Explore every episode of the podcast Timbers Time

It’s Timbers Time and this week Chris and Matt have very different opinions as to whether we should be concerned or unconcerned by the narrow 1-0 loss to Atlanta United, and recent form in general, with real systemic improvements in the team somewhat overshadowed by poor finishing and a growing sense of frustration against a well organized low block… we look into Cole Bassett’s goalscoring prowess and patterns of scoring, Marti is still mad about something intriguing, Matt has a Providence Park popcorn tip and much more … RCTID!

This episode's key talking points include:

• Was Velde back to his selfish worst this game or did he just have no options?

• Are recent games evidence that Ned let Marti down with a lack of attacking signings in the summer transfer window?

• Should we be concerned or unconcerned about recent form? Matt and Chris disagree…

• Do clean sheets against SKC even really count?

• Are we creating the right kind of chances for Cole Bassett and what attacking statistic is Cole 99th Percentile at this season?

• The Timbers came out with a really strong first thirty minutes on both sides of the ball but struggled with a goal deficit game state

• Waterman is bringing some much needed verbal and organizational leadership to the back line

• Chara makes a lung busting run and miracle block and then takes a quick old man nap to recover

• Finn is angry at his passing error in the lead up to the first goal but he should be proud of the significant improvements in his passing game recently

• Marti says “It’s very clear what we’re missing” - what does he mean?

• T2 Win the Pacific Division!

• Is it fair to annual members to sell deeply discounted tickets?

• San Jose next game preview

  
  

Content Warning: A few “s” words and similar moderate swears 

Timestamps:

(0:00) Introduction

(0:23) Intro Chat - Recent Form - Concerned or Unconcerned?

(5:52) Intro Chat - Clean Sheets

(9:25) Bassetwatch! Cole’s Goalscoring Analysis

(20:08) Atlanta (H) - Pre-Game Analysis

(28:00) Atlanta (H) - First Half Analysis

(44:57) Atlanta (H) - Second Half Analysis

(55:26) Atlanta (H) - Post Game Analysis

(1:01:26) Timbers News & T2 Update

(1:05:27) MLS News Roundup

(1:07:23) Next Episode Preview - San Jose (A)

Listener Topics and Questions!

Thanks for listening and please do send us your questions or topics for analysis for the next episode: ⁠⁠⁠timberstimepod@gmail.com or DM us on IG: timberstimepod or leave us a Reddit comment on our episodic r/Timbers post

It’s Timbers Time and this week we cover the team’s last two fixtures, with a really entertaining 2-2 draw against St Louis followed by a narrow loss to Dallas in Texas, but the team showed a lot of promise if not a lot of points…, are we seeing the positive beginnings of Martiball beginning to form? There’s lots to talk about as Velde has quite the birthday, Kamal Miller continues his regression and Chara looks revitalized… RCTID!

This episode's key talking points include:

• Marti tells us what’s going with the penalty taking battle

• If the best defenders are “Rolls Royces”, what is Kamal Miller?

• We compare terrible footballer tattoos

• St Louis show their appreciation for Janssen’s hold up play by kicking him repeatedly from behind

• Does Bassett officially have the shooting yips?

• Does Chara and Ortiz playing together give us a better balance between attack and defense?

• Velde’s on ball decision making has improved drastically recently, does Marti get the credit?

• Have our near post corner routines been scouted out of effectiveness?

• Chara is having a new lease of life since Neville left and is about to break the MLS record for any appearances by a Timber in the league

• The Timbers broadly defend really well in the heat in Dallas despite 3 changes to the back 4

• Marti has quickly adapted to how to get the best from Gage Guerra

• Antony’s inability to beat his man off the dribble holds the timbers back in Texas

• Finn Surman's passing game is definitely improving, good news for him thriving under Marti’s system 

• While individual errors were the obvious problem, a lack of ball pressure in a deep block cost the timbers a goal in both games

• The studs up challenge on Waterman was an obvious red, and the VAR failure to overturn the on field call was mystifying

• The Lassiter / Hernandez right side combination looked promising

  
  

Content Warning: One “f” word, a few “s” words and similar moderate swears 

Timestamps:

(0:00) Introduction

(1:00) Chit Chat - Lake Life & Janssen Doubters

(3:38) St Louis (H) - Pre-Game & Lineups Analysis

(11:10) St Louis (H) - First Half Analysis

(22:41) St Louis (H) - Second Half Analysis

(30:21) St Louis (H) - Post Game Thoughts - Pressers, MOTM & Notable Performances

(35:25) Dallas (A) - Pre-Game & Lineups Analysis

(41:28) Dallas (A) - First Half Analysis

(49:52) Dallas (A)  - Second Half Analysis

(1:02:44) Dallas (A) - Post Game Thoughts - Pressers, MOTM & Notable Performances

(1:08:29) Timbers News & T2 Update

(1:13:07) MLS News Roundup

(1:15:40) Next Episode Preview

Listener Topics and Questions!

Thanks for listening and please do send us your questions or topics for analysis for the next episode: ⁠⁠⁠timberstimepod@gmail.com or DM us on IG: timberstimepod or leave us a Reddit comment on our episodic r/Timbers post

It’s Timbers Time and the hat-trick curse is FINALLY broken as Vincent Janssen has a magical first start in Portland, taking home the match ball and three log slices for the first time in Timbers MLS history. And it’s part of a wild 5-4 game against Minnesota that was both entertaining and anxiety-inducing! We do our usual match analysis plus a deep dive on the Timbers’ transfer window, we assess the signings, the sales, the state of the roster and Ned’s performance as GM…. RCTID!

This episode's key talking points include:

• After a FIFTEEN year wait, the TImbers finally have a hat trick!

• Digging into Ned’s transfer window press conference revelations

• After Janssen’s insane game, do we need another striker?

• Ned has failed to sign U22 attacker targets in two successive windows, what level of criticism is fair?

• There’s a lot of pressure on the next transfer window now

• Why did the team choose to reject large bids for Finn? Can we keep him long term?

• If Finn doesn’t stay, is Waterman the long term replacement at right CB?

• Homegrown T2 stud Eric Izoita joins the first team and we have a chant ready!

• Ned talked about a contract extension for Pants - how should the team approach that given his erratic performances?

• Is Marti frustrated at the Front Office for the transfer window? Should he be?

• Finally some good injury news!

• Janssen dropping deep to provide an outlet pass was key to ending our struggle to progress the ball from the back

• Marti’s adapting to more direct play at times of high pressure is good pragmatism

• The woodwork still hates us, are we due some luck?

• Lassiter’s strike going down as an OG is a tragedy, should there be a rule change?

