Colorado Shows What To Expect!

The Portland Timbers were able to pick up their defense after the first half preventing many well placed shots on goal. The Rapids were unable to gain another goal, and the Timbers were even able to pick a goal up from a very well placed free kick from forward Kenny Cooper on the 79th minute. The ball went in between the Rapids wall and deflected off the ground, hitting the back of the net with ease.

The first half proved that the Rapids have ever bit the ability to take control of the MLS. According to Fox Soccer, as well from what I watched, the Rapids have possibly the best combined players in the league. They all played very well, keeping the goalkeeper busy deep into the second half.

The only other shot on goal made by the Timbers was in the first half made by Jack Jewsbury on the 27th minute. Manager Gary Smith stated during his interview that he had seen that Portland was very well organized and that they played a great game and that he was very proud of both teams performance. To me they played well more so in the second half, obviously able to get one good goal but unable to surpass the Rapids strong defense.

This seems to be expected this year that the Rapids will again dominate the league, which is very possible after such a well played first game. Hopefully this predicted top notch team can keep up and continue producing games like this. If the Timbers want to keep up they will need to push their strikers to become a bit quicker with their plays as well have their defenses more focused on assisting the goalkeeper.

Adin Brown proved he had what it took to keep the Rapids from advancing past their three point lead before the Timber free kick hit the net. Afterward even more shots on goal were made, none however made past the better focused Brown. Rapids goalkeeper Matt Pickens was hardly challenged, able to prevent the only two shots on goal made. It's for sure that Portland need to work on their offensive factor if they wish to keep up this season.