle went to give the Timbers a 5 - 2 win and 5 well deserved points.
Full Match Report
More news on tonight’s Milwaukee game. No Digital Takawira, he is suffering from a sore left ankle and didn’t make the trip westwards. No Igor Soso (yellow card points), no brother Alen (broken foot), no Peter Henning (broken toe). Henry Ring will start in goal.
...and reports of a flu bug in the Timbers camp!! Jeff Clark, Gavin Wilkinson, Greg Howes and Keith Costigan all missing training this week.
posted by the timberlog at 11:55 AM...and reports of a flu bug in the Timbers camp!! Jeff Clark, Gavin Wilkinson, Greg Howes and Keith Costigan all missing training this week.
Wednesday, August 29, 2001
As promised the official suspension information:
Michael O'Neill will miss the game against San Diego on Sept 7th (21 points)
Igor Soso for Milwaukee will be unavailable for tomorrow night's game.
posted by the timberlog at 8:17 PMMichael O'Neill will miss the game against San Diego on Sept 7th (21 points)
Igor Soso for Milwaukee will be unavailable for tomorrow night's game.
Tuesday, August 28, 2001
Team Sheets! Lovely Warm Team Sheets!! - To make up for the lack of a team sheet for Sunday's game (sorry!) here is one for Thursday's clash with the Milwaukee Rampage a whole 2 days early...er...of course that may mean it will contain out of date information by then...but no matter!
For those of you new to this, print it out, take it to the game. It makes a great alternative to trying to recognize the players from the team photo (like the 2 dipsticks in front of me on Sunday were doing while watching Dan Moss warm up at half time)! "Why is...[looks down at photo]...Sancho in a goalkeepers kit??"
posted by the timberlog at 4:53 PMFor those of you new to this, print it out, take it to the game. It makes a great alternative to trying to recognize the players from the team photo (like the 2 dipsticks in front of me on Sunday were doing while watching Dan Moss warm up at half time)! "Why is...[looks down at photo]...Sancho in a goalkeepers kit??"
By my calculations (you at the back! Don't laugh!) both Brian Winters and Michael O'Neill are facing a 1-game suspension for reaching 21 points. I'll keep you posted, dear reader, when the timberlog gets official confirmation on this.
posted by the timberlog at 12:25 AMMonday, August 27, 2001
A minor clearance to the log-jam...Charlotte Match Report
Watch out! There go the floodgates! Charleston Match Report
posted by the timberlog at 12:10 PMWatch out! There go the floodgates! Charleston Match Report
Sunday, August 26, 2001
Timbers Drain Battery
The Timbers ran out easy winners 2 - 0 this afternoon at PGE Park against a disappointing Charleston Battery. The Timbers opened their account on 6' after a great run in from the left wing by Keith Costigan and a deep cross found Greg Howes who beat keeper Hudock. A perfect start! The Timbers had so much possession early on, but often could not find the incisive final ball, but on 24' the Timbers increased their lead. A long ball to O'Neill at the left side of the box. He hooked the ball over the defenders head and was pulled down earning the deserved penalty. O'Neill put the kick away in the right corner to make the score 2 - 0. There were a few anxious minutes after Matt Napoleon was injured saving at the feet of a Battery forward, but fortunately he was OK to continue. The second half continued in the same pattern. The Timbers with all the possession and the Battery attack blunted by the Timbers impressive back-line. The Timbers pressed late in the game looking for the bonus point, but Greg Howes shot at Hudock and Baena shot over. With Napoleon making a great late save from Cozier to wrap up a fine Timbers defensive performance the game ended 2 - 0 and gave 4 more important points to the Timbers.
Friday, August 24, 2001
6 Goals at PGE Park as Timbers and Eagles Split 4 points
The Timbers ended up with a 3 - 3 draw at PGE Park tonight, defensive errors and a penalty letting Charlotte back into a game the Timbers should have held onto.
The Timbers struck first on 19' when Greg Howes received the ball from a throw, quickly passed forward to Baena who ran on to the ball and volleyed past Adams from 10 yds. Charlotte had a slow first half, but had a good chance on 22' when Napoleon saved Swinehart's shot with his legs. The Timbers had a great chance on 32' after a long Napoleon kick found Howes, but he volleyed over the bar and the Timbers went in at half time probably disappointed that they hadn't increased their lead.
The second half started with Brent Sancho picking up a yellow on 59', Lewis replaced Costigan on 62' and on 66' the Timbers made it 2 - 0. A steal in midfield by Jeff Clarke put Mark Baena in down the left. His run and shot went off Adams' foot for the corner. From Howes' kick Wilkinson headed inside the left post to increase Portland's lead. A minute later however the Eagles struck back, Galeano's cross from deep on the left was met by Garjardo and poor marking allowed him a free header past Napoleon. 2 - 1. The Timbers hit right back on 69’ when O'Neill played a 1-2 with Lewis, found Baena on the right side of the box and his shot beat Adams to make the score 3 - 1 and give the Timbers their 2 goal cushion back. On 71' Ochoa replaced Chulis and then on 73' the Eagles got another goal back. The Timbers had had problems all night with corners and crosses and this time Napoleon couldn't claim Johnson's corner and after a scramble, Swinehart put the ball away to make the score 3 - 2. With the Eagles looking stronger as the game went on the referee judged that Wilkinson's challenge on Leib running into the area was unfair and awarded the Eagles a penalty. Garjardo scored to bring the scores level on 78'. The Timbers faced overtime for the second time in 3 days, Napoleon having to make a scrambling push away from Swinehart’s cross/shot from wide on the right. There were chances for Ochoa and 2 great turns by Howes in the left corner but as both teams tired the game ended 3 - 3, 2 points for both teams.
