Both the San Jose Earthquakes and the Portland Timbers entered with good form which made this match even more important for both teams as they are both apart of the better teams in the MLS. San Jose, has been displaying impressive performances throughout the season while still remaining undefeated, up to this point, at home.
(Portland Timber Players during the USA National Anthem in San Jose, California)
This match was under a microscope for the San Jose fans because a win would boost the team up the rankings in the West, and in the MLS standings in general. The fans at PayPal park were ready to cheer on their team and establish the home-field advantage as the Earthquakes have been paying well for majority of the season, but have been playing even better at home with wins against the likes of LAFC and Philadelphia Union. With the return of goalkeep Daniel in between the post, it seems the Quakes have been able to really anchor their defensive back in order to make it difficult for opposing attackers to score.
(Ousseni Bouda in-action against Portland Timbers in San Jose, California)
Coach Luchi Gonzalez has really been able to lead his team into a positive direction, and it's reflecting in the team record, in the players, and even in the eyes of the fans. There is an electric buzz being on the pitch in San Jose, and it makes every moment feel eve more important than the last. For the in game action both teams had their moments for a chance to score, but the goalkeeping was the main highlight throughout the game. Both Daniel and Bingham were able to hold their own between the posts with both keepers maintaining a clean sheet.
Daniel has been a major factor in the last few games for the Earthquakes, and has been a major help on the back line of the defense. There seems to be a uptick when the ball gets passed the half line, and the pacing seems to be even better. JT Marcinkowski had been doing pretty well within the goal earlier in the season, but Daniel has been been able to take his command back and able to really assert himself as one of the more impressive goalkeepers in the MLS today. Out of the other keepers in the league who have played the exact amount of games Daniel has this year, in regular season play, he has the least amount of goals scored against him. San Jose has their home advantage and Daniel will be a great piece to continue them defending their home.
(San Jose Ultras showing support for the San Jose Earthquakes)