PORTLAND, Ore. – Giovanni Savarese climbed the capo stand after the final whistle. It was the first indication of how he felt about the result. After the Portland Timbers’ fourth home loss in six games, the team’s head coach ascended into the stadium’s North End, taking time to pay tribute to the team’s most ardent fans, the Timbers Army. After more disappointment, Savarese felt compelled to show his gratitude.
What exactly is going on? It’s a question every player, coach, fan and bystander should be asking after Wednesday’s result. After the New York Red Bulls claimed a 2-0 victory at Providence Park, the Timbers have only six points in their last four games, all at home.