[full match report tomorrow]
Thursday, August 23, 2001
posted by the timberlog at 4:47 PM
Jeff Clarke Nets a Pair as the Timbers win in OT
Jeff Clarke set the Timbers off on the right track last night at PGE Park scoring twice as Portland beat the Thunder 2 - 1. On 21' Clarke's first after a Timbers corner was partially cleared, the Thunder hitting back on 28' after a long shot from Steve Armas beat Matt Napoleon. Then after 8' of overtime Clarke again beat Warren, heading over the keeper from a Costigan cross. A nice start to the playoff run-in at a rain soaked PGE Park in front of an announced crowd of 4,924.
Brian Winters picked up a yellow card in the second half which takes him over 21 points and will cost him a 1-game suspension. (Not sure when that suspension will occur. He may be OK until the Milwaukee game.)
[match report soon...ish]
You want Media? We got it!
POOF! PORTLAND TIMBERS' LOSING STREAK VANISHES
PORTLAND 2, MINNESOTA 1 Clarke helps end Timbers' slide
Portland Spoils Thunder Playoff Hopes With 2-1 Overtime Victory
Wednesday, August 22, 2001
Media Watch - Timbers find their way home
Matt Napoleon in the Oregonian today on needing to win...
John Nolen also points out the Timbers poor goals scored and shots taken stats so far. Only Toronto's 17 is below the Timbers' 25 goals (same as Long Island). Long Island (185) is the only club with less shots taken than the Timbers (194).
Still time to improve that record though!
posted by the timberlog at 5:33 AMMatt Napoleon in the Oregonian today on needing to win...
"I don't think anyone feels backed into a corner, though. We're just excited to be home." (We need to) "kind of recommit ourselves to defense and that mentality"
John Nolen also points out the Timbers poor goals scored and shots taken stats so far. Only Toronto's 17 is below the Timbers' 25 goals (same as Long Island). Long Island (185) is the only club with less shots taken than the Timbers (194).
Still time to improve that record though!
Tuesday, August 21, 2001
Eisgekühlter Bommerlunder!!!
Germany's most popular punk rock band, Die Toten Hosen, have agreed today to be the new kit sponsors of former Bundesliga side Fortuna Duesseldorf. Whether or not the club's fans will appreciate the offer remains to be seen. Toten Hosen, which translates literally as "dead trousers", is a popular German expression for lifeless or boring. But it gets worse. The club will only get the dosh if they agree to have the band's logo on the kit: a grinning skull on a star. "We chose a smiling skull, so the DFB (German Football Association) can't complain," said the cunning Campino, lead singer of the Hosen. However, no sooner was the announcement made than advance orders were streaming in. Campino said he didn't care whether the team liked his band's style of aggressive thrash guitar music or not, as long as they improved on their current lowly position.
Guardian Football - Monday July 30, 2001
OK, so I added in a prediction page which is a guess (how I wish I could add in "educated" here) at every remaining A-League game and the resulting tables and playoff places. Judging by the timberlog's guesses over the weekend it's probably not that accurate, but fun nevertheless and you get a picture of how close everything is. I also added the list of USL Soccer's tiebreakers on the tables page.
posted by the timberlog at 2:53 PM
Team Sheet for Wednesday
If you're not familiar with the concept, or have forgotten in the 4 weeks since the last home game, the team sheet works like a low-rent matchday program. You don't get the full color glossy pictures, musings from the gaffer, views from local celebs or accurate team line-ups, but you do get some sarky comments and the world famous disclaimer. Swings and roundabouts...it's all swings and roundabouts. Print it off and you too can show off your in-depth knowledge (or come off like a complete and utter idiot) to the person in the seat next to you. "Well of course the key tonight is stopping Menyongar from letting loose his rocket-like shot".
posted by the timberlog at 12:01 AMIf you're not familiar with the concept, or have forgotten in the 4 weeks since the last home game, the team sheet works like a low-rent matchday program. You don't get the full color glossy pictures, musings from the gaffer, views from local celebs or accurate team line-ups, but you do get some sarky comments and the world famous disclaimer. Swings and roundabouts...it's all swings and roundabouts. Print it off and you too can show off your in-depth knowledge (or come off like a complete and utter idiot) to the person in the seat next to you. "Well of course the key tonight is stopping Menyongar from letting loose his rocket-like shot".
