Mount Royal Soccer - Portland Timbers vs Montreal Impact: Another Trip to CascadiaLa Vie en Bleuhttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/50925/mrs-fav.png2013-03-10T12:10:11-04:00http://www.mountroyalsoccer.com/rss/stream/38371932013-03-10T12:10:11-04:002013-03-10T12:10:11-04:00Timbers vs Impact: Game Highlights, Stats & Quotes
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<p>The Montreal Impact have already matched its numbers of road wins from last year after beating the Portland Timbers 2-1 in Jen-Weld Field.</p> <p> </p>
<p>Montreal does it again as it wins its second consecutive road win, its second consecutive win in Cascadia in 2013.</p>
<h4>Lineups</h4>
<p>MTL - GK-<span>Troy Perkins</span>; D-Jeb Brovsky, <span>Matteo Ferrari</span>, <span>Alessandro Nesta</span>, <span>Hassoun Camara</span>; M- <span>Patrice Bernier</span>, <span>Sanna Nyassi</span>, Felipe (<span>Collen Warner</span> 86'), <span>Davy Arnaud</span>, Andrea Pisanu (Andrés Romero 59'); F-<span>Marco Di Vaio</span> (<span>Andrew Wenger</span> 75')</p>
<p>Unused subs: GK-<span>Evan Bush</span>; D-<span>Dennis Iapichino</span>; M- <span>Justin Mapp</span>, <span>Calum Mallace</span></p>
<p>POR - GK-<span>Donovan Ricketts</span>; D- <span>Michael Harrington</span> (<span>Rodney Wallace</span> 86'), Andrew Baptiste, <span>Ryan Miller</span> (Jose Valencia 68'), <span>Mikael Silvestre</span>; M-<span>Diego Valeri</span>, <span>Diego Chara</span>, <span>Will Johnson</span>; F-<span>Ryan Johnson</span>, <span>Kalif Alhassan</span> (<span>Ben Zemanski</span> 46'), <span>Darlington Nagbe</span></p>
<p>Unused subs: GK-<span>Jake Gleeson</span>; D-<span>Dylan Tucker-Gangnes</span>; M-<span>Jack Jewsbury</span>, <span>Michael Nanchoff</span></p>
<h4></h4>
<h4>Scoring Summary</h4>
<p>MTL - Camara 30'<br>MTL - Felipe (Romero, Bernier) 60'<br>POR - R. Johnson 80'</p>
<h4>Disciplinary Summary</h4>
<p>POR - Nagbe 30'<br>MTL - Felipe 73'</p>
<h4>Game Statistics</h4>
<p> </p>
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<table class="tableizer-table"><tbody> <tr class="tableizer-firstrow"> <th><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.stumptownfooty.com/">Portland Timbers</a></th> <th></th> <th><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.mountroyalsoccer.com/">Montreal Impact</a></th> </tr> <tr> <td>19</td> <td>Attempts on Goal</td> <td>9</td> </tr> <tr> <td>6</td> <td>Shots on Target</td> <td>6</td> </tr> <tr> <td>7</td> <td>Shots off Target</td> <td>2</td> </tr> <tr> <td>6</td> <td>Blocked Shots</td> <td>1</td> </tr> <tr> <td>5</td> <td>Corner Kicks</td> <td>2</td> </tr> <tr> <td>13</td> <td>Fouls</td> <td>16</td> </tr> <tr> <td>24</td> <td>Open Play Crosses</td> <td>4</td> </tr> <tr> <td>4</td> <td>Offsides</td> <td>5</td> </tr> <tr> <td>1</td> <td>First Yellow Cards</td> <td>1</td> </tr> <tr> <td>0</td> <td>Second Yellow Cards</td> <td>0</td> </tr> <tr> <td>0</td> <td>Red Cards</td> <td>0</td> </tr> <tr> <td>54</td> <td>Duels Won</td> <td>45</td> </tr> <tr> <td>54%</td> <td>Duels Won %</td> <td>45%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>571</td> <td>Total Pass</td> <td>334</td> </tr> <tr> <td>80%</td> <td>Passing Accuracy %</td> <td>73%</td> </tr> <tr> <td>63.1%</td> <td>Possession</td> <td>36.9%</td> </tr> </tbody></table>
<p> </p>
<h4>Post-Game Quotes</h4>
<p><strong>Montreal Impact</strong></p>
<p><em><strong>Impact head coach Marco Schällibaum</strong></em></p>
<p>On the result:</p>
<blockquote><p>We didn't come in here and steal the three points tonight. We were solid defensively and had a lot of help from our midfield. It was a difficult and tight game, but we responded well.</p></blockquote>
<p>On coaching in MLS:</p>
<blockquote><p>I come from Europe and everyone is a fan of football. I come here and I have a good start and we work very good together. I get by with my experience and also my ideas, but I know the other coach's work very well.</p></blockquote>
<p><em><strong>Midfielder Davy Arnaud</strong></em></p>
<p>On a second-straight win:</p>
<blockquote><p>I know it's not easy to play in these two places, but I think we have the team that's capable of going on the road and getting results; six points is huge. It's a huge achievement for us on the road. We want to be good defensively, and our starting point is how we play defensively.</p></blockquote>
<p>On team's defensive play:</p>
<blockquote><p>I think so. We were solid defensively. We didn't give up a ton of really good chances and we had quite a few really good chances ourselves. They had a lot of the ball and they pushed the game, similar to Seattle, but I thought defensively as a group again, we were very solid.</p></blockquote>
<p><em><strong>Goalkeeper Troy Perkins</strong></em></p>
<p>On the result:</p>
<blockquote><p>We wanted six points on the road and we got it. It's no different than playing in any other game. Obviously there's a little more emotion to it, but it's one of those things where we knew they were going to come hard and we had to withstand it.</p></blockquote>
