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In a closely contested MLS match this Saturday, forward Cucho Hernandez made a striking return to form, securing the opening goal for the Columbus Crew against the Portland Timbers. Despite early setbacks, it was defender Steven Moreira’s critical equalizer that ensured the Crew avoided a loss at Lower.com Field, maintaining their recent trend of draws in both league and international competitions.
The match concluded with a 2-2 scoreline, marking the Crew’s fourth consecutive draw in MLS play and their sixth across all competitions, including the CONCACAF Champions Cup. The Crew’s resilience was on full display as they rallied from a deficit, with both goals occurring after falling behind.
Moreira, in his fourth year with the Crew, showcased his rare scoring ability by firing a decisive shot from the edge of the penalty area into the top left corner in the 74th minute. This was only his second MLS goal, the first being against FC Cincinnati last year. Reflecting on his performance, Moreira expressed satisfaction, revealing encouragement from teammates and fans alike to take more shooting opportunities, which he capitalized on in this game.
Portland’s Felipe Mora was a standout for the Timbers, extending his scoring streak to four games with an early goal that gave his team the lead. The goal originated from midfielder Eryk Williamson’s precise play, allowing Mora to navigate past the Crew’s defense and find the net. Despite the Timbers’ subsequent offensive efforts, including a notable attempt by top scorer Evander Da Silva Ferreira, the Crew’s defense, led by Rudy Camacho, managed to keep the game within reach.
Tensions were high on the sidelines as well, with Timbers coach Phil Neville visibly frustrated, earning a yellow card for his protests to the referees. Meanwhile, Crew coach Wilfried Nancy noted the inability to discern the reasons behind Neville’s dissatisfaction.
Cucho Hernandez also played a pivotal role in the Crew’s performance. Coming off a brief period marked by suspensions and a scoring drought since mid-March, Hernandez seized the opportunity to mark his 25th birthday with a crucial goal, initially ruled offside earlier in the game. His eventual goal, assisted by Diego Rossi, was a testament to his renewed vigor, much to the approval of Coach Nancy.
Despite Portland regaining the lead shortly after Hernandez's goal, Moreira’s timely strike kept the Crew from tasting defeat at home, where they have been unbeaten since May 2023. The Crew faced challenges with Portland’s larger defenders, prompting tactical adjustments at halftime that eventually aided in balancing the match dynamics.
Coach Nancy critiqued the team's initial lack of pace and rhythm, emphasizing the adjustments made in the second half to enhance their offensive thrust, particularly on the left flank.
This draw underlines the Crew's tenacity and collective spirit, as echoed by Moreira, who praised the team’s unyielding mentality. The match not only highlighted individual heroics but also demonstrated the strategic shifts that enabled the Crew to salvage a crucial point in their campaign.