Sunday, August 19, 2001
Playoff Update
How I hate having to watch other club's results and the effect that has on the Timbers, but some unhelpful results this weekend.
Pittsburgh picked up 4 points at home to Rochester, who also failed on the road today at Montreal. Connecticut (probably too late for them as they have some tough games against Hershey and Rochester to finish the season) beat Milwaukee (six of one, half a dozen of the other on that one!), Charlotte beat Richmond and San Diego beat Vancouver. All those results boost teams that will be probably be fighting for those wild card playoff places with the Timbers. I’m sticking my neck out and saying that the Timbers need 59 points minimum. That would mean 17 from their remaining games letting them drop one game and split another (bonus points not included). It’s going to be tough. Beating a Minnesota side buoyed after their thrashing of the Liberian national side, but coming off a game in Seattle on Monday. Then 2 home games against in-form Central Conference teams Charleston and Charlotte. Then, Milwaukee at home and finishing with 2 tough road games in San Diego and El Paso. Lose another game and end up with 55 points and it’s going to be very tight. It might only get the Timbers 5th place in the Western and mean we lose out to Charlotte, Nashville, and Seattle for the wild card places.
It could all come down to a really exciting last weekend. Picture Pittsburgh and Montreal battling it out in the North, Seattle and Vancouver playing twice in 2 days, Nashville at Charleston and Atlanta at Charlotte in the Central and of course the Timbers at San Diego and El Paso!
posted by the timberlog at 4:28 PMHow I hate having to watch other club's results and the effect that has on the Timbers, but some unhelpful results this weekend.
Pittsburgh picked up 4 points at home to Rochester, who also failed on the road today at Montreal. Connecticut (probably too late for them as they have some tough games against Hershey and Rochester to finish the season) beat Milwaukee (six of one, half a dozen of the other on that one!), Charlotte beat Richmond and San Diego beat Vancouver. All those results boost teams that will be probably be fighting for those wild card playoff places with the Timbers. I’m sticking my neck out and saying that the Timbers need 59 points minimum. That would mean 17 from their remaining games letting them drop one game and split another (bonus points not included). It’s going to be tough. Beating a Minnesota side buoyed after their thrashing of the Liberian national side, but coming off a game in Seattle on Monday. Then 2 home games against in-form Central Conference teams Charleston and Charlotte. Then, Milwaukee at home and finishing with 2 tough road games in San Diego and El Paso. Lose another game and end up with 55 points and it’s going to be very tight. It might only get the Timbers 5th place in the Western and mean we lose out to Charlotte, Nashville, and Seattle for the wild card places.
It could all come down to a really exciting last weekend. Picture Pittsburgh and Montreal battling it out in the North, Seattle and Vancouver playing twice in 2 days, Nashville at Charleston and Atlanta at Charlotte in the Central and of course the Timbers at San Diego and El Paso!
Thursday, August 16, 2001
My, What a Busy Week
Hopefully the Timbers start to get some coverage in the Portland Mercury. The Timbers game on the 22nd against Minnesota made it onto their Arts and Entertainment Picks of the Week.
posted by the timberlog at 9:16 PMHopefully the Timbers start to get some coverage in the Portland Mercury. The Timbers game on the 22nd against Minnesota made it onto their Arts and Entertainment Picks of the Week.
Dear Timberlog, I don’t know what to do and I’m almost at the end of my tether! I have been seeing this person (although he’s so complex that sometimes I look at him like a whole bunch of people!) for nearly 4 months. When our affair started it was magical, sure there were some nerves on both our parts, but after our first real date I was on cloud nine. The excitement! The passion! I felt so alive. I felt like shouting from the rooftops! Then a period of domestic bliss where things were going so well (my friends were jealous!), but since then things have been on a rocky road downhill. First there is the issue of gifts. Now I’m not into the showy, glam side of a relationship, never been one for gold rings or diamond necklaces, but just occasionally a token of affection would be nice. At first he was talking about getting me some sort of silverware, but then he stopped mentioning it, it was like he didn’t even get as far as the store! There was a lot of talk about something better later in the year, but even mentions of that recently have been met with a harrumph, a shrug and a non-committal “lets wait and see”. Does he care about me at all? And then there are the trips out of town! He did explain at the start of our relationship that his work takes him on the road, but most times when he comes back he’s in the most foul mood imaginable and, just as bad, rarely brings a thing back (I’m not asking much, again I don’t want to sound like I’m in this relationship just for the rewards and gifts!!). Then there are the mood swings. One day he’s all defensive and then the next day he’s all hustle and bustle, except all his energy seems unfocused. I just want a bit of consistency that’s all! He’s been away on business again and is due back home any day now and instead of being wildly happy at his return I’m apprehensive. It shouldn’t feel like this should it. Some of my friends tell me it’s just a relationship and get used to the ups and downs, whilst others (my best friend for example) tell me that he’s an emotion-phobic and I should dump him for someone more in-tune with his feelings, someone who doesn’t mind showing his affection (with the occasional gift maybe!?). What do you think? Tormented in Tualatin Dear tormented in Tualatin I think that you are probably suffering from early-relationship syndrome. A great first few dates, a few nice evenings at home around the fire, a couple of drinks, a video, all homely and you think this is how it will be for evermore. Get Real! This is real life and a real person(s). Things will change. A new relationship, a new city, a new haircut, a new outfit, all this puts the spring in a step and a bounce in the heart, but things can’t go on like that forever. As for your attachment to material signs of his affection, sure I can sympathize, it’s nice to get some trinkets once in a while, but are you sure you haven’t missed any less obvious signs? He may be working hard at this, but not (sorry for the soccer metaphor!) hitting the back of the net, but he’s trying! As for his working away from home, sometimes being away from those who love you can be stressful and depressing. Hotel rooms, distractions, no support from his loved ones, (even though you may surprise him once in a while with a impromptu visit) This is especially true if things aren’t going right, but you need to show some support and show some optimism. I’m sure he’d like to come back to a sunny disposition and an optimistic outlook. Who knows, maybe things will click, a few things going his way and maybe you will be rewarded with your material things, but if not…hey, have a good time and live every minute as it comes. I think that dropping him now would say more about you than it does about him. Remember. Show him some support and judge by the big picture. In these pick-and-mix times integrity is all. timberlog |
Napoleon Gets Another Job!
