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Vincent Stravino's avatar

Hi Grant. I sent you a message on Messenger. Not sure if you check there. Ciao.

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Lou Hudson's avatar

“Crazy” describes it perfectly. “Helter-skelter” does, too. The finish was certainly exciting, but in general I didn’t think it was a very well-played game.

Love the line about this ending New York City’s “reign of error”. Brilliant. I’m going to steal it.

I’d been telling my buddy who’s just getting into soccer about the usually wild atmosphere for Portland games, and Timber Joey in particular. He was impressed with the constant singing, chanting, and drum pounding, especially when the Timbers Army practically exploded after Portland’s late goal. But I never saw the log cut. Did it not happen? Did ABC not show it? That’s as unique a tradition as there is anywhere.

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Lou Hudson's avatar

Thanks, Michael. The atmosphere at that game is what futbol COULD be here, and wouldn’t that be amazing!

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Michael Bales's avatar

I attended the game as part of the Timbers Army, so yes I'm biased. It was a disjointed match. NYCFC's press, passing, and organization were impressive. Their constant complaining, frequent fouls, and fall-like feathers on light contact were a chicken-shit tactic that successfully kept Portland from establishing a flow. The ref was abysmal in his inconsistency. Finally, Sean Johnson is a beast.

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Lou Hudson's avatar

Agreed about the diving. Wish VAR could influence yellow cards for that. It would stop NOW.

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Steve's avatar

ESPN didn’t start streaming the game until well after the start. I was so furious at that that it was difficult to find any enjoyment in the game.

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Timothy Turner's avatar

Valiant effort by NYCFC to hang in there and win on penalties. No telling how many new fans were earned with this epic final.

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RJF's avatar

All true, Grant. Johnson showed why he's earned USMNT callups during his career, and no way the NYCFC goal should have scored - but it allowed for one crazy finish, eh?

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