<p>Looking forward to Toronto:</p>
<blockquote><p>That's a big rivalry for us, and I think we just have to continue our confidence and take to the next game and take it day by day.</p></blockquote>
<p><br>On returning to Portland:</p>
<blockquote><p>It was different, a little surreal. Playing almost two years here and coming back and having to warm-up on the other end was a different experience for me.</p></blockquote>
<p><br><strong>Portland Timbers Quote</strong></p>
<p><strong><em>Timbers head coach <span>Caleb Porter</span></em></strong></p>
<p>Thoughts on the match:</p>
<blockquote><p>Certainly it's disappointing not to get a result. We prepared all week for the way that they would play against us, and just about everything we thought they would do, they did. We knew they would hit us on counterattacks and we knew they would hit us on set pieces. If you look at the goals they scored, one was a set piece and the other was on a counterattack. It's disappointing that we let them hurt us twice in moments that we prepared for all week, and it's disappointing to give up two goals on only seven shots.</p></blockquote>
<p>On trying to crack the Montreal backline:</p>
<blockquote><p>We knew it was going to be difficult, they are very organized. They weren't easy to breakdown; we had plenty of shots and a lot of possession. They're a team that if they get up on you, they can bunker down even more. Unfortunately, they got the first goal and that played into their hands.</p></blockquote>
<p>On the play of the Timbers defense:</p>
<blockquote><p>We talked about the first goal and how important that was. We are making some mistakes that we can't keep making if we want to win games. Again, we let them hurt us twice in moments that we prepared for all week.</p></blockquote>
<p><em><strong>Timbers forward Ryan Johnson</strong></em></p>
<p>What happened on the goal:</p>
<blockquote><p>Just a great ball by Ben (Zemanski), and I just tried to make sure I was on the end of it and beat my defender to the spot. I just got a piece of it that I needed to get it into the back of the net.</p></blockquote>
<p>On overall play two games into the season:</p>
<blockquote><p>We're doing the rights things; it's just about the ball falling into the goal. We're doing what we're supposed to do in creating the chances, they just need to start falling a little bit more in our favor. As long as we keep doing what we're doing, and creating the chances we'll be fine.</p></blockquote>
<p>On the amount of shots the Timbers are creating:</p>
<blockquote><p>It's not a coincidence that two games straight we've shot more than 20-something times on goal. I think these are club records that we are setting and it's because we have offensive weapons. We're doing the right things, they (shots) are going to fall, we've just got to be a little bit sharper around the goal when it comes to those final passes. As times goes on, we'll be fine, I'm not worried at all.</p></blockquote>
<p><em><strong>Timbers midfielder Ben Zemanski</strong></em></p>
<p>On assisting Johnson's goal:</p>
<blockquote><p>I think it was (Diego) Chara that played a good ball out to me. I just saw a couple guys on the back post and I just tried to get it there. Getting that first one against a team like that is definitely huge and it felt like the momentum was going to swing. Unfortunately we couldn't capitalize on it.</p></blockquote>
<p>On the play of the team through two games:</p>
<blockquote><p>Whenever you have two home games to start the year and you only have one point, you've got to figure out a way to get win. Three points is huge in this league and there are a lot of games left for us to do it. We've got to get that first win.</p></blockquote>
<p></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<h4></h4>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
https://www.mountroyalsoccer.com/2013/3/10/4085918/portland-timbers-vs-montreal-impact-game-highlights-stats-and-quotesSofiane Benzaza2013-03-09T23:36:24-05:002013-03-09T23:36:24-05:00Camara's Goal & Half-Time Notes
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<p>Hassoun Camara does not hesitate to show skill and poise to give the Montreal Impact a 1-0 lead against the Portland Timbers.</p> <p>Jen-Weld Field got stunned at the 32nd minute as <span>Hassoun Camara</span> gave the lead for the <a href="https://www.mountroyalsoccer.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Montreal Impact</a>. The right-back does not mind being in the limelight as he scores off a bicycle kick off a Andrea Pisanu free kick.</p>
<h4>Half-Time Notes:</h4>