Matt Napoleon has been appointed to Tara Bilanski's coaching staff at PSU for the Vikings upcoming season. The Vikings play at Tigard High School and have their first home game on Sunday Sept. 2 v Gonzaga (1pm).
posted by the timberlog at 6:53 PMMatt Napoleon has been appointed to Tara Bilanski's coaching staff at PSU for the Vikings upcoming season. The Vikings play at Tigard High School and have their first home game on Sunday Sept. 2 v Gonzaga (1pm).
Wednesday, August 15, 2001
The Timbers: A Tale of Woe?
Frogs or Princes? Willamette Week article on the ups and downs of the Timbers' season.
posted by the timberlog at 10:08 AMFrogs or Princes? Willamette Week article on the ups and downs of the Timbers' season.
Oregonian - Napoleon to Dallas
OK, you can breath easy, it's only on loan! Matt has been loaned to the Burn as back-up for 2 games in Columbus and Miami.
posted by the timberlog at 8:29 AMOK, you can breath easy, it's only on loan! Matt has been loaned to the Burn as back-up for 2 games in Columbus and Miami.
"Since we have 12 days off, and it was only for a week, we didn't see a problem," Portland general manager Jim Taylor said.
Monday, August 13, 2001
Time to close the mid-season MVP poll. Here are the top 3. Total votes 92.
posted by the timberlog at 11:36 AM |  | Vadim Tolstolutsky (36%) |
| | Matt Napoleon (30%) |
| | Gavin Wilkinson (10%) |
Saturday, August 11, 2001
Playoffs: You might have noticed by looking at the handy Timberlog playoff guide that the Timbers have fallen off the end of the pier (if the season finished today it would be one of those frustrating situations where Connecticut would beat us to the last spot even though the Timbers had more points because they finished in the top 3 in their conference!!)
The Timbers have a few things running to their advantage in the last few games. Obviously finishing in the top 3 in the West is preferable and this means that our games against Western opponents are the most important games. If we are going to drop points then let's do it against Charleston who are almost a sure-fire bet to claim a playoff place. Even if we finish 4th in the West we may still get the nod due to the fact that the West is a tight table compared to the North (Where Rochester and Hershey will probably run away with it). The Central is more problematic with Charlotte the wild card. Some good results by them and they could take another wild card place along with either Atlanta or Nashville (our game against them on Aug 24th could be v. important!). One other worry is a revitalized Leggy-led San Diego picking up some points against Vancouver, or even…gulp…the Timbers. Personally I’d like the Timbers to get 55 points at the very least, 13 from the last 6 games with the games against Milwaukee, San Diego and Charlotte being key (of course every game is important, but these hold other significance than just the plain result. OK, this is the timberlog so you knew there HAD to be a disclaimer, so here it is! Of course this picture could change especially if any team has a late run of particularly good or bad form so stay tuned.
posted by the timberlog at 4:12 PMThe Timbers have a few things running to their advantage in the last few games. Obviously finishing in the top 3 in the West is preferable and this means that our games against Western opponents are the most important games. If we are going to drop points then let's do it against Charleston who are almost a sure-fire bet to claim a playoff place. Even if we finish 4th in the West we may still get the nod due to the fact that the West is a tight table compared to the North (Where Rochester and Hershey will probably run away with it). The Central is more problematic with Charlotte the wild card. Some good results by them and they could take another wild card place along with either Atlanta or Nashville (our game against them on Aug 24th could be v. important!). One other worry is a revitalized Leggy-led San Diego picking up some points against Vancouver, or even…gulp…the Timbers. Personally I’d like the Timbers to get 55 points at the very least, 13 from the last 6 games with the games against Milwaukee, San Diego and Charlotte being key (of course every game is important, but these hold other significance than just the plain result. OK, this is the timberlog so you knew there HAD to be a disclaimer, so here it is! Of course this picture could change especially if any team has a late run of particularly good or bad form so stay tuned.
