Much like last Saturday's encounter against Seattle Sounders, Portland Timbers weren't able to finish up clear chances in this game. The Portland Timbers were completely dominant in the opening forty-five minutes by outshooting the Quakes 12-0. Only three of those twelve shots forced a superb save out of Earthquakes goalkeeper David Bingham.
The Timbers were dominant in the first half
San Jose Earthquakes, who were apparently struggling much to keep up with a full compliment of players, apparently took the “hit” in the thirty-seventh minute, when playmaker Darwin Ceren was sent-off after being given a second yellow card less than a minute.
The second yellow card wasn't unquestionable, as it appeared that midfielder Sebastian Blanco stylishly “embellished” the severity of Darwin Ceren tackle. Eventually, Portland Timbers failed to take full advantage of the Quakes deficit throughout the remainder of the first half, though, they did create one clear chance just before the break.
Timbers forward Fanendo Adi attempted an open header from close range off the far-post and failed to slam the rebound ball into the back of the net.
Timbers wasted numerous chances
The chances kept flowing in the second-half. Midfielder Dairon Asprilla had an open header inside the penalty box in the forty-eight minutes but skyrocketed the ball off the crossbar.
Afterward, Attacking midfielder Diego Valeri eventually found the opener for Portland Timbers in the fiftieth minute. The Argentine midfielder outran Quakes defender Jahmir Hyka in a fifty-fifty ball contest inside the penalty box and placed home the ball into the back of the net to put Portland Timbers ahead in a 1-0 lead.
Valerie's brace sealed the victory
San Jose Earthquakes got their first attempt five minutes after the goal. Quakes forward and American international Chris Wondolowski apparently “thumped” a fine header in front of goal off a corner-kick cross, but never made it through the crowded penalty box. Just minutes before stoppage time, Diego Valeri doubled the lead and ultimately sealed the victory for the Timbers making the scoreline 2-0 at full-time.
What's next?
Portland Timbers will now look to face off FC Dallas on Saturday as they won't be off during the FIFA international break. Two weeks later, San Jose Earthquakes will then return to league action to play hosts to Sporting Kansas City.
