Diego Valeri extended his MLS-record scoring streak to nine matches as he scored twice to give Portland Timbers the crucial home win over 9-men Orlando City Sc at the Providence Park, Orlando Sentinel reported. Also, on target for Timbers was Darren Mattocks. Things got worst for Orlando City in the second half when Jonathan Spector was given a second yellow card for an aggressive challenge on Diego Valeri, and a few minutes later, Dillon Powers was shown a straight red for an elbow on midfielder Diego Chara. However, Jason Kreis' side could have conceded more goals considering they were 2-men down, but they 'heroically' managed to hold on the 3-0 scoreline to full-time.
Portland Timbers is third with forty-seven points, while Orlando City is tenth with thirty-five points. Here's the match report in detail.
Portland Timbers outlook
Starting XI and individual performance points: Goalkeeper - Jeff Attinella (7.50). Defender - Zarek Valentin, Larrys Mabiala (seven points), Liam Ridgewell (seven points), Roy Miller (6.77). Midfielder - Diego Chara (8.10), Darlington Nagbe (7.12), Dairon Asprilla (7.90), Diego Valeri (8.69), Sebastián Blanco (7.13). Forward - Darren Mattocks (8.48). Used substitutes - Lawrence Olum (six points), Jeremy Ebobisse (six points), Jack Barmby (six points).
Team's strength and weakness: Caleb Porter's men created several clear chances in front on goal through individual efforts, through balls and counter attacks.
Overall, they were good at finishing. In their weakness, Timbers gave away lots of free-kicks within their box.
Style of play: Portland Timbers largely operated through the center midfield, favored short passes and through balls.
Orlando City SC outlook
Starting XI and individual performance points: Goalkeeper - Joe Bendik (6.78).
Defender - Scott Sutter (5.57), Jonathan Spector (4.18), Tommy Redding (6.23), Donny Toia (six points). Midfielder -Antonio Nocerino (six points), Yoshimar Yotún (6.76), Dillon Powers (6.24), Giles Barnes (6.14). Forward - Cyle Larin (5.65), Dominic Dwyer (6.11). Used substitutes - Victor Pagliari Giro (4.87), Richie Laryea (six points), Seb Hines (5.76).
Team's strength and weakness: the Lions was effective at setting up their goal-scoring chances from long range shots but were too aggressive in their tackles.
Style of play: Jason Kreis' side favored long shots and attacked through the middle.
Who's the Man of the Match?
It's obvious, Diego Valeri was the Man of the Match. The two goals he scored against the Lions make him lead the MLS Golden Boot race with twenty goals.
Both teams' scheduled next matches
Orlando City will return home to face FC Dallas on Saturday 30 September. A day later, Portland Timbers will travel to San Jose to take on San Jose Earthquakes.