Friday, August 10, 2001
Spirited Performance but Timbers meet Jason Jordan in top form: Whitecaps 3 - 1 Timbers
With Bobby Howe playing a 4-4-2 formation (Chulis and Costigan getting the nod in defence, Brent Sancho suspended, Sawatzky up front with Howes) the Timbers were trying to erase the memory of the previous 4 - 0 defeat in Vancouver and put in a great first half performance despite falling behind.
A breakaway on 13' put Jason Jordan in 1-on-1 with Matt Napoleon after a slip by Scott Benedetti, but despite getting a hand on it Napoleon was beaten to give the Whitecaps the 1 - 0 lead. With the Timbers getting some nice possession the Whitecaps nearly made it two with another break, Jordan playing the ball into Kindel, but Napoleon making the point-blank save from 6 yds. With the Timbers getting the majority of the possession they hit back on 29' after a cross from Keith Costigan was headed by Greg Howes back over Sandhu and inside the far post to make the score 1 - 1.
The second half saw the Whitecaps coming back into the game, Jordan got in a shot on goal from a tight angle on 66’ and then on 70’ another Jordan’s shot was saved by Napoleon, but Morris was there to put in the rebound to give Vancouver the lead 2 – 1. Darin Lewis replaced Burciaga on 76’ to try and stop the Whitecaps increasing dominance and the Timbers’ central defenders Benedetti and Wilkinson began to push up looking for the equalizer. With 3 minutes to go the Timbers pressured hard in the Whitecaps box, but then on 89’ another Jordan break put in Kindel to make the score 3 – 1 and give the Whitecaps the bonus point.
...and it looks like Kevin Legg is back playing for San Diego. He is listed on their roster and apparently got their opening goal tonight against Minnesota!
He is Timbers' last line of defense
Front page of the Oregonian this morning, a profile of our keeper extraordinaire, MVP, defender wake-'em-up-shake-'em-up, Matt Napoleon. Nice!
posted by the timberlog at 9:11 AMFront page of the Oregonian this morning, a profile of our keeper extraordinaire, MVP, defender wake-'em-up-shake-'em-up, Matt Napoleon. Nice!
Thursday, August 09, 2001
posted by the timberlog at 4:36 PM
Wednesday, August 08, 2001
Vadim and Jesus play second half in Galaxy's 2 - 2 draw with Necaxa
Both Vadim Tolstolutsky and Jesus Ochoa played the second half of the LA Galaxy's international friendly with Mexican "powerhouse" (although every second team from Mexico appears to be a "powerhouse"!) Los Rayos de Necaxa in Sacramento last night in front of a gate of 10,000.
posted by the timberlog at 8:13 AMBoth Vadim Tolstolutsky and Jesus Ochoa played the second half of the LA Galaxy's international friendly with Mexican "powerhouse" (although every second team from Mexico appears to be a "powerhouse"!) Los Rayos de Necaxa in Sacramento last night in front of a gate of 10,000.
Tuesday, August 07, 2001
[Do the Media]
Timbers add defender Burciaga to final roster
...oh...and thanks for asking, Frederick "Toots" Hibbert and the Maytals were brilliant last night! (kept an eye out for Brent, but didn't see him!)
posted by the timberlog at 9:33 AMTimbers add defender Burciaga to final roster
...oh...and thanks for asking, Frederick "Toots" Hibbert and the Maytals were brilliant last night! (kept an eye out for Brent, but didn't see him!)
Monday, August 06, 2001
Portland Timbers add Jose Burciaga Jr. to Roster
The Timbers announced today that they were adding recent loan Jose Burciaga Jr. to their roster ahead of today's A-League roster freeze. The Kansas City Wizards defender/midfielder will be available on loan to the Timbers in the coming weeks.
"Bob Gansler, the head coach at Kansas City, has indicated that Jose could be made available on loan in the coming weeks," said Jim Taylor, Timbers general manager. "He'll be training with us again this week and will be available for selection in the Vancouver match on Friday. He certainly supplied us with a spark yesterday in a tough loss at Rochester."
It was also announced that Vadim Tolstolutsky and Jesus Ochoa have been loaned to the Los Angeles Galaxy for their exhibition match tomorrow night against Necaxa (Mexico) in Sacramento. Both Tolstolutsky and Ochoa will return to Portland in time for the Timbers crucial Western Conference match Friday night in Vancouver, BC against the Whitecaps.
[Media Watch]
ROCHESTER 1, PORTLAND 0 Timbers take Rhinos to overtime
One super ending for Rhinos, Mitchell
Spunky Schweitzer hurts ribs
and from that article in the Rochester Democrat and Chronicle...
Deep thoughts: Mark Baena, the A-League's career scoring leader, has wondered if choosing Portland over Rochester was the right decision.
"I've second-guessed my decision on that more than one occasion," he said.
