Kevin Kelsy proved to be the difference-maker in "Portland Timbers'" recent victory, scoring the winning goal in their 2-1 triumph over "Colorado Rapids." The forward found the net in the 76th minute, securing three valuable points for the home side.
"Portland" dominated possession throughout that match, controlling the ball for 71% of the game while generating an impressive 23 attempts on goal. Antony also contributed to the scoreline, opening Portland's account in the 59th minute after they had fallen behind to Djordje Mihailović's 33rd-minute strike.
Interestingly, Portland has struggled offensively in recent weeks. They've managed just 4 goals in their previous 6 outings - not exactly what you'd call prolific form.
Meanwhile, João Klauss led "St. Louis City" to their own 2-1 victory against "San Jose Earthquakes" in their previous match. The striker found the net in the 45th minute, with Eduard Löwen securing the win with a dramatic 92nd-minute goal after Josef Martínez had equalized for San Jose.
St. Louis games have been anything but boring lately. Five of their last six matches have featured three or more goals, averaging 3.17 goals per game.
Fans looking forward to Saturday's clash might expect another goal-fest, especially considering the teams' previous meeting. Their August 2024 encounter ended in an incredible 4-4 draw, with "Portland" netting through Jonathan Rodríguez, a Felipe Mora double, and Evander. "St. Louis" responded with goals from Simon Becher, Eduard Löwen, Cedric Teuchert, and Nökkvi Þeyr Þórisson.
Worth noting - "Portland" will be missing three key players through injury. Zac McGraw, James Pantemis, and Jonathan Rodríguez are all unavailable for selection by manager Phil Neville.
Given both teams' recent form and their tendency to be involved in high-scoring affairs, could we see another thriller this weekend? The oddsmakers seem to favor Portland with odds of 1.67 compared to 4.75 for St. Louis, but recent history suggests this one could go either way.