<ul class="unIndentedList"> <li> The <a href="https://www.stumptownfooty.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Portland Timbers</a> are able to play a very complete game</li> <li> The Montreal Impact is still very compact at the back and in the midfield</li> <li> <span>Marco Di Vaio</span> is having a bigger impact up front but was quieter after Montreal opened the score</li> <li> <span>Diego Valeri</span> is dangerous when not marked and finds his favorite target, <span>Darlington Nagbe</span>.</li> <li> Nagbe enjoys doing combinations with <span>Ryan Johnson</span> who is putting pressure on Nesta-Ferrari.</li> <li> Outside the first 10 minutes dominated by Portland, Montreal was able to get some flow in its game with quick passes and ball distribution</li> <li> <span>Sanna Nyassi</span> has a card to play against Miller who is going up aggressively</li> <li> Felipe is much more active and dangerous even if <span>Diego Chara</span> is marking him a lot.</li> <li> <span>Troy Perkins</span> is definitely making the defense's job easier with timely saves and being master of his zone in the air, something as important as saves</li> <li> <span>Jeb Brovsky</span> is doing his thing quietly and discreetly on the left side. I am always impressed with his performances</li> <li>Miller embellished but a PK could have easily been called against Sanna Nyassi</li> </ul>
https://www.mountroyalsoccer.com/2013/3/9/4085082/portland-timbers-vs-montreal-impact-half-time-camaras-goal-and-halfSofiane Benzaza2013-03-09T21:25:40-05:002013-03-09T21:25:40-05:00Timbers vs Impact : Game Information
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<p>After getting three points in Seattle, can the Montreal Impact go all in and come back home with 6 points?</p> <p>New York was the Portland's first victim and Montreal would like to continue winning in Cascadia. The Timbers Army must have high expectations for its team after its first performance. On the other side, the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.mountroyalsoccer.com/">Montreal Impact</a> need to brace themselves for another hard game behind enemy lines.</p>
<h4>Where/When/How to Watch</h4>
<p>Jeld-Wen Field, Portland, Oregon at 10:30 PM EST<br><br>TVA Sports & 98.5FM</p>
<h4>Injuries & Suspensions</h4>
<p>Injuries: None Officially</p>
<p>Suspensions: None</p>
<h4>Starting XI</h4>
<p><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.stumptownfooty.com/">Portland Timbers</a> : Ricketts; Miller, Jean-Baptiste, Silvestre, Harrington; AlHassan, Chara, Valeri, Nagbe; R. Johnson<br><br>Montreal Impact : Perkins; Camara, Ferrari, Nesta, Brovsky; Bernier; Pisanu, Arnaud (C), Felipe, Nyassi; Di Vaio</p>
https://www.mountroyalsoccer.com/2013/3/9/4084258/portland-timbers-vs-montreal-impact-game-informationSofiane Benzaza2013-03-08T14:02:35-05:002013-03-08T14:02:35-05:003 questions with Stumptown Footy
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<p>After getting an upset win in Seattle last week, the Montreal Impact are in Portland this weekend to take on the new look, new attitude Timbers, led by new manager Caleb Porter.</p> <p>This game will have a special meaning for Impact GK <span>Troy Perkins</span>. He will be returning to Portland to face his former team for the first time since he was traded to Montreal in exchange for current Timbers starting GK <span>Donovan Ricketts</span>. That transaction was met by heavy criticism from the Timbers Army as Perkins was a fan favorite. He will no doubt receive a warm welcome during warm-ups.</p>
<p>Montreal will seek to start a winning streak after earning an upset win over the Seattle Sounders last week while Portland hopes to earn their first win after comeback from a two goal deficit last week against the <a href="https://www.onceametro.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">New York Red Bulls</a> to secure a 3-3 draw.</p>
<p>To get you ready for the game, Mount Royal Soccer asked their friends over at <a target="_blank" href="http://www.stumptownfooty.com/">Stumptown Footy</a> to help give you a scouting report and some inside info on the mighty Timbers.</p>
<p><b>The transaction list for the Timbers dating back to last season is very long. Who are your key additions and what do they bring to the table for the Timbers this season?</b></p>
<p>There are quite a few key additions but I'll limit it to three since these are the ones who will have the great impact on Saturday's game.</p>
<p>First up is midfielder <span>Diego Valeri</span>. Signed as a Designated Player (DP) in January, he is the Timbers' midfield maestro. He is an unbelievable talent. Last week against the Red Bulls, he completely dominated veteran <span>Jamison Olave</span> and was the driving force behind a Timbers' attack that managed 21 shots!</p>
<p>The next key addition would be midfielder <span>Will Johnson</span>. The former <a href="https://www.rslsoapbox.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Real Salt Lake</a> man is the new Captain and has quickly become the heart and soul of this team. While he's less creative and more of a box-to-box player, his tireless efforts (along with those of <span>Diego Chara</span>) allow Diego Valeri to do what he does best.</p>