The Rhinos talked contract with Baena last off-season but the California native, who has played for the California Jaguars, Seattle Sounders and last season in San Diego, chose to stay closer to home for business and family reasons. He and his wife live in San Diego.
The computer company for which Baena was an engineer has since had a management change and he no longer works there, he said. Baena did say he'd consider moving to the East Coast (read: Rochester) if he was approached again.
posted by the timberlog at 8:32 AMROCHESTER 1, PORTLAND 0 Timbers take Rhinos to overtime
One super ending for Rhinos, Mitchell
Spunky Schweitzer hurts ribs
and from that article in the Rochester Democrat and Chronicle...
Deep thoughts: Mark Baena, the A-League's career scoring leader, has wondered if choosing Portland over Rochester was the right decision.
"I've second-guessed my decision on that more than one occasion," he said.
The Rhinos talked contract with Baena last off-season but the California native, who has played for the California Jaguars, Seattle Sounders and last season in San Diego, chose to stay closer to home for business and family reasons. He and his wife live in San Diego.
The computer company for which Baena was an engineer has since had a management change and he no longer works there, he said. Baena did say he'd consider moving to the East Coast (read: Rochester) if he was approached again.
Sunday, August 05, 2001
East beats West:Rochester 1 - 0 Timbers (OT)
Coming off their loss in Toronto and with Jose Burciaga replacing suspended Scott Benedetti the Timbers took the field with Keith Costigan at left back, Jeff Clarke on the right in midfield and Baena and Howes up front.
A better start by the Timbers with Howes and Baena working well and Jeff Clarke getting a header saved by Vallow after a O’Neill free kick on 15’. Gavin Wilkinson picked up a yellow on 18’ and slowly, but surely, Rochester began to come into the game firing shot after shot on the Timbers goal. Mladenov shot into the side netting on 37’ and Trotman had the best chance for the Rhinos on 42’ coming onto a cross from Fletcher. The sides went in at the half 0 – 0, the Timbers having survived the Rhino’s pressure well.
The second half started with the Rhinos making some changes and getting their best chance on 55’ after a shot from a Mladenov corner was cleared off the line by Jeff Clarke. A good move by Burciaga on 65’ found Baena, but his shot from the left side of the box was wide. With Darin Lewis coming on for Baena on 78’ and immediately putting Howes through to shoot over, the game entered the last 10 minutes looking like overtime. With Greg Howes blasting a free kick through to Vallow on 84’ and the Timbers with their hearts in their mouths as the ref appeared to award a penalty on 86’ after a shot over by Wilson (just a mispointed goal kick though!!) the game ended 0 – 0 and overtime loomed.
With the Timbers attacking through, first Howes shooting at Vallow, then Burciaga's cross looking for Lewis, the first period started. Then on 94' a through ball from Mladenov found Mitchell sliding to the ball before Wilkinson and putting the ball past Napoleon to give Rochester the heart-breaking win 1 - 0.
"After defeated by North Korea in their first match, China's national team were criticized by fans and local media. The CFA's vice president Yan Shiduo order the team to win the match."
If only it were that easy!!
posted by the timberlog at 12:08 PMIf only it were that easy!!
Clarke searching hard for new club
A taste of things to come for the Timbers? A report about the efforts that Jeff Clarke is going through to regain the eye of Canadian national team coach Holger Osieck.
Coaches (i'm sure Osieck isn't alone on this) look down on players who turn out for "low grade" clubs and Jeff has the additional "problem" of having a Canadian passport, bringing work visas and international player limits into the mix.
posted by the timberlog at 9:32 AMA taste of things to come for the Timbers? A report about the efforts that Jeff Clarke is going through to regain the eye of Canadian national team coach Holger Osieck.
"The problem is that unless you're playing in Europe or the MLS, you are out of his thoughts.
Coaches (i'm sure Osieck isn't alone on this) look down on players who turn out for "low grade" clubs and Jeff has the additional "problem" of having a Canadian passport, bringing work visas and international player limits into the mix.
Asked about his plans beyond the end of the current A-League season, the defender admits: "I just don't know. Do you know anyone who wants me?
Saturday, August 04, 2001
Timbers get Jose Burciaga Jr. on loan.
The MLS Kansas City Wizards Pro-40 defender has been loaned to the Timbers to cover for the suspended Scott Benedetti on their trip to Rochester tomorrow. Burciaga, 19, is a Pro-40 player and was the 12th player selected in the 2001 MLS SuperDraft by Kansas City.
"Filling Benny's shoes is no easy task, especially the way he's been playing this year," said Jim Taylor, Timbers general manager. "Jose is a very talented player and should help us a great deal at the back on Sunday."
M.E.D.I.A.
TORONTO 3, PORTLAND 0 Timbers leave Napoleon...
Oregonian report on Oregonlive continuing the tradition of cutting off the headline (...unprotected in road loss.)
Lynx unbeaten in three
Slam Sports report containing the following quotes.
Toronto head coach Peter Pinizzotto
posted by the timberlog at 2:25 PMTORONTO 3, PORTLAND 0 Timbers leave Napoleon...