• Kamal Miller’s run of improved form comes to a very abrupt end

• Who was to blame for the comically terrible third Minnesota goal?

• Matt’s hat gets a new home

• Open cup is back! We discuss why it’s such an important competition

  
  

Content Warning: A single f bomb, some “s” words and similar moderate swears

Timestamps:

(0:00) Introduction

(0:24) Chit Chat - Holiday Weekend Party In Portland

(1:57) Transfer Window Analysis - Intro

(3:55) Transfer Window Analysis - Strikers

(8:47) Transfer Window Analysis - Wingers & Failed U22 DP Signings

(16:43) Transfer Window Analysis - Defense

(27:18) Transfer Window Analysis - Central Midfield

(29:55) Transfer Window Analysis - Goalkeeper

(33:15) Transfer Windows Analysis - Ned and Marti Speak

(40:08) Minnesota (H) - Pre-Game & Lineups Analysis

(47:04) Minnesota (H) - First Half Analysis

(1:02:48) Minnesota (H)  - Second Half Analysis

(1:15:19) Minnesota (H) - Post Game Thoughts - Pressers, MOTM & Notable Performances

(1:18:18) Timbers News & T2 Update

(1:21:35) Quiz Corner & MLS News Roundup

(1:25:00) Next Episode Preview: St Louis (H)

Listener Topics and Questions!

Thanks for listening and please do send us your questions or topics for analysis for the next episode: ⁠⁠⁠timberstimepod@gmail.com or DM us on IG: timberstimepod or leave us a Reddit comment on our episodic r/Timbers post

It’s Timbers Time and in this week’s episode we break down the last minute chaos in the 2-1 loss to Austin as the Timbers pull the game back from the brink near the end and then throw it away again in comic fashion, but how much can we learn from this game with key players absent? Was it right to sell Kelsy for that big pile of cash? And are we getting enough defense from our 8s? We look at the numbers and do some analysis…  RCTID!

This episode's key talking points include:

• Kevin Kelsy departs for Europe! We rate the sale as our young striker moves to Glasgow for big money

• Austin had the worst away record in the MLS, how did we not see this was a trap game?

• What was Marti trying to achieve by tucking Caicedo into the back 5?

• The lack accuracy of the game day information on mlssocer.com is embarrassing for the league

• Eric Miller’s on ball limitations were painfully felt in attempting to build out from the back and Marti was notably concerned about his right back position in his presser…

• Why we need another striker but this isn’t the game to judge Gage Guerra on

• Do we have the personnel to play out of the back? Will Marti pursue a slow build up or pragmatically shift to more direct play like he did in the second half due to the squad makeup?

• We’re loving the new Fory chant, and need more player specific songs

• The first Austin goal was very nicely done but went wrong in the Portland defense?

• Despite an overall sub-par performance, Velde’s decision making in the final third continues to improve

• With the transfer deadline closing in, will Finn Surman’s insanely good blocks this game be the last we see of him or can we not afford to sell him right now?

• Antony finally shows some fire and commitment in his appearance off the bench… Is this organic or is he trying to impress potential transfer suitors?

• The Timbers finally get some penalty luck but luck has the last laugh minutes later

• The eye test says our two 8s are not giving us much on defense, but what do the numbers say? We ran a statistical analysis on Da Costa and Bassett against some other players in the league…

• The finish to the weekend’s T2 game was one for the ages!

• Ned has a lot of work to do before the deadline closes…

  
  

Content Warning: Some “s” words and similar moderate swears

Timestamps:

(0:00) Introduction

(1:04) Chit Chat - Fall Vibes

(3:02) Transfer Reaction - Kevin Kelsy Departs

(9:46) Austin (H) - Pre-Game & Lineups Analysis

(19:50) Austin (H) - First Half Analysis

(32:28) Austin (H)  - Second Half Analysis

(52:50) Austin (H) -  Full Time Thoughts, MOTM & Notable Performances

(54:54) Austin (H) - Post Game Pressers

(59:11) The Problem With the Timbers 8s - A Statistical Analysis

(1:09:26) Timbers News - Transfers & T2 Update

(1:13:04) MLS News and Transfer Window Activity

(1:18:01) Next Episode Preview: Minnesota (H)

Listener Topics and Questions!
Thanks for listening and please do send us your questions or topics for analysis for the next episode: ⁠⁠⁠timberstimepod@gmail.com or DM us on IG:  timberstimepod or leave us a Reddit comment on our episodic r/Timbers post

It’s Timbers Time and in this episode we analyze two good results against San Diego and LAFC as new coach Marti Cifuentes settles in and shows both his tactical nous and his pragmatism with some formational tweaks. Also on the show there’s transfer talk, ACL science, billionaire’s dinner time, and much more… RCTID!

This episode's key talking points include:

• How Cifuentes changed the press against San Diego as a stark contrast to how Neville’s approach saw us take repeated heavy defeats against the same opposition

• The Timbers get their long range shooting boots on with some style

• When Velde shares the ball really, really good things are happening, and post-Neville tactics have provided options around him

• Get well soon Brandon Bye, a crushing injury for our Right Back... Is the turf to blame? Workload? We dig into the science behind ACL injuries

• It’s so refreshing to have a coach that will actually talk tactics in press conferences

• Caicedo’s expansive passing range unlocked our transition offense, but does his defensive side have room to grow? Is Chara the perfect mentor?

• The picture perfect counter attack between Velde and Da Costa has to be a goal of the season contender

• Is Pants a hockey goalie? Those were some crazy kick saves…

• Are a few small possessions of intricate passing at the back a preview of “tiki taka” life under Cifuentes?

• Eric Miller did a really good job against Bouanga but how  did his lack of offensive ability affect the team’s play?

• What went wrong for the Bouanga goal? How do we assess the shot’s xG vs xGOT?

• The Timbers’ recent offensive production is eyebrow-raising, and Velde is a big part of that

• What’s to blame for all these ACL injuries in the modern game?

• Merritt confesses he should have sacked Phil Neville sooner

• Ned has a LOT to do between now and the MLS Transfer Deadline on September 2, including making a big decision on increasing bids for Finn Surman

  
  

Content Warning: Some “s” words and similar moderate swears

Timestamps:

(0:00) Introduction

(0:24) Chit Chat

(2:10) San Diego (H) - Pre-Game & Lineups Analysis

(5:43) San Diego (H) - First Half Analysis

(10:58) San Diego (H)  - Second Half Analysis & Full Time Thoughts

(22:44) LAFC (A) - Pre-Game & Lineups Analysis

(27:20) LAFC (A) - First Half Analysis

(40:51) LAFC (A)  - Second Half Analysis

(51:45) LAFC (A) -  Full Time Thoughts - MOTM & Notable Performances

(59:58) LAFC (A) - Cifuentes Post-Game Presser

(1:03:09) Listener Questions!

