The Portland Timbers knew they needed a win to keep alive their hopes of making the MLS playoffs in their inaugural season. That's exactly what they got, beating the Vancouver Whitecaps 1-0 to move even on points with the New York Red Bulls for the final playoff spot. The Timbers will have to move ahead of the Red Bulls to make the playoffs, though, as New York holds the tiebreaker.
Vancouver Whitecaps Vs. Portland Timbers, 2011 MLS: Rose City’s Playoff Hopes Live
It wasn't necessarily a pretty performance, but considering the Timbers had won just once on the road prior to this game, they will absolutely take it. Kenny Cooper scored in the 25th minute when he one-timed a pass from Diego Chara. It was Cooper's third goal in his past four games, just another sign that he may be heating up just when the Timbers need him most.
From there, the Timbers really just held on. They only took two shots in the second half and effectively limited the Whitecaps’ chances.
The Whitecaps were playing the first-ever MLS game in the renovated BC Place, but could not repeat the magic of their first home opener of the season when they beat Toronto FC 4-2. Davide Chiumiento had their best chance of the day, but his shot late in the first half went just wide. As it is, they have just four wins, which would be the fewest wins in a season in MLS history.
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