Oregonian report on Oregonlive continuing the tradition of cutting off the headline (...unprotected in road loss.)
Lynx unbeaten in three
Slam Sports report containing the following quotes.
"I was very surprised. I called (Vancouver Whitecaps head coach) Dale Mitchell to find out what kind of team Portland is since they're in the Western Division with them and he told me they were a bit overrated... still, I was expecting a little bit more from them."
Toronto head coach Peter Pinizzotto
"I'm really not supposed to comment on the referee so I won't tell you that I thought he had a terrible game," said a sarcastic Howe. "I'm not allowed to tell you that he was handing out yellow cards like confetti. I asked him afterwards how many yellow cards he had handed out and he couldn't remember. There wasn't a bad tackle in the game and yet there were all those yellow cards. I don't think this referee is equal to the standard of this league and I think he should be seriously assessed before being allowed to referee again."
Lynx Axe Timbers
Rob Lynch's match report over at A-League.com is a nice encapsulation of yesterday's game. A Lynx side hitting some stellar form, confidence high, with not just one or two players giving the Timbers defence problems, but three or four. It sounds like the pushing and shoving match at the final whistle led to the Timbers second ejection (although Rob reports it might have been O'Neill rather than Jeff Clarke - have to wait and see what the official word is on that), and he also notes that Brent Sancho did get a yellow (but not according to the match stats over at USLSoccer.com!). We can all thank Matt Napoleon for yet another great performance, this time not a game winning or saving one, but one which certainly kept our goal difference decent!
Doesn't exactly instill confidence about Sunday's game at Rochester. Rochester (featuring high scoring midfielders Stoian Mladenov and Lenin Steenkamp), unbeaten in their last 6 games and top of the Northern Conference, beat Hershey yesterday 1 - 0 outshooting the Wildcats 14 - 1 in the first half (21 - 9 overall).
posted by the timberlog at 9:26 AMRob Lynch's match report over at A-League.com is a nice encapsulation of yesterday's game. A Lynx side hitting some stellar form, confidence high, with not just one or two players giving the Timbers defence problems, but three or four. It sounds like the pushing and shoving match at the final whistle led to the Timbers second ejection (although Rob reports it might have been O'Neill rather than Jeff Clarke - have to wait and see what the official word is on that), and he also notes that Brent Sancho did get a yellow (but not according to the match stats over at USLSoccer.com!). We can all thank Matt Napoleon for yet another great performance, this time not a game winning or saving one, but one which certainly kept our goal difference decent!
Doesn't exactly instill confidence about Sunday's game at Rochester. Rochester (featuring high scoring midfielders Stoian Mladenov and Lenin Steenkamp), unbeaten in their last 6 games and top of the Northern Conference, beat Hershey yesterday 1 - 0 outshooting the Wildcats 14 - 1 in the first half (21 - 9 overall).
Friday, August 03, 2001
FT in Toronto: Lynx 3 - 0 Timbers
The Timbers had a torrid first half against an attacking minded Lynx side who scored 3 goals. The first on 28' when Juan Arango beat Brent Sancho and fired a shot inside the far post, the second on 39' from Waldo Sponton and then 2 minutes later on 41' Arango got his second and the Lynx third leaving Matt Napoleon seething and the Timbers in disarray.
The second half saw Vadim Tolstolutsky get a red for dissent on 55' and Tony McPeak on for Baena on 60'. With the Lynx bringing on substitutes to give them some fresh legs and Napoleon making 2 great saves from Ashton and then Grzetic the Timbers could put no real attacking moves together. Grzetic got a red card on 79' for a challenge on Wilkinson and Chulis picked up a yellow on 81' (to go with yellows for Sancho, O'Neill, and Clarke), but the Timbers had no reply to a great performance by Toronto who ended winning 3 - 0.
Thursday, August 02, 2001
Lynx - Riverhounds Reports
Pawprints, Pawprints Everywhere…
Another informative match report by Rob Lynch over at A-League.com
Lynx extend winning streak
posted by the timberlog at 11:20 PMPawprints, Pawprints Everywhere…
Another informative match report by Rob Lynch over at A-League.com
Lynx extend winning streak
A-League Disciplinary Points
Added to the team stats are the current disciplinary points for the Timbers (in the column DP). Players receive points for each yellow card and the points depend on the type of infringement committed. The typical amount is 4 for most common fouls, but there are a number of lesser offenses that will earn the player 3, 2 or even 1 point. Players reaching 21 points will get a 1 game suspension and a $100 fine. 33 points (i.e. an additional 12) and a 2 game suspension and a $200 fine. 44 points, 3 games and $200. I will probably update the yellow card column to reflect the official count rather than my own highly dubious one!
posted by the timberlog at 5:04 PMAdded to the team stats are the current disciplinary points for the Timbers (in the column DP). Players receive points for each yellow card and the points depend on the type of infringement committed. The typical amount is 4 for most common fouls, but there are a number of lesser offenses that will earn the player 3, 2 or even 1 point. Players reaching 21 points will get a 1 game suspension and a $100 fine. 33 points (i.e. an additional 12) and a 2 game suspension and a $200 fine. 44 points, 3 games and $200. I will probably update the yellow card column to reflect the official count rather than my own highly dubious one!
