Timbers defeat Earthquakes, 2-1

By Galo Legarda, El Hispanic News

Portland, OR — In a very competitive game on Tuesday night, the Portland Timbers were able to sustain a two-goal lead to defeat the current MLS leaders in the western conference, the San Jose Earthquakes, by a final score of 2 to 1.

“I thought that every single player that stepped on the field tonight, they were magnificent,” Coach Jon Spencer said after the game. “A tremendous, tremendous win. Probably one of the most satisfying wins we’ve had in two years as a coaching staff.”

The first goal came in a counter-attack at the 29th minute initiated by Franck Songo’o when he stole the ball from a San Jose forward near the Timbers’ 18-yard box. Songo’o then ran up the line, creating wall with Eric Alexander at midfield, and assisted Danny Mwanga’s first home goal of the season. Mwanga tapped the ball over the goalie before celebrating with the Timbers Army.

“It was just excitement,” Mwanga said. “Just being able to do it [score] in front of the fans and you really feel a part of something, and you see how people support you. It really gives you motivation to keep working hard and make these people proud.”

The second goal for the Timbers came at the 59th minute in set piece play. Songo’o took a free kick and lofted the ball into the 18-yard box. Mamadou “Futty” Danso beat the keeper in the air and sent the ball towards the goal line and Captain Jack Jewsbury tapped the ball in for the 2-0 lead for the Timbers.

The game turned interesting when San Jose scored at the 74th minute. Alan Gordon found a ball in the heart of the 18-yard box that had been shot by Marvin Chávez. Gordon just redirected it to score the honor goal for the visitors.

The Timbers now will continue their season on the road against the Real Salt Lake on July 7, then will face the reigning champions L.A. Galaxy on July 14 at 8 p.m. at Jeld-Wen Field.

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