(1:06:56) Timbers News - Brandon Bye, Turf, and ACL Science

(1:12:46) Timbers News - Cifuentes Introduction Presser & Transfer Speculation

(1:19:11) Timbers News - T2 Update

(1:21:28) MLS News and Transfer Window Activity

(1:28:05) Next Episode Preview: Austin (H)

Listener Topics and Questions!

Thanks for listening and please do send us your questions or topics for analysis for the next episode: ⁠⁠⁠timberstimepod@gmail.com or DM us on IG:  timberstimepod or leave us a Reddit comment on our episodic r/Timbers post

It’s Timbers Time and in this episode we analyze Marti Cifuentes' start as Timbers coach as he begins his tenure with a 3-1 home win against Club Tijuana and a 2-1 road loss to the Chicago Fire. We discuss the squad depth as tiredness starts to hit in a tough run of short rest games, and Kevin Kelsy’s value as a big bid from Europe comes in for our in form striker…  RCTID!

This episode's key talking points include:

• We bemoan a lack of squad rotation that left the team leggy on the road, and dig into the depth chart to discuss if a shallow roster is to blame and what positions we should target before the transfer window closes in two weeks’ time

• The team bounce back from a drab first half to beat a rotated Tijuana team comfortably with a dominant second 45

• Is Velde having composure problems with his shooting or is it just poor shot selection?

• Has Trey Muse done enough to prove he’s a capable backup?

• We’re very disappointed not to see any Izoita minutes in Leagues Cup, especially as his fine form has led T2 to their first playoff appearance since 2018

• The pitch in Chicago is a disgrace and Cifuentes is right to call it out publicly

• A comedy of defensive errors gives Chicago a two goal lead

• Velde and Fory are carrying a lot of the Timbers’ offensive load down the left recently

• The Bye back post header routine strikes again! The Timbers are making the most of set piece opportunities with their tall roster and volume of dead ball plays

• An astonishing last gasp two on one defensive stop caps an excellent week of play from young left back Jimer Fory

• How bad a loss was the road defeat in Chicago in totality?

• Will Finn’s recent downturn of form cost the Timbers in transfer fees when he moves? Is now the right time to sell him if he won’t sign a new deal in Portland?

• What do we make of Rangers’ $10m bid for Kevin Kelsy? What’s a price we can’t say no to for our in-form young striker?

  
  

Content Warning: Some “s” words and similar moderate swears

Timestamps:

(0:00) Introduction

(1:00) Chit Chat - Grumpy Fans, Heavy Schedule

(4:02) Tijuana (H) - Pre-Game & Lineups Analysis

(9:32) Tijuana (H) - First Half Analysis

(16:51) Tijuana (H)  - Second Half Analysis & Full Time Thoughts

(27:49) Chicago (A) - Pre-Game & Lineups Analysis, Field Issues

(31:57) Chicago (A) - First Half Analysis

(41:39) Chicago (A) - Second Half Analysis

(51:44) Chicago (A) -  Full Time Thoughts & Man of the Match

(57:12) Chicago (A) -  Post Game Pressers

(1:04:41) Do the Timbers have Depth Issues? What Positions Should We Target?

(1:11:05) Timbers News Roundup - Rangers Bid $10 for Kelsy! T2 Make The Playoffs!

(1:17:42) MLS News and Transfers

(1:19:38) Next Episode Preview: San Diego and LAFC

Listener Topics and Questions!

Thanks for listening and please do send us your questions or topics for analysis for the next episode: ⁠⁠⁠timberstimepod@gmail.com or DM us on IG:  timberstimepod or leave us a Reddit comment on our episodic r/Timbers post

It’s Timbers Time and Leagues Cup is here! The Timbers faced two Liga MX teams last week of very different calibers and they produced similarly different performances with lots to break down. We dissect what went right in the 5-2 win against Puebla and what went wrong in the very “CONCACAF-y” 3-1 defeat to Club America, plus we rate the winners and the losers from the squad rotations in these two games… RCTID!

This episode's key talking points include:

• Leagues Cup vibes hit different, but who are they for?

• How the team failed to adjust properly to Boniteg being off the field

• Velde’s “frustrating talent” is on overdrive with both brilliance and selfishness

• Da Costa at False 9 is an intriguing experiment with both pros and cons

• Would Ian Smith be best as a wing back?

• How do we rate Trey Muse’s appearances as backup goalkeeper?

• “Professionalism” or “Unethical” - the fine lines of CONCACAF game management

• The club makes a small fortune selling tickets to Club America fans, but at what cost?

• The Timbers hold their own against CA for a half but get found out in the second half

• Cassidy loses his unbeaten record but should still leave proud of his achievements

• Some of our rotation players look brutally low on confidence

• Predicting Jack Cassidy’s next career steps

• Will Cassidy’s success make it more difficult for Cifuentes to take over at the start of a tougher run of fixtures?

• Scouting T2 for Eric Izoita’s profile, growth and fit in Cifuentes’ system

  
  

Content Warning: Some “s” words and similar moderate swears. You can’t talk about CONCACAF without saying s**thousery, it’s impossible. Even Velde lost his cool with some "s" bombs in the post game… I rest my case!

Timestamps:

(0:00) Introduction

(0:23) Chit Chat - The Odyssey, Leagues Cup Vibes

(3:01) Puebla (H) - Pre-Game & Lineups Analysis

(6:41) Puebla (H) - First Half Analysis

(15:39) Puebla (H) - Second Half Analysis + Full Time Thoughts

(22:38) Club America (H) - Pre-Game & Lineups Analysis

(27:12) Club America (H) - First Half Analysis

(35:46) Club America (H) - Second Half Analysis + Full Time Thoughts

(42:52) Roster Winners and Losers from Leagues Cup Performances

(52:37) Timbers News Roundup - Cifuentes Takes Over from Cassidy

(57:17) T2 Update - Eric Izoita Updated Scouting Report

(59:37) MLS News and Transfers

(1:06:27 Next Episode Preview: Tijuana and Chicago 

Listener Topics and Questions!

Thanks for listening and please do send us your questions or topics for analysis for the next episode: ⁠⁠⁠timberstimepod@gmail.com or DM us on IG:  timberstimepod or leave us a Reddit comment on our episodic r/Timbers post

It’s Timbers Time and the fish have been gutted again! In this episode we discuss the 2-1 home win over our hated rivals Seattle, completing the season sweep in a matter of weeks. The good vibes are back at Providence Park, the fans are in celebratory mood and the incredible tifo was the cherry on the top. After breaking down the game we talk about Chara’s comeback, opinions on Pantemis, Leagues Cup opportunities for depth players and promising youngsters, and we have a sponsor suggestion for the Sounders… RCTID!