Darin Lewis Cleared to Play!
Yes, finally after what seems like an eternity Darin Lewis the Timbers exciting midfielder has been cleared to play. Suspended since July 9th after playing just 9 minutes, the Trinidad club Malta Carib Alcons claimed the rights to Darin, but after investigation US Soccer have cleared Darin to play deciding that Alcons claims were just hot air.
More news on yellow cards: Scott Benedetti will miss the Rochester game due to yellow card point accumulation. Hopefully soon i'll have a breakdown of all the Timbers players points (and maybe get USLSoccer.com to add it to their stats page!)
The Timbers next opponents the Toronto Lynx played the Pittsburgh Riverhounds today in Toronto and won 2 - 1. The Lynx goals coming from players mentioned yesterday, Robbie Aristodemo (who according to the great match reports by Rob Lynch at a-league.com is a very dangerous player) with an assist from new signing Gregory Messam and then Brian Ashton from an assist by Waldo Sponton.
Wednesday, August 01, 2001
Toronto Lynx v Portland Timbers Preview
A cursory glance at the Northern Conference table would suggest that this Friday’s game for the Timbers at Varsity Stadium will hold few problems. Look closer and, as with Minnesota, the Timbers face a team coming back into some form after a sluggish start to the season.
Toronto have a 4-2-10 record, but the four wins have all come at home and their last few games have seen a win (H) v Hershey, a loss (A) in OT to Rochester, a draw (A) with Connecticut and a win (H) against Long Island, not a bad set of results. Their only other match-up with a Western Conference team saw a 3 – 1 loss to the Whitecaps in a game that saw the Lynx out-muscled by a stronger and more direct Vancouver side.
The Lynx are anchored by Brain Ashton (who has just reached 100 appearances for the Lynx, playing for the team since 1997) who is an inspiring, aggressive, ball-winning midfielder. Other players to watch out for are speedy Robbie Aristodemo on the right, tall Croatian rookie Kristian Grzetic, youngster Daryl Gomez, Canadian international Chris Pozniak and new signing Jamaican international Gregory Messam. Add the Latin pair, Waldo Sponton (Argentina) and Juan Arango (Colombian) into the mix and coach Peter Pinizzotto is starting to see improved performances from his team after their “all build-up and little finish” start.
Still no news on Darin Lewis and the Timberlog still cannot get an answer to possible yellow card suspensions looming for a couple of Timbers players. Matt Chulis was suspended a while back on 4 yellows (USL Soccer stats), while the Timbers have Brent Sancho (6), Scott Benedetti (6) and Brian Winters (5) all probably close to the 21 point limit…er… if that is the A-League limit!!
As for the MVP poll...don't know what it tells us really. Does Vadim really have that many fans? I knew Matt Napoleon would be right up there, and I thought Darren and Mark might have been closer. Maybe all it tells us is don't trust these damn internet polls, especially as there is no way of checking for multiple votes.
posted by the timberlog at 1:48 PMA cursory glance at the Northern Conference table would suggest that this Friday’s game for the Timbers at Varsity Stadium will hold few problems. Look closer and, as with Minnesota, the Timbers face a team coming back into some form after a sluggish start to the season.
Toronto have a 4-2-10 record, but the four wins have all come at home and their last few games have seen a win (H) v Hershey, a loss (A) in OT to Rochester, a draw (A) with Connecticut and a win (H) against Long Island, not a bad set of results. Their only other match-up with a Western Conference team saw a 3 – 1 loss to the Whitecaps in a game that saw the Lynx out-muscled by a stronger and more direct Vancouver side.
The Lynx are anchored by Brain Ashton (who has just reached 100 appearances for the Lynx, playing for the team since 1997) who is an inspiring, aggressive, ball-winning midfielder. Other players to watch out for are speedy Robbie Aristodemo on the right, tall Croatian rookie Kristian Grzetic, youngster Daryl Gomez, Canadian international Chris Pozniak and new signing Jamaican international Gregory Messam. Add the Latin pair, Waldo Sponton (Argentina) and Juan Arango (Colombian) into the mix and coach Peter Pinizzotto is starting to see improved performances from his team after their “all build-up and little finish” start.
Still no news on Darin Lewis and the Timberlog still cannot get an answer to possible yellow card suspensions looming for a couple of Timbers players. Matt Chulis was suspended a while back on 4 yellows (USL Soccer stats), while the Timbers have Brent Sancho (6), Scott Benedetti (6) and Brian Winters (5) all probably close to the 21 point limit…er… if that is the A-League limit!!
As for the MVP poll...don't know what it tells us really. Does Vadim really have that many fans? I knew Matt Napoleon would be right up there, and I thought Darren and Mark might have been closer. Maybe all it tells us is don't trust these damn internet polls, especially as there is no way of checking for multiple votes.