Chivas USA and the Portland Timbers played a very wide-open game that produced plenty of good shooting opportunities on Wednesday afternoon, but they only managed to get one of those shots into the back of the net between them. It wasn't exactly a day for the strikers ... or the defenses or midfields, really. Okay, so it wasn't a great game, but Ryan Smith and Miller Bolaños managed to make a pretty in the first half, combining for the only goal in Chivas' 1-0 win.
Chivas USA Vs. Portland Timbers, 2012 MLS: One Nice Goal, Lots Of Bad Shooting In Goats Win
Steven Smith was made to look a bit silly on the goal in the 16th minute, when Ryan Smith of Chivas turned him inside-out before putting a ball across the face of goal. The entire Portland defense completely overperused the ball, allowing the cutback ball to find an unmarked Bolaños. He hit a classy finish into the roof of the net, giving Chivas an early lead.
Portland had 14 shots on the game, but Chivas had the much better scoring opportunities and looked like the better side for most of the match. This win ties Chivas for the final playoff spot in the Western Conference, with a game in hand on their rivals, the LA Galaxy. Portland are still in the West's basement. The Galaxy play on Wednesday as well, and the two Los Angeles sides meet up in their second SuperClasico of the year on Saturday.
See More:
