In Week 24 of the MLS, FC Cincinnati emerged victorious against the Portland Timbers with a score of 3-2, despite Kevin Kelsy’s brilliant double. Under the management of Pat Noonan, Cincinnati started strong, quickly taking the lead. The Timbers, led by Phil Neville, fought back with two goals from Kelsy (37’ of the 1st half and a penalty in the 22’ of the 2nd half), yet fell short of clinching a comeback.
One of the standout moments was Kévin Denkey’s early goal in the 9th minute. After receiving an assist from Pavel Bucha, Denkey curled a shot into the bottom right corner, leaving the goalkeeper with no chance.
Both teams had a fair share of luck, with each hitting the woodwork during the match. Players Kei Kamara and Kevin Kelsy were left frustrated as they were unable to convert their chances.
Although the Timbers attempted more shots, FC Cincinnati held on for the win. In total, Portland fired 21 shots, with 12 on target, 6 missing the mark, and 1 hitting the post.
Kelsy’s excellent performance earned him the title of Player of the Match. The Timbers forward showcased his prowess with two goals and 6 attempts on goal. Pavel Bucha was also pivotal for Cincinnati, scoring once and attempting 2 shots.
Phil Neville set up his team in a 4-3-3 formation with Maxime Crépeau guarding the net; Juan Mosquera, Finn Surman, Kamal Miller, and Jimer Fory in defense; Joao Ortiz, David da Costa, and David Ayala in the midfield; and Antony Alves, Kevin Kelsy, and Ariel Lassiter up top.
On the other hand, Pat Noonan employed a 3-5-2 strategy, placing Roman Celentano in goal; Matt Miazga, Miles Robinson, and Nick Hagglund in defense; DeAndre Yedlin, Pavel Bucha, Stiven Jimenez, Evander, and Lukas Ahlefeld Engel in midfield; and Ender Echenique and Kévin Denkey leading the line.
The match at Providence Park was officiated by referee Rubiel Vázquez.
In their next fixtures, the Timbers will travel to face Vancouver Whitecaps FC, while Cincinnati will host New York City FC.
Substitutions for Portland Timbers
57’ 2T – Joao Ortiz off for Cristhian Paredes and Kévin Denkey off for Kei Kamara
81’ 2T – Kamal Miller off for Dario Zuparic and Ariel Lassiter off for Omir Fernández
84’ 2T – David Ayala off for Felipe Mora
Yellow Cards for Portland Timbers
12’ 1T – Kevin Kelsy (Unsporting behavior)
14’ 2T – Cristhian Paredes (Unsporting behavior)
27’ 2T – Phil Neville (Unsporting behavior)
Substitutions for FC Cincinnati
58’ 2T – Ender Echenique off for Kenji Mboma
77’ 2T – Miles Robinson off for Teenage Hadebe
90’ 2T – DeAndre Yedlin off for Alvas Powell and Stiven Jimenez off for Gerardo Valenzuela
Yellow Card for FC Cincinnati
47’ 1T – Miles Robinson (Unsporting behavior)