This episode's key talking points include:

• An insane tifo from the Timbers Army both inspires Portland and undermines Seattle

• After three games of tape on coach Cassidy, Seattle was much better prepared for our new style of play

• The Timbers start off slow again and an early Seattle strike has the nerves jangling

• Kelsy gets poor marks for his dive in the box but his phenomenal goalscoring run continues… will he start to attract interest from bigger clubs?

• Concerns about our attacking midfielders turning down shooting chances

• Is Lassiter producing enough to merit a long term starting spot?

• Chara’s retirement suddenly feels a lot further away than it did last month

• Digging into differences of opinions on Pants and gaps in goalkeeping analytics

• Were the team falling into old habits at times in this weakest performance of Cassidy’s tenure?

• Brian Schmetzer has an absolute meltdown

• Is the threat of VAR ruining live goal celebrations for fans?

• Is Leagues Cup an opportunity to experiment with our 8s and Wing squad rotations?

• UEFA’s statement on a new FIFA private equity investment plan mirrors our concerns with the Timbers financing

• Which of our Backups and T2 players might have the opportunity to breakout in Leagues Cup?

  
  

Content Warning: Some “s” words and similar moderate swears

Timestamps:

(0:00) Introduction

(0:45) Chit Chat - Derby Delight, Schmetzer Meltdown

(2:44) Seattle (H) - Pre-Game Pressers & Injury Report

(4:59) Seattle (H) - Lineups Analysis & Pre-Game

(8:47) Seattle (H) - First Half Analysis

(20:54) Seattle (H) - Second Half Analysis

(33:32) Seattle (H)  - Man of the Match & Notable Performances

(41:40) Assessing James Pantemis and Gaps In Goalkeeping Analytics

(48:20) Seattle (H)  - Timbers Post-Game Pressers

(51:17) Seattle (H) - Seattle Post-Game - Schmetzer Meltdown

(53:47) Listener Question - Experimenting with different eights during Leagues Cup

(57:29) Listener Question - Is VAR Spoiling the Enjoyment of Goals?

(1:00:25) Timbers & T2 News Roundup

(1:02:11) Leagues Cup Roster 

(1:04:09) MLS News - Jersey Sponsor Jokes, Transfer News

(1:10:27) World News - UEFA Fights Private Equity

(1:13:19) Next Pod & Leagues Cup Preview

Listener Topics and Questions!

Thanks for listening and please do send us your questions or topics for analysis for the next episode: ⁠⁠⁠timberstimepod@gmail.com or DM us on IG:  timberstimepod or leave us a Reddit comment on our episodic r/Timbers post

It's Timbers Time and in this episode we report on the home win against RSL as a heartwarmingly emotional Pipe Mora scores both goals in his final game in green and gold to lead the Timbers to victory…. Plus part two of the deep dive on our new coach Marti Cifuentes, this time focusing on his “Cruyffismo” management style and his tactics in his own words, both on and off the ball. Plus a big new striker signing! RCTID!

This episode's key talking points include:

• Felipe Mora’s final performance is an appropriate swansong for a Timbers’ legend

• Our favorite Mora goals as a Timber

• Mora’s replacement is already signed and surprisingly high caliber

• Velde’s mercurial performance has us both amazed and frustrated in equal measures

• Is Chara getting “reputation” yellow cards?

• Concerns about Basset’s defensive contributions

• The “expressive, structured, and attacking” style favored by our new coach

• Analyzing Cifuentes’ style of football both on and off the ball

• How Cifuentes’ well defined press would avoid goals like the Houston winner earlier from this year

• Why his style of coaching favors high soccer IQ players

• How Cifuentes’ on ball positional rotations should minimize counter attacking threats

• Who are the winners and losers on the roster in terms of stylistic fit for what the new coach wants to do?

• Why did the Timbers decide to trade Felipe Mora?

• How the Timbers got a player of the caliber of new striker Vincent Janssen

• Is Seattle at home now a “Trap Game”?

  
  

Content Warning: Some “s” words

Timestamps:

(0:00) Introduction

(0:22) Chit Chat - Mora’s Storybook Ending, Kelsey Haters

(6:12) RSL (H) - Pre-Game Pressers & Injury Report

(9:33) RSL (H) - Lineups Analysis

(11:04) RSL (H) - First Half Analysis

(22:43) RSL (H) - Second Half Analysis

(31:11) RSL (H) - Man of the Match 

(33:28) RSL (H)  - Post-Game Pressers

(37:12) Marti Cifuentes Special Pt. 2 - High Level Tactical Style

(41:43) Marti Cifuentes Special Pt. 2 - Off The Ball Tactics

(48:56) Marti Cifuentes Special Pt. 2 - On The Ball Tactics

(1:05:11) Listener Question - Cifuentes Tactical Fit Winners and Losers 

(1:11:35) Listener Question - Why did the Timbers Trade Felipe Mora?

(1:15:54) Timbers News - A New Striker Signs & T2 Keep Rolling

(1:21:09) MLS News

(1:21:56) Seattle (H) Preview

Listener Topics and Questions!

Thanks for listening and please do send us your questions or topics for analysis for the next episode: ⁠⁠⁠timberstimepod@gmail.com or DM us on IG:  timberstimepod or leave us a Reddit comment on our episodic r/Timbers post

It's Timbers Time and we have a new coach in Portland with Marti Cifuentes on his way to Rose City after a “vigorous” hiring process…  we dig into his coaching history and start to unpack what his hire means for the team! Meanwhile on the pitch there's an exciting, if ultimately frustrating, 2-2 draw with Dallas at Providence Park with plenty to discuss including four post bonks, two penalty shouts and a Santi Moreno boo-fest. RCTID!

This episode's key talking points include:

• Marti Cifuentes is the new coach!

• The Timbers again live dangerously during a slow start

• Should Da Costa or Kelsy have had a penalty?

• Antony’s creating problems but there’s frustrated at his final pass

• Velde’s introduction changed the game but has he missed a memo?

• Should Johansson have been sent off for Dallas?

• The choice of position for the vacant U23 DP is interesting in this new 433

• The horror backpass from Arravena brings us back to opening day

• Was a draw a fair result?

• Velde’s positioning map tells an interesting tactical story

• Did Santi deserve the same chants from the army as Evander got?

