Timbers Ride Road Winning Streak to San Jose to Face Quakes
The Portland Timbers will try to maintain their superb road momentum on Saturday as they travel to face the San Jose Earthquakes in a high-scoring Western Conference matchup.
Portland Finds Rhythm Away From Home
Portland (5-2-3, 18 points) is on a seven-match unbeaten run, fueled in part by a dangerous road attack that has seen them win three times away from home, scoring at least three goals in each of those victories. Their most recent triumph came in a 4-2 win over the LA Galaxy, where Antony dished out three assists to three different scorers.
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“It feels like we actually raise our game a little bit more away from home than we do at home,” coach Phil Neville said. “We play with a little bit more freedom… so they’re enjoying that challenge.”
With 20 goals through 10 games, the Timbers are one of the most prolific scoring teams in MLS, tied at the top with San Jose and Vancouver. Antony leads the attack with four goals and five assists, supported by Felipe Mora and Kevin Kelsy, who each have four goals as well.
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Quakes Seek Defensive Answers Amid Losing Streak
San Jose (3-6-1, 10 points) has dropped three straight, most recently falling 2-1 to the Columbus Crew despite a strong showing. Josef Martinez notched his sixth goal to tie Cristian Arango for the team lead, but their persistent defensive woes continue to cost them points.
The Earthquakes have conceded 15 goals in their last six matches, struggling to close out games even when the overall performance is solid. Defender Dave Romney summed up the frustration after another close loss.
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“We’ve played well in a lot of games where we haven’t gotten points, and it’s just a matter of us being better defensively in our own 18,” Romney said.
San Jose’s attacking output hasn’t been the issue — they’re level with the Timbers in goals scored — but unless they find a way to tighten up the back line, they’ll remain vulnerable even at home.