<p>Finally, there is defender <span>Mikael Silvestre</span>. The former Manchester United man had a very difficult first half against the Red Bulls last week but was able to step up his play in the second half to show the Timbers' faithful just what he is able to bring to this team. I believe that it will take a few weeks for him to reach his peak playing form but if he can replicate his 2<sup>nd</sup> half performance from last week into a full 90 minutes, Montreal will be in for a long night.</p>
<p><br><b>What changes has new manager <span>Caleb Porter</span> brought to the organization? Do you see this as a positive hire for the team? Why?</b></p>
<p>Porter has brought a possession-oriented style of play to the Timbers. In previous seasons, those before him relied more on lobs up the middle or attacking down the sides to set up a cross. This style of play is also what you often see with other MLS teams. The older style is effective against most MLS defenses but it can be frustrating to watch. Porter has now transformed this team into one that can hold onto the ball and drive up the midfield with a series of quick passes. As a reference point, last week against the Red Bulls, the Timbers finished the match with an impressive 63% share of ball possession.</p>
<p><br><b>Last season, Portland finished 8th in the West with only 8 wins and a -25 differential. What are the expectations for this season and who are the key guys that will get you there?</b></p>
<p>The expectations are somewhat muted. Everyone in Portland knows that this is still a rebuilding year. The main objective for 2013 is to improve on last year and perhaps make a playoff push. The team is aiming to be a contender for the MLS Cup in 2014. It would be a blessing to be a contender as of this year and it would be a great gift to the fans. If the early play from the likes of Diego Valeri, Will Johnson, <span>Ryan Johnson</span>, Diego Chara and <span>Darlington Nagbe</span> are anything to go by, it wouldn't be a surprise for anyone to see them make some noise in the Western Conference standings.</p>
<p><br><b>BONUS: How is our old buddy Donovan Ricketts doing? What role will he play for the Timbers this season? What are the expectations surrounding him?</b></p>
<p>Ricketts is the starting keeper for 2013. Despite a major gaffe against the Red Bulls, he played a very solid game. He is an interesting character and goalkeeper. Just in case, the Timbers did pick up a solid backup in Milos Kocic. In my opinion, he is being groomed to take over the starting position next year as Ricketts will probably be retiring.</p>
<p><br><b>Player the <a href="https://www.mountroyalsoccer.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Montreal Impact</a> should fear and why?</b></p>
<p>Diego Valeri. He will run circles around the Impact players. He will give the Timbers' attack the creativity they need to score. He has the ability to switch up his style of play to keep opposing defenders off balance. Based on his performance against New York, I am stunned to see that a player of his caliber is in the MLS instead of somewhere in Europe.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Predicted starting formation and lineup:</b><br><b> </b></p>
<p>Donovan Ricketts; <span>Ryan Miller</span>, Mikael Silvestre, <span>Andrew Jean-Baptiste</span>, <span>Michael Harrington</span>; Will Johnson, Diego Valeri, Diego Chara; <span>Kalif Alhassan</span>, Ryan Johnson, Darlington Nagbe</p>
<p><b>Final Score?<br></b></p>
<p>I don't give game predictions. Sorry!</p>
<p>Make sure to check <a href="http://www.stumptownfooty.com/2013/3/9/4083170/portland-timbers-vs-montreal-impact-preview-interview" target="_blank">Stumptown Footy</a> for your Portland Timbers news and more</p>
https://www.mountroyalsoccer.com/2013/3/8/4079474/portland-timbers-vs-montreal-impact-preview-3-questions-stumptown-footyGioSardo2013-03-07T17:28:15-05:002013-03-07T17:28:15-05:00Timbers Scouting Report: The Spine of Stumptown
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<p>New Head Coach, New Players, New Core but still the same high expectations. Let's have a look at some key players on the Portland Timbers.</p> <p>After an impressive second half comeback against the <a href="https://www.onceametro.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">New York Red Bulls</a>, we could take the lazy path and just say that the Impact needs to:</p>
<p>(*) Cover all the Timbers players <br> (*) Shoot from anywhere towards <span>Donovan Ricketts</span> <br> (*) Defend, Defend and Defend</p>
<p>But a few players caught my attention as did the whole mindset of the <a href="https://www.stumptownfooty.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Portland Timbers</a>.</p>
<h4><b><span>Diego Valeri</span>: Play Maker Extraordinaire</b></h4>
<p>The Argentinean midfielder is tagged as one of the key signings that will mark the reign of <span>Caleb Porter</span>, or at least the beginning of the Caleb reign. The 26-year old is on loan from Argentine club Lanús and the Timbers have an option to buy.</p>
<p> </p>
<div class="pullquote">He was tremendous. He is worth every penny. He's gifted. He's capable of pulling a rabbit out of the hat at any given moment. He's very clever in tight spaces and he can unlock teams. He's going to be a handful this year as well. <span>-Caleb Porter about Valeri</span>
