The Timbers came from behind to beat English visitors Preston North End before a big crowd (8,238) Saturday night. Despite a few first half flashes for the Timbers, the Lillywhites went up 1-0 in the 12th minute on a pinball in the box that popped over Bayard Elfvin’s outstretched hands. Throughout the half Preston North End appeared to be in control, and possibly the better team.
But the second half was a different story.
The Timbers consistently won the midfield battles in the second half and were able to show off their offensive form with pretty runs and crisp passing and scoring opportunities. Matt Taylor, the recent addition from Chivas USA, capitalized on a perfect long over-the-top pass from Neal Lewis. Taylor raced down the middle between two defenders, Preston keeper Andy Lonegran charged out, and right at the moment of potential impact Taylor somehow beat the defenders, sidestepped the keeper, and calmly put the ball into the open net.
The Timbers got several more scoring opportunities, and had a potential game winner called off on an iffy offside call. The game looked destined to end in a tie, but a minute into injury time David Hague was tripped in the box and Matt Taylor buried the penalty kick.
The Timbers remain unbeaten at PGE Park this year with record of 10-0-4.
Good coverage:
- SoccercityUSA: Not in our house! Timbers top Preston North End 2-1 on two goals by Matt Taylor
- OregonLive.com: Newest Timber gets equalizer and winner
- PortlandTimbers.com: Timbers axe Preston North End 2-1 at PGE Park
- Lancashire Evening Post: Preston lose to late penalty
Next home game is Thursday, August 9th against Minnesota. Vancouver visits two days later.
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