The Portland Timbers delivered three golden points with a much-needed win against a feisty Real Salt Lake coming to Providence Park. Forward Dairon Aspirilla continued his best start and career season with one goal via PK and one assist.
For substitute goalkeeper Aljaz Ivacic filling for an injured Steve Clark, the man had a great match by making seven saves and denying on multiple occasions the equalizer. Ivacic and the Timbers’ defense held on the remainder of the match to end with the win and holding the pressure by a resurgent RSL.
This match had all the connotations of a playoff game between the Timbers and Monarchs and was decided in the end with a spectacular goal by Felipe Mora and the Green and Gold to deliver a much-needed win.
Team of the Week (3-4-3, left to right): Aljaz Ivacic (POR) – DeJuan Jones (NE), Nathan (SJ), Andy Najar (DC) – Ezequiel Barco (ATL), Alejandro Pozuelo (TOR), Blaise Matuidi (MIA), Luka Stojanovic (CHI) – Szabolcs Schon (DAL), Dairon Asprilla (POR), Cristian Espinoza (SJ)
Coach: Rob Valentino (ATL)
Bench: Matt Turner (NE), Brent Kallman (MIN), Ryan Hollingshead (DAL), Emanuel Reynoso (MIN), Mark-Anthony Kaye (COL), Valentin Castellanos (NYC), Nani (ORL)
Source: Major League Soccer Communications
Portland Timbers