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<p>He made himself noticed when he scored a beautiful goal against the New York Red Bulls, making excellent precise passes while making runs in the offensive zone. A sweet and sour stat of 37 successful passes against 27 unsuccessful passes makes him look imprecise but the quality is still there. His first touch is remarkable but not impossible to counter if you bother him enough.</p>
<p>It's pretty clear that the Timbers' game plan is to involve Diego Valeri when attacking from the center. This is where the importance of the dense Montreal midfield comes into play.</p>
<p>Should the Impact man-mark Valeri and asphyxiate any type of offense coming from him?</p>
<p>With a 4-1-4-1 formation, it would be difficult to ask <span>Patrice Bernier</span> to hold that important zone all alone, specifically in front of the defense. I will be surprised if they do so but having 2 CMF instead of one might help counter Valeri's game.</p>
<h4><b>Offensive Mind Set From The Defensive Midfielders</b></h4>
<p><span>Diego Chara</span> and <span>Will Johnson</span> will have the task to patrol the Portland midfield. As first defenders, they did a great job against a talented Red Bulls midfield. Chara's athleticism is one of his strengths and I would watch for him to pin down <span>Felipe Martins</span> all game long. Johnson is the captain on and off the field and his fighting spirit was the key to start the crazy comeback against NY.</p>
<p>Outside fighting spirit and physical presence, Johnson and Chara had respectively 63 and 66 successful passes, respectively approximately 80% and 90% in passing accuracy. We are talking about 2 highly skilled defensive midfielders that will get involved in the offensive buildup.</p>
<p>Between Valeri, Johnson and Chara, Arnaud-Bernier-Felipe will have huge task to keep them under control.</p>
<h4><b>Offensive Trio: Warning to the Impact's Wings</b></h4>
<p><span>Darlington Nagbe</span> and <span>Kalif Alhassan</span> will be patrolling the sides of the Timbers offense as wingers/midfielders. Part of an overrall complete game, the Timbers will be leaning as much on Valeri's central game than on the wings from Nagbe and Alhassan.</p>
<p>Both ''wingers'' will be providing pace and crosses to <span>Ryan Johnson</span>, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f6lN_lNntTQ">who has had success against the Montreal Impact during Di Vaio's first game with the club.</a></p>
<p>Being the pivot/top man upfront, R. Johnson will need to suck in the Impact Italian duo of Nesta and Ferrari. But also, Portland's more complete game will include attacking directly from the middle and from the sides. So we can expect a mix of plays in which the Timbers will stretch out Montreal's defense and to mix that with upfront attacks to find gaps between the lines and between the players.</p>
<p>---</p>
<p>Defensively, the Montreal Impact have shown to be very organised early in the season. That poise and tactical discipline/awareness will be key to survive what seems a very spread out offensive Timbers team. I do not expect a high tempo like against NY as the circumstances were different.</p>
<p>One way of taking the crowd out of the game and the opponent is to control the ball and make the Timbers run after it. Whether that is actually possible or not is another story as it's more than possible that Portland will apply high pressure on the Impact early in the game.</p>
https://www.mountroyalsoccer.com/2013/3/7/4067118/portland-timbers-scouting-report-the-spine-of-stumptownSofiane Benzaza2013-03-07T17:12:10-05:002013-03-07T17:12:10-05:00Post-Practice Video: Timbers Get Ready for Impact
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<p>Caleb Porter talks about the previous game against the New York Red Bulls and how the club can improve against Montreal.</p> <p>Head Coach Caleb Porter and Timbers players share their thoughts on what could be done better for the game against Montreal. </p>
<p>You can also hear Will Johnson and Darlington Nagbe talk about their previous game against NY and praising the Impact for a good win in Seattle.</p>
https://www.mountroyalsoccer.com/2013/3/7/4076544/portland-timbers-training-video-timbers-get-ready-for-the-impactSofiane Benzaza2013-03-07T08:47:55-05:002013-03-07T08:47:55-05:00Caleb Porter, from Akron hero to Portland savior
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<figcaption>Steve Dykes</figcaption>
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<p>Last season, while the Montreal Impact and their fans enjoyed a great inaugural season in the MLS, the Portland Timbers struggled and fell very short on expectations. </p> <p>Questionable roster moves (including one that saw Montreal get starting GK Troy Perkins in exchange for shaky GK Donovan Ricketts), firing the manager as well as turmoil between the GM and the fan base only made the season more difficult.</p>
