Portland Timbers sealed their Audi 2017 MLS Playoff spot with a win over an impotent Dc United side at Providence Park, according to Stump Town Footy. Diego Valeri (48' PK), Alvas Powell (50') and Sebastián Blanco (60' and 86') were all on target for Portland Timbers. On the other side, DC United couldn't attempt any chance in the attack as they barely held possession of the ball while their defense was so porous. For Caleb Porter and his men, the encounter was a smooth drive as they dominated almost 90 percent of the possession. No doubt, the Timbers have accomplished their objective of securing a place in the post-season.
They lie third with 50 points, while DC United is at the bottom with 32 points. Here's a summary of the match.
Portland Timbers outlook
Starting XI and individual performance points: Goalkeeper - Jeff Attinella (7.70). Defender - Alvas Powell (9.10), Larrys Mabiala (7.40), Liam Ridgewell (seven points), Vytautas Andriuskevicius (7.51). Midfielder - Diego Chara (seven points), David Guzmán (7.19), Sebastián Blanco (9.33). Diego Valeri (8.73), Darlington Nagbe (seven points). Forward - Darren Mattocks (seven points). Used substitutes - Dairon Asprilla (6.51), Lawrence Olum (6.42), Jeremy Ebobisse (6.58).
Team's strength and weakness: Timbers often stole the ball from DC United players, and they went on to set up chances in front of goal through individual efforts and both flanks.
Furthermore, they were strong at finishing but were often caught offside.
Style of play: Portland Timbers held more possession in United's box.
DC United outlook
Starting XI and individual performance points: Goalkeeper - Steve Clark (4.64). Defender - Nick DeLeon (6.70), Jalen Robinson (six points), Steve Birnbaum (6.72), Chris Korb (4.91).
Midfielder - Ian Harkes (6.18), Russell Canouse (six points), Paul Arriola (6.32), Luciano Acosta (6.17), Zoltán Stieber (5.89). Forward - Patrick Mullins (5.90). Used substitutes - Bruno Miranda (5.99), Marcelo Sarvas (six points), Lloyd Sam (six points).
Team's strength and weakness: Ben Olsen's men were displaced from possession and weak at scoring.
In addition, They gave away several fouls around their half and committed lots of individual fumbles.
Style of play: United played with width and solely favored long-range shots.
Man of the Match
Unarguably, Sebastián Blanco was brilliant in the attack. The Mexican scored two goals and made three key passes. Also, Blanco completed 62 touches.
Both teams' final matches in the MLS regular season
Portland Timbers will play host to Vancouver Whitecaps on Sunday 22 October. The same day, fumbling DC United welcomes New York Red Bulls at RFK Stadium in Washington DC.
