Each Major League Soccer matchday in 2021, the KeyBank Scouting Report will give you a snapshot of the Portland Timbers’ next opponent. On Sunday, MLS Decision Day, the Portland Timbers host Austin FC at Providence Park in the final regular season game of 2021. (3pm PT, FOX 12 PLUS).
Team Form
Austin FC are in 12th place in the Western Conference with a record of 9-20-4 on 31 points – 21 points behind fourth place Portland. They have the second most losses in MLS and have only won two games on the road in their inaugural season.
However, in 2021, they have had the Timbers' number. In the two games previously played this year, Austin won both, in Texas, by a combined score of 7-2. This past Wednesday, they defeated second place Sporting Kansas City 3-1 at home which included a goal from former Timbers defender Julio Cascante.
They are 2-3-0 over their last five matches.
In Attack
Designated Player Cecilio Domínguez and midfielder Diego Fagúndez lead the team with seven goals apiece with Domínguez also throwing in four assists and Fagúndez co-leading the team with five assists.
While that duo have been mainstays in attack for the team all year, it was the midseason acquisition of forward Sebastián Driussi. In just 16 matches, the Argentine DP has scored five goals along with five assists to help give the Austin attack a much needed lift.
Midfielder Tómas Pochettino (2G, 2A) and Alex Ring (4G, 3A) round out some more of the offensive threats.
In Defense
The aforementioned Cascante has been a mainstay on the backline for Austin, appearing 30 matches (26 starts) and has two goals and two assists on the year. Former U.S. international Matt Besler has made 20 starts for Austin while Ring and has also made some appearances in defense.
Outside back Zan Kolmanic has four assists on the year in 29 appearances while Nick Lima (0G, 3A) and Hector Jimenez (1G, 2A) have also been a frequent presence for the team.
In goal, former MLS Pool 'keeper and NYCFC shot stopper Brad Stuver has become a crowd favorite, making 32 starts and earning five clean sheets.
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