The Portland Timbers are riding high after beating the Seattle Sounders in their own building. The win was built upon another brace by Brian Fernandez, leading to the 2-1 scoreline. With the win, the Timbers are just two points from a playoff place, averaging 1.40 points per game. If all goes right, a win against the Galaxy could propel them into the final playoff spot in the Western Conference.
The Galaxy just wrapped up a shootout win against Club Tijuana in the Leagues Cup. While they advanced, they did so by the hair of their chin with a heavily rotated lineup.