The Portland Timbers are on their travels once again in the MLS this weekend, with an intriguing clash with Real Salt Lake up next. Phil Neville insisted that only the Portland Timbers' A game would be enough to get their MLS season back on track against Real Salt Lake this weekend. Portland are 10th in the Western Conference after taking 10 points from their opening 11 matches, though they did beat San Diego FC 2-1 in their last league outing. The Timbers' trip to America First Field is the last in a three-game road stretch, which started with a defeat to Minnesota United before their victory over San Diego. Neville's men return to Providence Park on May 9 to face a struggling Sporting Kansas City side, before two more road encounters against CF Montreal and Inter Miami. But the Portland boss had full focus on RSL, and he believes his team should be full of confidence heading into the game, following their stoppage-time victory against San Diego. Neville said, 'We have to continue the momentum from the game at the weekend.' The Portland Timbers will be looking to Kristoffer Velde to provide a creative spark, as he has led the way for the Timbers, posting a team-high total for goal contributions. Real Salt Lake, meanwhile, are out for a return to winning ways in MLS play, after losing back-to-back league matches against Miami and the Los Angeles Galaxy. Marco Reus scored twice, including an 85th-minute penalty, to seal the win for the Galaxy, leaving RSL down in sixth and 11 points behind the leaders, the San Jose Earthquakes. Pablo Mastroeni's side face FC Dallas, Houston Dynamo, Colorado Rapids and Minnesota ahead of the break for the World Cup, and the RSL boss has urged his team to battle past their recent blip to keep their playoff push intact. Zavier Gozo will be a key player for RSL, as he leads the team in both shots and chances created this season. The match is set to be an exciting encounter, with both teams looking to get back on track in the MLS. The Portland Timbers will be looking to build on their recent win, while Real Salt Lake will be seeking to bounce back from their recent losses. The game is scheduled to kick off at midday, and it will be a crucial test for both teams. The Portland Timbers will need to bring their A game if they are to come away with a win, as Real Salt Lake will be looking to take advantage of their home field. The Timbers' defense will need to be solid, as they face a tough test against RSL's attacking lineup. With the match just around the corner, the Portland Timbers are preparing to face a tough challenge, and they will need to be at their best if they are to come away with a win.
Review
Portland Timbers Face Road Test Against Real Salt Lake
Portland Timbers visit Real Salt Lake, seeking to build on their recent win, with Phil Neville urging his team to bring their A game in this crucial MLS match
Portland Timbers Hub