• Why was Cifuentes chosen over fellow finalist Thomas Christiansen?

• What was “vigorous” about the hiring process?

• What Marti’s previous coaching job tells us about his pedigree 

• Should fans be concerned about his job-hopping history?

• How much of Cifuentes’ core coaching style have we already seen?

• Lots of big transfers in MLS!

  
  

Content Warning: Some s words, some suggestive themes

Timestamps:

(0:00) Introduction

(0:22) Chit Chat - The Timbers Appoint Marti Cifuentes!

(2:52) Dallas (H) - Pre-Game Pressers & Injury Report

(7:34) Dallas (H) - Lineups Analysis

(9:45) Dallas (H) - First Half Analysis

(20:37) Dallas (H) - Second Half Analysis

(48:08) Dallas (H)  - Post-Game Pressers

(50:39) Marti Cifuentes Special Pt. 1 - The Hiring Process

(59:38) Marti Cifuentes Special Pt. 1 - Playing and Coaching Background

(1:16:51) Quick T2 Update

(1:17:18) MLS Transfer New

(1:19:53) Real Salt Lake (H) Preview

Listener Topics and Questions!

Thanks for listening and please do send us your questions or topics for analysis for the next episode: ⁠⁠⁠timberstimepod@gmail.com or DM us on IG:  timberstimepod or leave us a Reddit comment on our episodic r/Timbers post

It's Timbers Time and Seattle have taken one hell of a beating! In this episode, in celebratory mood, we break down the action at Lumen Field, take in the immaculate vibes, and do a deep dive analysis of the major systemic changes since Phil’s departure that helped fuel this huge win.

This episode's key talking points include:

• The Timbers record an historic victory away in Seattle

• Eight Tactical Reasons the Timbers looked so much better than under Phil

• The Timberssphere swoons over Handsome Jack “Butch” Cassidy

• How Seattle injuries allowed the Timbers to dominate on the left wing

• After an early wobble the Timbers settle into a confident on ball display

• Jordan Morris’s invisibility in derby games

• Putting Da Costa, Chara, Kelsy and other key players, in the right spaces to succeed

• Should Rothrock have been booked for simulation on the PK call?

• Laughing at the Fireworks celebrating a meaningless late Seattle goal

• What perfect timing this would have been for a first Timbers MLS Hat Trick

• Was balancing structured and organic movement the key to success?

• Kelsy’s impressive statistical production this year

• How the Sounders four total headers won sum up the Timbers’ defensive improvements

• Is Schmetzer to blame for the Sounders defeat?

• Amid some big moves in MLS, is the lack of Timbers transfer activity a surprise?

• Is the beginning of Leagues Cup the perfect time for a new manager to bed in?

  
  

(Deep Dive Tactical Breakdown of new manager Marti Cifuentes coming in the next episode covering the Dallas home game as the news broke hours after recording)

Content Warning: One or two little "s" words

Timestamps:

(0:00) Introduction

(1:00) Chit Chat - The Timbers Dominate in Seattle

(5:16) Chit Chat - World Cup Vibes & Episode Overview

(8:32) Seattle (A) - Pre-Game Pressers & Injury Report

(13:03) Seattle (A) - Lineups Analysis

(19:07) Seattle (A) - First Half Analysis

(32:05) Seattle (A) - Second Half Analysis

(49:21) Seattle (A)  - Jack Cassidy’s Post-Game Press Conference

(53:04) Seattle (A)  - Players Post-Game Press Conferences

(55:22) Tactical Analysis - Eight Systemic Reasons the Timbers Looked So Much Better 

(1:05:49) How Much Of This Win Is On Seattle and Schmetzer?

(1:08:17) Hot Off The Presses - Marti Cifuentes Appointment

(1:08:55) Timbers News - Coach Speculation, T2, A Surprise Lack of Transfer News?

(1:15:04) MLS News -  Lots of Big Transfer News and First Round of Matches

(1:19:53) Dallas (A) Preview

Listener Topics and Questions!

Thanks for listening and please do send us your questions or topics for analysis for the next episode: ⁠⁠⁠timberstimepod@gmail.com or DM us on IG:  timberstimepod

It's Timbers Time! With GM Ned Grabavoy speaking recently on the team’s next coaching hire and summer transfer plans, in the shadow of the world cup Matt and Chris get stuck into what’s next for the team in terms of coaching and talk potential roster additions and departures with a full breakdown of Ned’s talking points plus an analysis of team needs, and potential moves, in every part of the pitch… RCTID!

This episode's key talking points include:

• Coach hire likely in the next few weeks!

• World Cup Chat

• Why the Timbers may have passed on Jim Curtin

• Potential head coach hires coaching at the World Cup

• How much say should a coach have on transfers?

• Talk of a DP 9 is over, but the hunt for a new U22 DP is on!

• What might the frontline and backline reinforcements be that Ned talked of?

• How has the World Cup affected Finn Surman’s transfer value?

• Why the current midfield roster is a tactical conundrum for the new coach

• Jack Cassidy promoted from T2 to run training camp

• MLS players at the World Cup & Pants not making the Canada squad

• Big MLS Transfers - Lewandowski, Casemiro and Santi Gimenez join the league?

• An extra Timbers game is added to the schedule!

Content Warning: One F bomb, some lesser swears

Timestamps:

(0:00) Introduction

(0:57) World Cup chat

(6:46) Ned Speaks - Moving on from Phil’s Firing

(10:02) Ned Speaks - Coaching Hire Process

(16:03) Ned Speaks - Progress on the Hire

(22:04) Thoughts on Thomas Christiansen

(27:29) Ned Speaks - The Transfer Window

(30:03) Roster Review, Transfer Needs & Speculation - Defence

(40:45) Roster Review, Transfer Needs & Speculation - Midfield

(48:25) Roster Review, Transfer Needs & Speculation - Forwards

(51:55) Timbers News - Jack Cassidy is our Temporary Coach & Exhibition Game

(56:55) MLS at the World Cup

(1:05:53) MLS Transfers and Transfer Rumors

Listener Topics and Questions!

Thanks for listening and please do send us your questions or topics for analysis for the next episode: ⁠⁠⁠timberstimepod@gmail.com or DM us on IG:  timberstimepod

It's Timbers Time and Phil Neville is no more! Chris and Matt talk briefly about how a calamitous start sealed his fate as he’s outcoached by Uncle Bruce in the 3-1 home defeat to San Jose with the crowd audibly chanting for his departure in injury time. Then we discuss what's next for the Timbers? Which available coaches might be a good fit? Would Willfriend Nancy work with our roster? Is a Latin coach a requirement? RCTID!

