The final season match approaches, and it looks like to fulfill our expectations, we're going to have to show a set of Portland supporters exactly who we are and why we're contending for the MLS Cup.
See, Portland, managing only a draw against D.C. United (but eliminating them from the playoffs,) needs a win to have a chance to make the post-season. We need a win to win third place — which, as we know, is very important to our aspirations as a club. We are easily a top-three club, and we really should be a top-two club, though we haven't exactly shown that this season.
But on Saturday, we must be the crushers of playoff dreams; we must stop Portland from getting anything from the match. There will be no moral victories on Saturday: The only victory is three points — and if we can keep a clean sheet, all the better. We know Portland's picked up their game, but they'll be looking to win on the night. If they win, they'll have to rely on the result of the New York - Philadelphia match tonight — which brings me to another point.
Why, in the name of all that is holy, are the final games of the season not all being played at the same time? It adds not only a very exciting element to the season, but it helps prevent unintentional (or intentional!) match-fixing from taking place on the final day. If New York manage a win, they'll be damning the Timbers' season, and that'll undoubtedly see Portland play a bit differently. I wouldn't be opposed to them collapsing and not really caring about the match (so long as we, in fact, still care and go for a win) — but this sort of thing really should be chopped out. Pardon the pun, please.
Right, there's not too much else to say right now, but I've been mulling over the protected list, and I don't think I'm too worried. We'll likely lose a player unless we strike some sort of deal, but we can protect the essentials. I'd not be surprised if we lost a young striker, perhaps one of Paulo Jr., Arnoux or Agorsor,
I'm really not sure whether loanees are protected or not, and I've put on a word on Twitter asking for clarification. If you know more on that, do comment.
Finally, if you'd like to share your protected list, hop on over to Facebook and put in your two cents.
Two days left: Let's do this. Come on you Claret and Cobalt!
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