<p>Coming into this new MLS season, hope has been restored to the Portland area. With the hiring of former Akron Zips manager Caleb Porter, the Timbers Army can rejoice with the belief that owner Merritt Paulson has found the man that can bring the MLS Cup to Oregon. Porter is well known for creating a powerhouse program at Akron which has included current Impact players such as Evan Bush and Zarek Valentin.</p>
<p>Mount Royal Soccer spoke to <a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/chisaiiou">Ryan Gates</a> of Stumptown Footy (Twitter: <a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/stumptownfooty">@StumptownFooty</a> ) about the new manager and how he plans to turn the Timbers into an MLS powerhouse.</p>
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<p><b>It is no secret that last season must have been hell for Timbers' fans. I'm sure no one predicted that the team would finish with just 8 wins and a -25 differential. What went wrong?</b></p>
<p>What went wrong? Where do we begin? When Portland came within a few points of making the playoffs in their first season, unrealistic expectations were created. A pressure cooker type of environment was building up in Portland. John Spencer, who started off the season as manager, did not thrive in this situation because he wasn't able to make the necessary tactical changes to improve the team. Instead, he assured his own exit by sticking with players he was comfortable with even if they were not getting him the needed results. Now, add in some untimely injuries, suspensions and the season just went deeper into its downward spiral.</p>
<p><b> Last season, on Twitter, Timbers' fans had a special hashtag '#GWOUT' to call for the firing of GM Gavin Wilkinson. GW has not been fired. Have the fans backed off? Are they willing to give him another chance or does the fire still burn for his exit?</b></p>
<p>Some of the fire is still there for some of the older fans from the Timbers Army. Many feel that Gavin Wilkinson has disrespected the TA over the years. There were also many questions surrounding who had the final say on player acquisitions. Wilkinson and Spencer never seemed to be on the same page. Since Porter has been in charge, there is a lot more consistency with the acquisitions and that is allowing fans to take a wait and see approach with their feelings towards GW. <br><br><b>The decision was made to hire Caleb Porter as the new manager. Can you give us a brief overview of his managing experience?</b></p>
<p>Caleb Porter's managerial experience is sparse when it comes to dealing with professional players but he did manage a very successful collegiate program at the University of Akron. He was able to transform the Zips into one of the powerhouses of college soccer and then parlayed that into an opportunity to manage the USA U-23's during the Olympic qualifying. While the U-23's failed to qualify, it is really hard to place a lot of the blame at his feet.</p>
<p><b>How was the announcement of his hiring received by the fan base?</b></p>
<p>There was a lot of cautious optimism among the Timber Fans. Some were and still are unsure about hiring a college coach. However, those who follow the college game know that Portland now has a very tactically intelligent coach. Sadly, some fans only remember his failure to qualify the U-23's for the Olympics and have doubt as to whether or not his managerial skills can transfer successfully to the professional game.</p>
<p><b>Will he also remain the manager of the US U-23 team?</b></p>
<p>There are no rumors as to whether or not he will continue as the U-23 coach. However, I would venture to say that he will not continue as the manager moving forward. If he were to continue managing the U-23's, In order for him to manage the U-23's, he would have to take time away from his coaching duties for the Timbers and I just don't see that happening.</p>
<p><b>What changes has he made to the organization? To the culture surrounding the team? What style of coaching does he bring to the table?</b></p>
<p>Since taking over the team in November full time, Porter has completely changed the culture of the Portland Timbers. He has brought in high energy players who are coachable, willing to work within his system and that will work hard for a full 90 minutes. From an organization point of view, he has added more video analytics and statistical tracking to help him better analyze player and team tendencies.</p>
<p>Porter plays a possession based game that utilizes the outside backs as an attacking option. The ball is moved from one side to the other until they break down a team. If Portland turns the ball over they immediately pressure the ball to win it back and continue their attack.</p>
<p><b>How is his relationship so far with Gavin Wilkinson and owner Merritt Paulson? Do you think there is a potential for friction down the road? A power struggle?</b></p>
