REDMOND, Wash. - Playing their third match as part of a four-match road swing, the Portland Timbers U-23s earned a 1-1 draw against Washington Crossfire on Friday night at Redmond High School.
Portland (0-3-3, 3pts) grabbed an early lead as a result of defensive pressure. Forward Tim Mueller created a turnover, winning the ball outside the box and setting up midfielder Eddie Sanchez for his first goal of the season in the third minute. Sanchez received the pass and placed a strike from close range inside the far post to make it 1-0 in favor of Portland.
The Timbers U-23s remained on the attack and created several scoring chances in the opening 45 minutes, looking to double their lead. Forward Mo Thiaw put an attempt on frame from distance that was saved in the 20th minute, while midfielder Edson Martinez had a shot from distance go just high of the crossbar in the 30th minute.
Crossfire (2-1-2, 8pts) evened the score in the 39th minute as Junior Martinez finished from a tight angle, sending a cross into the box from the left side and into the back of the net.
Portland pushed in the second half for a game-winner. Second-half substitutes Devonte Small and Daniel Johnson sparked the Timbers U23s attack, including a potential penalty call late in the match when Small was fouled in the box in the 75th minute. In addition, Mueller was able to create a late chance, leading the counter attack in the 70th minute, but his shot was saved.
The Timbers U-23s conclude their stretch of four consecutive road games, traveling to square off against Seattle Sounders FC U23 on Sunday, June 5. Sunday's match kicks off at 2 p.m. (Pacific) at North Thurston High School in Lacey, Wash.
Portland Timbers U-23s Starting Lineup:
GK Partee, D De Vera, D Prescott, D Johnston, D Farjado, M Martinez, M Brown, M Coffee, M Sanchez, F Mueller, F Thiaw
