A dominant first-half performance from the Portland Timbers gave the visitors a 2-0 win over Houston Dynamo FC at BBVA Stadium Friday evening.
Early goals from Yimmi Chara and Felipe Mora were the difference, as the Timbers secured victory on the road for the second straight game and got their first-ever win at BBVA Stadium. They now sit comfortably above the playoff line in sixth place with a three-game home stretch on the horizon. Houston's struggles continued, with the Dynamo extending their winless streak to 16 matches. Tab Ramos's side hasn't won since May 22 and currently lies bottom of the Western Conference in 13th place.
It was a dream start for Portland, who found themselves up 2-0 inside the opening 20 minutes. The Timbers, fresh from a big rivalry win over the Seattle Sounders last Sunday, opened the scoring through Yimmi Chara, who pounced on the ball in the box after Dynamo goalkeeper Michael Nelson saved a Mora header off the line, but failed to clear it out of harm's way.
Five minutes later, Mora was on the run again, but this time got taken out by Nelson inside the box after looking to round the Dynamo keeper in a 1-on-1 situation. After Video Review, referee Rubiel Vazquez pointed to the spot and Mora stepped up, netting his ninth goal of the season.
The Dynamo's best chance came in the 80th minute when Joe Corona found the head of Sam Junqua but his header was tipped over the bar by Timbers goalkeeper Steve Clark.
A late glimmer of hope for the Dynamo came from the toe of Darwin Quintero, but Clark came up big once again, denying the Colombian in the 90th minute.
Houston's defensive shape held up better in the second half, keeping the Timbers scoreless. But their offense failed to fire, despite multiple reinforcements being introduced by Ramos.
Three Things
- THE BIG PICTURE: This was an impressive performance from the Timbers, who are firmly climbing back into Western Conference playoff contention. For Houston, their struggles up and down the pitch continued, with the Dynamo losing for the sixth time in eight games and being held scoreless for the sixth time this season.
- MOMENT OF THE MATCH: This first-half stoppage time save from Steve Clark. If Clark doesn't come up big, the Dynamo get a goal and some momentum back before the break.
- MAN OF THE MATCH: Felipe Mora. The Chilean international created the first Timbers goal and scored the second while also playing a crucial role in nearly every attacking threat from his team.
Next Up
- HOU: Saturday, September 11 vs. Austin FC | 8:30 pm ET (MLS LIVE on ESPN+)
- POR: Friday, September 10 at Vancouver Whitecaps. | 10:00 pm ET (MLS LIVE on ESPN+)