This episode's key talking points include:

• Phil Departs!
• Who are the obvious names for the Timbers coaching search and who are some left field choices? Would Wilfried Nancy work as Timbers coach?
• Is it right or wrong to chant for a coach to be fired?
• Can the Timbers turn it around and make the playoffs?
• Brutal defensive transition problems summed up Phil’s tactical issues perfectly
• Aimless crosses pepper the box and create nothing
• Mixed emotions on the Antony goal
• Body language tells of a broken team spirit
• Phil thoroughly outcoached by Uncle Bruce
• Phil’s last roll of the dice is to play no defensive midfielders
• Antony’s left foot strikes again
• Pipe Mora’s swansong?
• Phil’s last press conference is classic Neville
• Ned: Phil has “fallen well short of expectations”
• It’s perfect timing for a new coach to come in
• Does the team need a Latin coach for cultural reasons?
• Antony’s Social Media Drama
• Timbers DP needs - we need a talented left footer in the final third
• Timers Time World Cup Pod Schedule!

Content Warning: One or two little s words

Timestamps:

(0:00) Introduction

(0:46) Phil Neville is Gone!

(2:31) San Jose (H) - Pre-Game

(5:53) San Jose (H) - First Half Analysis

(17:03) San Jose (H) - Second Half Analysis

(26:23) San Jose (H)  - Post Game - Phil’s Press Conference

(28:06) Phil Neville Departs - Official Statements

(32:25) New Coach Hire Process and Timing

(36:23) Does the team need a Latin coach? Was Phil ever the right cultural fit?

(40:59) Potential Names for the Timbers’ Coaching Search

(50:35) Timbers News, MLS News

(54:18) Timbers Time Podcasts during the World Cup Break

Listener Topics and Questions!

Thanks for listening and please do send us your questions or topics for analysis for the next episode: ⁠⁠⁠timberstimepod@gmail.com or DM us on IG:  timberstimepod

It's Timbers Time! In this week’s episode Chris and Matt discuss Messi undoing the Timbers on a sweaty night in Miami, analyse the possible impact of the under-discussed Private Equity investment in the team and the relative drop-off in roster spend since, catch up on three entertaining T2 games and ask if Phil will survive a home loss to San Jose… RCTID!

This episode's key talking points include:

• Is Phil just running out the starters to save his job rather than using his capable depth players in a three game week?

• Messi’s classic one-two passes take the Timbers apart twice in the first half

• Was Chara really taken off because of an injury or was it cover for a poor performance?

• Velde’s second half was full of highlights but no goals, was he trying too hard?

• Finn’s top tier defending continues to look effortless

• Guerra’s magic scoring beard

• Pants makes a top tier save from Messi’s free kick, is this a save of the year contender?

• Digging into the Private Equity investment in the Timbers in 2021 and the subsequent drop in relative roster investment - correlation or causation?

• Why Private Equity loves American Sports over European leagues and why that should be concerning for Timbers fans

• T2 are on a tear, updates on their last three gams

• Is Mora done as a Timber? Does his departure mean a DP 9 is coming?

• San Jose (H) Preview - Will Phil survive a loss?

  
  

Content Warning: One or two moderate swears

Timestamps:

(0:00) Introduction

(1:33) Miami (A) - Pre-Game

(3:59) Miami (A) - First Half Analysis

(17:33) Miami (A) - Second Half Analysis

(30:14) Miami (A) - Post Game - Moment and Man of the Match

(32:23) Miami (A) - Post Game - Press Conferences - Phil & Finn

(38:16) Analysis - Private Equity Investment in the Timbers

(49:07) T2 Update

(52:38) Timbers News, MLS News

(56:08) San Jose (H) Preview

Listener Topics and Questions!

Thanks for listening and please do send us your questions or topics for analysis for the next episode: ⁠⁠⁠timberstimepod@gmail.com or DM us on IG:  timberstimepod

It's Timbers Time! In this episode Chris, a jet-lagged Matt and special guest Carie talk all things Timbers as the team leave Montreal with an entertaining 2-2 tie. Matt reports on the  atmosphere at the stadium and hanging out with a large Pantemis entourage, there’s more ego chat, and we dive into the newly released 2026 salary data with Matt getting quizzed on a few surprising paychecks .. RCTID!

This episode's key talking points include:

• Is that point enough to save Phil’s job for now?

• Why the lack of squad rotation?

• Matt hangs out with the Pantemis entourage in Montreal!

• Zone 14 defensive problems continue

• Handball disagreements

• DaCosta looking more and more like Nagbe

• The Kelsy hot streak continues!

• Were the Timbers lucky to get an equalizer?

• Should Mora have come in earlier?

• Finn the defensive comfort blanket

• Is a draw good enough?

• Phil says both goals are due to individual errors, who’s to blame?

• Da Costa and Bassett’s offensive rotations

• Salary discrepancies in the locker room

• Who’s salary is the most surprising?

• Does Velde deserve to be an All Star?

• Miami (A) Preview

  
  

Content Warning: Moderate swears

Timestamps:

(0:00) Introduction

(6:45) Montreal (A) - Pre-Game Press Conferences & Injury Report

(12:05) Montreal (A) - Starting XI

(13:59) Montreal (A)- First Half Analysis

(32:33) Montreal (A)- Second Half Analysis

(44:31) Montreal (A) - Post Game - Moment and Man of the Match

(51:02) Montreal (A) - Phil’s Post-Game Press Conference

(55:57) MLS 2026 Salary Review - Higher or Lower?

(1:04:06) Timbers News, MLS News

(1:06:02) Miami (A) Preview

Listener Topics and Questions!
Thanks for listening and please do send us your questions or topics for analysis for the next episode: ⁠⁠⁠timberstimepod@gmail.com

Or DM us on IG:

timberstimepod

It's Timbers Time! In this week’s episode Chris and Matt are in a celebratory mood as the Timbers spank Sporting Kansas City 6-0, with multiple bangers to discuss. After enjoying the win, there’s reflection on what this result means, is it enough to keep Phil in a job? Was it a more dominant win than RSL had over us? We then wrap up with some Pants ceiling chat and a Montreal away preview.

This episode's key talking points include:

• What does this result mean for Phil’s future?

• How does our domination of SKC compare to RSL’s domination of us?

• We look great in possession (when there’s no ball pressure)

• Velde scores a long range banger to spite Matt

• Best songs for the TA to sing when we’re up 4-0

• Is showboating disrespectful to the opposition?

• Phil does something pragmatic! 

• How second half substitutes sprung the team back into life

• Another Timbers MLS hat trick goes begging

• Kelsy’s redemption arc - Are we still going to go for a DP 9?

