PORTLAND, Ore. – Tuesday's U.S. Open Cup match against the San Jose Earthquakes saw the Portland Timbers make four changes to the starting lineup from the 1-0 league win over the Quakes on June 1, but Portland still came away with a comfortable 2-0 win.
Depth has been a significant part of the 2016 Timbers' roster construction. So when significant changes are called for, the Timbers can still bring in players like Jack Jewsbury, Jack McInerney, Jack Barmby and Amobi Okugo.
"I was really proud today," said Timbers head coach Caleb Porter after the match. "There was a lot of positives, but one of the biggest positives I think is when you look at the youth in our team. We played today nine guys, 25 years old or younger, started seven.
That gives us a lot of hope for the future, not just now, but the future knowing that we have youth in the team."
Of those seven starters 25 years old or younger, the group has played a combined 402 MLS matches. Add in the two subs under 25 and that number jumps to 505 games.
"It's obviously nice to see Barmbs come in and do very well, and Amobi come in," team captain Liam Ridgewell told media after the match. "As a veteran, to see some young players come in and do well is always enjoyable."
Having advanced in the Open Cup, and with the CONCACAF Champions League starting later in the summer, the Timbers will need their depth players to step up in the coming months.
"This season has been a little difficult with injuries and people coming in and out," said Ridgewell. "It is always a little bit tricky. But I feel like we are getting into our stride at the minute; denying people shots and space and crosses is always a big part of it. I am pleased tonight to get a clean sheet and for the boys to get the win."
That defensive effort was a hallmark of the Timbers' 2015 MLS Cup run, and back-to-back shutouts – the Timbers' first two of the 2016 season – are an important building block.
"It was important for us to keep the unbeaten streak going," Ridgewell said, "and win a game at home, and, personally, for the back five to get a clean sheet."
