CARSON, CA (KPTV) -
If their first preseason match is any indication, the Portland Timbers are ready for their sophomore season of Major League Soccer.
Fueled by a fast-start, the Timbers defeated the defending MLS champion, LA Galaxy, 4-1 at the Home Depot Center in Carson, CA, on Tuesday.
In its first game of 2012, Portland built a 2-0 lead by the ninth minute thanks to goals by forwards Bright Dike and Jorge Perlaza. Both goals were assisted by midfielder Franck Songo'o, who's currently on trial with the Timbers.
"It's always nice when you can score goals so early in the preseason. And hopefully it's a vein of form we continue to have. Finishing is usually the last thing that comes before the start of the season," said Timbers Head Coach John Spencer. "We were lucky enough today that we got some good chances, some good looks at the goal and guys put the ball in the back of the net, which is nice."
Spencer made nine substitutions at half time and the fresh faces eventually added to the team's lead.
Midfielder Kalif Alhassan gave the Timbers a 3-0 advantage about 20 minutes into the second half.
Galaxy midfielder Dan Keat pulled one back for the home team off a corner kick at the 80-minute mark, but Portland defender Futty Danso put the match out of reach just five minutes later with a penalty kick after a handball.
"It took a while for the second group to get going," Spencer said. "But once we started settling down and passing the ball, I thought we actually put in two good halves. I am really pleased with the guys."
The Timbers return to their regular training schedule Wednesday at The Home Depot Center in Carson, beginning at 10 a.m.
Their next preseason match is scheduled for Friday against MLS newcomers, the Montreal Impact.
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