Most of the time, we can ignore it, but on rare occasions it’s important to note: There’s enough shared history between the Portland Timbers and Seattle Sounders FC that, when it comes to the clubs’ rivalry, their fanbases can be thankful.
As SoundersFC.com notes in a related list, that history, tension, competition and, yes, partnership has driven the rivalry to new heights. Consider that the last time a team other than the Timbers or Sounders represented the Western Conference at MLS Cup, Landon Donovan and Thierry Henry, now long beyond the MLS’ limelight, were the league’s marquee stars.