The Portland Timbers visit the San Jose Earthquakes this weekend for an MLS fixture, with the Timbers looking to continue a stretch of strong play while the Earthquakes aim to reverse a recent trend of losses.
Portland enters the match second in the Western Conference standings, holding 18 points from 10 matches. The team has generated an unbeaten run that now spans seven games in league play.
That positive run includes success away from home. The Timbers have won three road matches this season, often scoring multiple goals in those contests.
Portland has become one of the most productive attacking sides in the league, tallying 17 goals in its last six outings. Overall, the team's 20 goals scored this season match San Jose and Vancouver for the league lead.
Meanwhile, the San Jose Earthquakes sit 11th in the Western Conference with 10 points from 10 matches. The team has lost its last three matches, including a road defeat last weekend.
Despite showing some improvements in performances, San Jose has allowed 15 goals over its previous six matches. The team's defensive record stands in contrast to its ability to score goals, matching Portland's total for the season.
"I think we’ve played well in a lot of games where we haven’t gotten points," San Jose defender Dave Romney said. "It’s just a matter of us being better defensively in our own 18."
Portland coach Phil Neville sees his team embracing the challenge of playing away. "It feels like we actually raise our game a little bit more away from home than we do at home," Neville said. "We play with a little bit more freedom away from home."
San Jose faces injury concerns, with several players including Hernan Lopez and Benjamin Kikanovic reportedly sidelined. Brazilian goalkeeper Daniel returned to action recently.
Portland has won the previous three head-to-head meetings against San Jose.
