Timbers stave off Orange County to advance in US Open Cup
Blanco's return, a great outing from a young center back, and another Niezgoal
It was a little more nerve-wrecking than it needed to be — but just a little.
The Timbers bested Orange County SC 3-1 on Wednesday night to advance to the Fourth Round of the US Open Cup behind goals from Marvin Loria and Tyler Clegg. Jaroslaw Niezgoda added an insurance goal at the end of the match off a hilarious mistake from OCSC ‘keeper Cody Cropper.
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37’ — 1-0 Loria (Niezgoda)
48’ — 2-0 Clegg (Bonilla)
54’ — 2-1 M. Iloski (Amang)
90’+2’ — 3-1 Niezgoda
Who played well?
Clegg, who was making his first-team debut, put in a Man of the Match performance at center back. His headed goal powered past Cropper for the eventual match-winner.
Sebastian Blanco made his long-awaited return to the pitch, creating a pair of chances and earning a yellow before departing in the 33rd minute. Niezgoda replaced him.
Speaking of Niezgoda, the Polish striker may have been gifted his goal, but he still played well after coming on. His movement and work in tight spaces made up for Blanco’s absence (albeit in a different way).
Take Loria’s opener, where Niezgoda slid him a well-weighted ball at the top of the box after some nice footwork.
Both teams were far from clinical in the final third (nor was the referee, for that matter), but it was definitely an entertaining night.
Hunter Sulte came up with five saves, a couple of which were notably impressive. His save on Brent Richards (Camas, WA native and former Timber) late in the match was stellar stretching wide to his left.
It was Sulte’s third appearance for the first team, and only second start.
Pablo Bonilla and Noel Caliskan also deserve shouts for some nice outings.
Who struggled?
Larrys Mabiala didn’t cover himself in glory. The veteran center back allowed two chances in quick succession, the latter of which was slotted home by Milan Iloski — last year’s USL Championship Golden Boot winner.
The team still gave up chances, and a more clinical team may have made the Timbers sweat a little more, but overall it was a fun night at Providence Park.
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