The Timbers U-23s return to 2016 PDL regular-season action on Friday, May 20, as they play host to Victoria Highlanders FC at Providence Park; kickoff is set for 11 a.m. (Pacific).
The Timbers U-23s enter this week's home match looking to bounce back from a 2-0 defeat to La Maquina in the first round of the 2016 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup at Providence Park on May 11. Outshooting La Maquina 11-10, the Timbers U-23s created several scoring opportunities in the second half, nearly pulling a goal back in the 77th minute as forward Anthony Macchione’s header forced the goalkeeper to make a diving save at the near post. In the 85th minute, forward Kyle Coffee reacted quickly to pounce on a loose ball at the top of the box, but his shot sailed high over the crossbar.
Head coach Jim Rilatt and his staff lead a group of 11 returning players and 21 new additions. Returning to the side is goalkeeper Collin Partee; defenders Niko De Vera, Ben White, Noah Gaines; and midfielders Ivan Alvarado, Reid Baez, Geoffrey Dee, Edson Martinez, Sam Werner, Foster Langsdorf; and forward Anthony Macchione.
Victoria Highlanders FC (1-1-0, 3pts) will play their third game of the 2016 PDL campaign after defeating Kitsap Pumas 3-0 on May 7 and falling 2-0 to Calgary Foothills FC on May 15. Highlanders FC's roster consists of 17 college players, including six from the University of Victoria and three from Simon Fraser University.
Friday's match marks the seventh year of the Providence Health & Fitness Days program, promoting healthy living to youth in the community through soccer. Tickets for the Friday's Providence Health & Fitness Day at Providence Park are $10 and are available for purchase online at www.timbers.com or through the stadium box office. Discounted tickets are available for groups of 15 or more; contact the Timbers ticket office at (503) 553-5555 or ticketsales@timbers.com for additional information.
Next week, Portland will play their third consecutive home match at Providence Park, facing Lane United FC on Tuesday, May 24; kickoff is set for 11 a.m. (Pacific).