<p>Merritt Paulson is Gavin Wilkinson's biggest fan in the organization. MP has gone as far as to tell the disgruntled fans that they will line up to kiss Gavin's behind when Portland turns it around. Merritt did say however that if there are similar problems later on and if Portland doesn't turn it around, he would have to look at Wilkinson and the overall body of his work but we are still extremely distant from such a scenario becoming reality.</p>
<p><b>Do you see him being the manager long term? Can he be the one to bring an MLS Cup to Portland?'</b></p>
<p>Having sat in on two other coaches' (Spencer and Gavin) post game press conferences, I get a feeling that Caleb is very tactically proficient compared to a lot of other managers in the game. He is also a very good judge of talent and he is able to get the most out of his players. Proof of this is by looking at the number of his Zips that were drafted by MLS teams during his time at Akron. It will take him some time to adjust to the professional game but I believe that he can make Portland an MLS Cup contender within 2-3 years. Porter is a great coach and despite having interacted with him on a limited basis so far, I see something special in him.</p>
<p>Only time will tell if Caleb Porter can be successful at the MLS level but since he's tasted such great success at Akron, this is a great test for him in Portland. If you speak to any of his former players, they will all tell you that this move is well deserved.</p>
<p>A special thanks goes out to Stumptown Footy for their collaboration. You can follow them on Twitter <a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/stumptownfooty">@StumptownFooty</a></p>
<p>Article written by Gio Sardo. You can follow him on Twitter <a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/giosardo">@GioSardo</a></p>
https://www.mountroyalsoccer.com/2013/3/7/4073198/manager-caleb-porter-from-akron-hero-to-portland-saviorGioSardo2013-03-06T08:34:06-05:002013-03-06T08:34:06-05:00A look inside the Timbers Army
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<figcaption>Steve Dykes</figcaption>
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<p>Giovanni Sardo talks with Sherrilynn Rawson of the Timbers Army about the TA, supporters group culture and more.</p> <p>Soccer fans are the most passionate fans on the planet. Yes, every team in every sport has their diehard fans that live and die on every shot, every save and every move but there is something special about being a Soccer fan. Across the globe, there are villages that shut down when the local team is playing. Rivalries are intense. Outside of North America, this worship of the jersey can sometimes go too far. Many cases of violence, racism and destruction are often reported.</p>
<p>Thankfully, in North America and specifically the MLS, the fans are passionate yet rarely go over the top.</p>
<p>Since the boys in blue are in Portland to play against the Timbers this Saturday, Mount Royal Soccer took the opportunity to talk with Sherrilynn Rawson, one of the key members of the Timbers Army. The ‘TA' is known as the biggest and most passionate group of supporters in the MLS. They take their passion to a whole new level and are definitely considered, or should be considered, a role model for every other supporters' group not only in the MLS, but across the globe.</p>
<p>Known as Sheba, Sherrilynn is a member of the Timbers Army and the 107 Independent Supporters Trust (107IST), the nonprofit arm of the Timbers Army. Her credentials also include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Secretary, 107IST</li>
<li>Co-chair, Community Outreach Committee</li>
<li>Chair, Web Team</li>
<li>Season ticket holder in the west side of the stadium since 2005, back in the USL days</li>
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<p>Let the tour begin!</p>
<p><b>1. Let's start off with some basic info. What is the capacity at JELD-WEN Field? How much of that is taken up by season ticket holders?</b><b></b></p>
<p>JELD-WEN always sells out for Timbers' matches. Capacity is currently a little over 20,000. The organization would like to expand to about 22,000 seats but the front office must find the perfect balance of maximizing seating and making the rest of the match day experience (concessions and bathrooms) workable for such a large crowd.</p>
<p>This year, there about 15,250 seats were sold to season ticket holders. There is also a waiting list of about 6,500.</p>
<p><b>2. Is there more than one supporters' group? If so, who are they and how big are they?</b><b></b></p>
<p>There is only one supporters' group, the Timbers Army (TA).</p>
<p>How big we are depends on how you measure. The North End of the stadium, which is a general admission section, holds about 5,000 people. However, you don't have to be in general admission to be TA. For example, I am on the west side in reserved seats and I am DEFINITELY TA. For us, it's simple: If you want to be a part of the Timbers Army, you already are.</p>