• How much can you read into individual performances against such poor opposition?

• Why Chris thinks it’s worth paying attention to press conferences

• Can Pantemis improve his distribution and dribbling?

• Chara in a popemobile?

• Montreal (A) Preview

• What squad rotations do we anticipate for midweek?

Content Warning: S Bombs

Timestamps:

(0:00) Introduction

(2:00) SKC (H) - Pre-Game Press Conferences & Injury Report

(7:00) SKC (H) - Starting XI

(8:01) SKC (H) - First Half Analysis

(21:50) SKC (H) - Second Half Analysis

(33:12) SKC (H) - Post Game - Moment and Man of the Match

(42:26) SKC (H) - Phil’s Post-Game Press Conference

(48:39) What Does This Result Mean For Phil’s Future?

(51:30) Comparing Our Domination of SKC With RSL’s Domination Last Week

(57:04) Listener Question - Can Pantemis Realistically Improve his Distribution and Dribbling?

(1:03:11) How Did Chris, As a Brit, End up in Portland?

(1:06:52) Timbers News, MLS News

(1:10:31) Montreal (A) Preview

Listener Topics and Questions!

Thanks for listening and please do send us your questions or topics for analysis for the next episode: ⁠⁠⁠timberstimepod@gmail.com or DM us on IG:  timberstimepod

It's Timbers Time! In this week’s episode Chris and Matt discuss James Pantemis’s heroics in the Timbers 2-0 defeat to Real Salt Lake as he dreams of the MLS record of saves … not a great sign for our defence! We talk about how our press didn’t stand up to the challenge, why Phil took the blame for the first half and we preview a must win game against UnSporting Kansas City where some “complacent” players are on the block. RCTID!

This episode's talking points include:

• Pantemis stands on his head to prevent an embarrassment in Utah

• Do the Timbers need to “have a little dance”?

• How our hopes the press was improved were dashed at its first real test

• The stark difference between the off-ball movement of the two teams

• Velde looked frustrated, is his mindset becoming a problem?

• Is Diego Luna a true USMNT calibre player or did we just make him look good?

• RSL’s first clean sheet of the year, what does that say about our attack?

• Phil takes the blame for the first half, but why that psychological approach?

• Phil says there's some complacency and implies he’s going to make changes - the established and high paid players are on the block, what lineup do we expect for the next game?

• SKC (H) preview

  
  

Content Warning: Light to Moderate swears

Timestamps:

(0:00) Introduction

(1:26) RSL (A) - Pre-Game Press Conferences

(4:25) RSL (A) - Injury Report

(5:11) RSL (A) - Starting XI & Formation Analysis

(6:31) RSL (A) - First Half Analysis

(22:18) RSL (A) - Second Half Analysis

(37:17) RSL (A) - Post Game - Moment and Man of the Match

(46:09) RSL (A) - Thoughts on the high press

(48:47) RSL (A) - Phil’s Post-Game Press Conference

(53:39) RSL (A) - Pantemis's Post-Game Press Conference

(56:18) T2 Update

(57:56) Timbers News, MLS News

(1:00:54) SKC (H) Preview

Listener Topics and Questions!

Thanks for listening and please do send us your questions or topics for analysis for the next episode: ⁠⁠⁠timberstimepod@gmail.com or DM us on IG:  timberstimepod

It's Timbers Time! Matt’s back from Europe and there’s plenty to talk about this week - we discuss the late game chaos as the Timbers come back from San Diego with three points, more Antony counterattacking madness, stupid handball rules, and continued improvements in the press. Plus the Timbers are conceding a goal a game (!) from outside the box or thereabouts… Chris does a deep tactical dive into what's going wrong in Zone 14. RCTID!

This episode's talking points include:

• Was this the right game to drop Antony from the starting XI?

• Why are we conceding from so many long shots? A deep dive analysis! What systemic problems do the Timbers have and who’s to blame?

• Why the press continues to improve, but why it’s too early to believe

• Why our early turnovers weren’t punished

• The penalty law is still stupid

• Should Kelsy’s disallowed goal have stood?

• How many goals should Cole Bassett be good for this year?

• Antony’s left foot strikes again (or doesn’t strike again)

• Chara’s golden years get us in our feels

• The bizarre last three minutes were tactical madness from Phil

• On reflection, how bad was the first half?

• Phil reveals his "Weakness"

• Losing the Whitecaps would be heartbreaking

• RSL (A) preview

  
  

Content Warning: "S" Bombs ahoy

Content Links:

Shot Location and Expected Goals in the Premier League:

https://cartilagefreecaptain.sbnation.com/2013/11/13/5098186/shot-matrix-i-shot-location-and-expected-goals

Soccer “Zones” Map:

https://smarter.soccer/free-downloads/Smarter-Soccer-The-Soccer-Zones.pdf

Where Goals Come From: https://www.americansocceranalysis.com/home/tag/Where+Goals+Come+From

How 442 became 4231:

https://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2008/dec/18/4231-442-tactics-jonathan-wilson

Timestamps:

(0:00) Introduction

(2:24) San Diego (A) - Pre-Game Press Conferences

(7:45) San Diego (A) - Injury Report

(9:04) San Diego (A)- Starting XI & Formation Analysis

(13:08) San Diego (A) - First Half Analysis

(25:24) San Diego (A) - Second Half Analysis

(49:54) San Diego (A) - Post Game - Moment and Man of the Match

(59:09) San Diego (A) - Phil’s Post-Game Press Conference

(1:03:59) Zone 14 of Interest - Why Are The Timbers Conceding So Many Long Shots?

(1:25:52) Timbers News, MLS News

(1:31:01) RSL (A) Preview

Listener Topics and Questions!

Thanks for listening and please do send us your questions or topics for analysis for the next episode:

Email: ⁠⁠⁠timberstimepod@gmail.com

IG:  timberstimepod

It's Timbers Time! This week, with Matt adventuring in Europe, Chris sails solo with a quick hitting pod going over the error-strewn loss in Minnesota, as the Timbers go for broke and leave empty handed, if points do in fact manifest in the hand metaphorically. There's at least hope in one young player’s development and intrigue in asking what it would take to get us to buy into Phil-osophy?…. RCTID!

This episode's talking points include:

• An intelligent and tactically nuanced press conference (not by Phil Neville)

• Relief at Juan Mosquera’s injury news

• Big problems in defensive transition remain

• How five consecutive errors led to the opening Minnesota goal

• The shocking percentage of goals the Timbers have conceded from outside the box

• How Antony’s unwillingness to use his left foot is creating so many problems

• Seeing the long diagonal ball in transition as a recent pattern for opposition goals

• How despite extremely aggressive and risky defensive positioning in the second half the team create barely a chance against a set defence

• Finn’s on ball development is a bright spark in a struggling team

• What would it take for us to buy into Phil-osophy?

