Seattle vs. Portland

One of my all-time favourite football rivalries: Seattle vs. Portland has been the United States' go-to derby for the last 40 years. I really enjoy the current match-up, with the American Clint Dempsey consistently poaching the far post and with the Canadian Will Johnson dominating the midfield defensively, Portland vs. Seattle is the MLS thriller.

From the fans to the players, everyone is involved in this great Cascadia rivalry. The Timbers Army and the Emerald City Supporters are two of the biggest fan bases in the world, and the two largest in the United States.

Left-Bang Bang! Micheal Harrington embraces Diego Valeri after he scores Portland's second goal of the match, putting them up 2-1. (photo property of Portland Timbers) 




At this point in the match, I was ready to see Portland sail to victory, the way they were playing was completely brilliant, and I didn't think it would end. One great pass lead to another, and then Seattle struck, Clint Dempsey takes advantage of a poor defensive decision by Timbers centre-back Paparatto. After 24 minutes, the score was level at 2-2 Diego Chara fired back and netted a second goal for himself and a third for the Timbers. A brilliant strike from just outside the box. Chara hadn't scored a goal for over two years and scored twice today. 4/5/2015
Adding to Seattle's troubles was Maxi Urruti, who went one-on-one and curled a perfect shot to the upper right 90. Portland's success didn't look like it would falter(this time) and I thought too soon.

Clint Dempsey wouldn't settle for anything less than a tie. He went to town and game back with two goals. Making the final score 4-4.

Right-From the Spot. Seattle's captain Clint Dempsey complete his hat trick on a converted penalty in the 87th minute, salvaging a draw for the Sounders. (photo property of Clint Dempsey fanpage)

It was seriously a great game to watch Live. Portland vs. Seattle is the one matchup I'll travel to see, I've watched it now three times in Portland and once in Seattle, and let me tell you. Seattle and Portland play on a whole new level when it's against their rivals.

My analysis is extremely brief because I wasn't able to type my thoughts into my Ipad during the match because I was clinging to the edge of my seat. Check out MLS' recap of the match and get a full taste of the intensity involved.

What is/was your favorite Cascadia Clash match? Who won?