The Portland Timbers opened their 2017 MLS goal account in the 14th minute through a Lawrence Olum's free kick. Later the Timbers doubled their lead in the 47th minute just after halftime break as Diego Valeri headed home a brilliant pull out from Sebastian Blanco. In the 79th minute Christian Ramirez scored the first MLS goal for Minnesota United. - Three minutes later Diego Valeri extended the lead again as he converted his penalty kick.
Fernando Adi then put the finishing touch on the encounter with his two fantastic goals in the 91th and 93th minutes respectively.
Timbers' Super subs influenced the victory
Both Fernando Adi and Diego Valeri may have scored the goals - but remember the impacts of the three rookies in the Portland Timbers' starting lineup. - David Guzman busted up many times in the midfield, and for Lawrence Olum he was the unlikely choice to ever get the Major League Soccer season's opener for the Timbers, - while Blanco who is a 'Designated Player' won the foul that set up the opening goal for Lawrence Olum and later grabbed an assist.- No doubt the sample size is little, but it was a fine start for the new lads
Historical night at the Providence Park
Fernando Adi's late combination was good enough to help the Portland Timbers to convincingly win the encounter and also made history at their home ground, scoring a total number of five goals for the first time in their Major League Soccer era.
Adding that it was the 3rd time in their MLS team's history as they have done it anywhere, and 'all in all' it was indeed a superlative performance for the Portland Timbers.
Christian Ramirez opens MLS account for Minnesota
Christian Ramirez notched his first and Minnesota United's first goal of the 2017 Major League Soccer season. - Sure, it was 'somewhat amazing' to see the forward and his good pal Miguel Ibarra staring the game on the team's bench, but Christian Ramirez consolidation goal could open the door for him to get more playing time in subsequent match.