Two red cards in MLS action Sunday in the Sporting KC-Portland Timbers have wider implications, both for the 2019 MLS regular season and all-time record books.
Timbers forward Brian Fernandez grabbed the first ejection of the match, following Video Review, in the 36th minute for violent conduct in the course of a scuffle between the two teams. The Argentine, who has 11 goals in 18 league matches, will be out for Portland's potentially crucial Decision Day presented by AT&T clash against the San Jose Earthquakes at Providence Park next Sunday.
With the Timbers still fighting to book their spot in the Audi 2019 MLS Cup Playoffs, Fernandez's absence will be a blow for the cause.
Meanwhile, alongside Fernandez's ejection, Sporting KC midfielder Roger Espinoza was also sent off following Video Review for his actions in the same fracas. While Sporting are eliminated from playoff contention, Espinoza wrote his name in the record books. The red card was the Honduran's 11th of his MLS career, the most in league history, surpassing Jamison Olave's mark of 10.
Espinoza also tied the record for most red cards in a single season, with three, joining 12 other players in league history. Since he will be suspended for Sporting's Decision Day game against FC Dallas, he cannot break the single-season record this year.