<p>For those who want to take their involvement in the Timbers Army to the next level, there is the 107 Independent Supporters Trust, or 107IST. We currently have about 3,000 members and that number only continues to rise. We do charge an annual membership fee of $25. That money goes towards our tifos, it helps with the upfront costs of travel and allows us to do significant charity work in the community. The 107IST has eleven elected board members who work to ensure that we fulfill our mission which is "to support soccer in and around Portland, Oregon - from the grass roots to the highest professional level."</p>
<p><b>3. Portland is known to have one of the best fan bases in the league. Do many of you go see road games? If so, how many travel and which cities are your favorite destinations?</b></p>
<p>Yes, we do travel. Last year, we had TA representation at every away match and we certainly hope/expect to repeat that success. Our largest away travel is for games against our Cascadia rivals, Seattle and Vancouver. Last season, our biggest travelling group was 1,500 strong for a game against the Sounders.</p>
<p><b>4. How much communication do the supporters' groups have with the team's administration?</b></p>
<p>Our board of XI has regular monthly meetings with the front office, which include various levels of management, occasionally including the owner, coach and/or general manager but always including high level front office management.</p>
<p><b>5. What is your reputation amongst the MLS as a fan base? Any history of violence?</b></p>
<p>We are passionate supporters but we are not violent. We jump, clap, chant, shout and sing for the full 90 minutes. Again, we are not a violent bunch. We work very hard at self-policing and we also have zero tolerance for racism, sexism, or homophobia.</p>
<p><b>6. What are the future plans for the TA?</b></p>
<p>We are in the second year of a five-year strategic plan created by the 107IST board at last year's annual retreat. We have ambitious plans for growth in several areas, including:</p>
<ul>
<li>TAFC (our locally organized amateur soccer league in Portland)</li>
<li>Membership numbers</li>
<li>Gross revenue (for our tifos, travel, and community outreach)</li>
<li>Charitable work</li>
<li>Youth soccer</li>
<li>Volunteer hours</li>
<li>Community outreach</li>
<li>Away support</li>
<li>Cascadia match support.</li>
</ul>
<p><b>7. Can you give us some of the highlights of the TA's recent success?</b></p>
<p>In January, we held our Annual General Meeting. Here are some of the points that were highlighted:</p>
<ul>
<li>The 107IST made over $62,000 in charitable contributions in 2012. This figure does not include an additional $15,000 raised in 2012 and earmarked for donation in 2013.</li>
<li>We paid for and donated close to $10,000 worth of uniforms and equipment for local area high schools.</li>
<li>We donated over $1,400 in match tickets for community outreach, both as fundraisers for auctions and as ways to bring community members to matches.</li>
<li>We had four separate Oregon Food Bank volunteer opportunities, two in Portland and two in Beaverton.</li>
<li>We had three successful blood drives, two in Portland and one in Vancouver.</li>
<li>We had <b>368 </b>individuals who we know volunteered over 5,000 hours in 2012 in service to the TA and to the community. These individuals logged over 1500 hours of volunteering in the community, and engaged in MANY more activities which didn't get included in the totals. They also logged over 3500 volunteer hours in support of the club, including everything from setting out flags to painting tifos to working on the fan laden to running the merch operation, and engaged in MANY more activities which didn't get included in the totals.</li>
</ul>
<p>We all know that our very own ‘Ultras de Montréal' is a very passionate group. The atmosphere that they create within Stade Saputo is absolutely electric and magical for the fans and absolute hell for visiting teams. Most teams would love to have that kind of atmosphere in their stadium. However, what the Timbers Army are doing is on a different level. As a Soccer fan, I would love to see the Timbers Army model copied and applied in every MLS city and every Soccer city across the globe.</p>
<p>Great communication with the front office, great reputation across the league, a ‘religious-like' following and getting involved in the city and for those in need is simply amazing. Supporters' groups like that are a true blessing for everyone involved.</p>
<p>Whether you are a fan of the Timbers, a Soccer fan or even a fan of one of their rivals, you can only respect what they are doing and tip your hat to them.</p>
<p>Special thanks goes out to Sherrilynn Rawson for her contribution. You can follow her on Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/shebainpdx" target="_blank">@shebainpdx</a></p>
<p>Article written by Gio Sardo. You can follow him on Twitter <a href="http://twitter.com/giosardo" target="_blank">@GioSardo</a></p>
https://www.mountroyalsoccer.com/2013/3/6/4070496/a-look-inside-the-timbers-army-with-sherrilynn-rawsonGioSardo