• Velde’s acting woes

• T2 update

• San Diego (A) preview

Timestamps:

(0:00) Introduction

(1:16) Minnesota (A) - Pre-Game Press Conferences

(3:29) Minnesota (A) - Starting XI & Formation Analysis

(5:01) Minnesota (A) - First Half Analysis

(11:29) Minnesota (A) - Second Half Analysis

(15:33) Minnesota (A) - Post Game - Moment and Man of the Match

(16:45) Minnesota (A) - Phil’s Post-Game Press Conference

(17:57) Listener Question - What would it take for us to buy into Phil-sophy?

(21:37) Timbers News, T2 Update, MLS News

(23:14) San Diego (A) Preview

Listener Topics and Questions!

Thanks for listening and please do send us your questions or topics for analysis for the next episode: ⁠⁠⁠timberstimepod@gmail.com or DM us on IG:  timberstimepod

It's Timbers Time! This week Chris and Matt discuss a big win as the Timbers snatch a goal at the death to take three points from Western Conference leaders LAFC. We are impressed with our new midfield duo, discuss how much confidence can be taken from this victory with the opposition rotating heavily due to CCL, and ask whether Phil’s tactics (or lack thereof) leave us at the vicissitudes of fortune, or just the varying soccer IQ of the players on the pitch… RCTID!

This episode's talking points include:

• LAFC’s surprising lineup and tactics

• Comparing Caicedo to previous Timbers defensive midfielders

• How more technical players in the lineup helped us play out of the back, negate the press and ultimately create the opening goal

• LAFC exploiting the same direct ball weakness we saw against Vancouver

• Velde continues his”bully ball” and prime sh*thousery to entertaining effect

• Mora’s “secretive” performance

• Fory gets mad at his early sub, does the team have a tantrum problem?

• Did LAFC risk playing this game with rookies because the Shield doesn’t matter?

• The drama of the last minute VAR call and late late winner

• The “vicissitudes of fortune” and what to make of Phil’s late game tactics

• How deserved was this victory?

• Did Velde’s more central positioning in this game marginalize Da Costa’s influence?

• Phil expected Caicedo to go to a bigger club!

• The irony of Phil’s post game comments of “not thinking everything’s against you”

• The Apple TV Commentator’s subtle critique of the coaching

• Ned gives Phil 14 games to prove himself and again talks about a third DP

• The 107ist IG post doesn’t go down well with the fans

• Is Neymar moving to… OHIO?

• Minnesota (A) preview

Content Warning: Filthier mouthed than than usual, some f bombs

Timestamps:

(0:00) Introduction

(1:55) LAFC (H) - Phil’s Pre-Game Press Conference

(3:04) LAFC (H) - Starting XI & Formation Analysis

(7:23) LAFC (H) - First Half Analysis

(24:17) LAFC (H) - Second Half Analysis

(49:32) LAFC (H) - Post Game - Moment and Man of the Match

(56:06) LAFC (H) -  Phil’s Post Game Press Conference

(59:52) Is the Team’s “Fabric” a Problem?

(1:01:59) Ned Speaks to the Press - Gives Phil 14 Games To Prove Himself

(1:04:40) Ned Speaks to the Press - A Potential 3 DP Roster - Are We Going for a DP Striker?

(1:05:38) Timbers News - 107IST Instagram Post Goes Down Like a Lead Balloon

(1:10:43) MLS News - Is Nemar going to…OHIO?

(1:12:09) Minnesota (A) Preview

Listener Topics and Questions!

Thanks for listening and please do send us your questions or topics for analysis for the next episode: ⁠⁠⁠timberstimepod@gmail.com or DM us on IG:  timberstimepod

It's Timbers Time! This week Chris and Matt do a deep dive into the frantic, rollercoaster of a game north of the border where the Timbers crashed to a late 3-2 defeat. There is a LOT to talk about in this game from goal of the season contenders to calamitous errors and bizarre tactical decisions and we really get into it! Then we talk about our desire for team accountability as passionate fans and the role of the media, getting into some ethical questions… Socrates would be proud. The philosopher, not the magnificently hirsute Brazilian international from the 80s, though maybe he’d give it a listen too. Plus Phil kindly confirms our abductive reasoning about his trend chasing coaching from last episode and Chris’s eagle eye spots something amusing in Phil’s home interior decor… RCTID!

This episode's talking points include:

• Phil eschews tactical pragmatism and keeps a high line

• Caicedo’s assured debut

• Breaking down the calamitous first goal - who’s to blame?

• Timbers counter attack vs high press systems risk/reward

• Mosquera’s Zidane impression - Goal of the Season already?

• How did Laborda not get sent off?

• Chara breaks the MLS yellow card record and why he isn’t a “dirty” player

• Is the handball penalty just bad luck? Are handball rules fair?

• Where are the defensive substitutions?

• Phil’s continuing failures in situational coaching

• Do some good individual performances offer hope for the future?

• The meaning and ethics of “grilling” a coach

• The importance of the independent press as a conduit for fan accountability

• The dangers of the rise of “In-House” journalism

• Phil blames the ref and tries to create a “siege mentality” in the locker room

• Phil confirms our fears about his trend-chasing management style

• Phil’s amusing interior decor 

• LAFC (H) Preview

  
  

Content Warning: Moderate swears, a single F bomb from Matt, the potty mouth

Timestamps:

(0:00) Introduction

(2:00) Vancouver (A) - Starting XI & Formation Analysis

(5:00)  Vancouver (A)  - First Half Analysis

(31:59)   Vancouver (A)  - Second Half Analysis

(56:48)  Vancouver (A)  - Post Game - Moment and Man of the Match

(1:00:04) The Jaguars Incident and Press Conference Journalistic Ethics 

(1:08:11) Listener Question - What Qualifies as a Coach Getting “Grilled”?

(1:11:45) The Timbers Media Landscape and the Importance of an Independent Press

(1:23:13) Listener Question - Do Press Risk Access if they “Grill” or Speak Honestly”?

(1:25:22) Vancouver (A)  - Phil’s Press Conference Psychology and Siege Mentality

(1:29:31) Tactics Follow Up - Phil Confirms Our Suspicions of Trend Chasing

(1:34:34) Timbers News! MLS News!

(1:37:17) LAFC (H) Preview

Content Links:

When empathy replaces inquiry: Why ethics still matter in sports journalism

https://www.quillmag.com/2026/01/14/when-empathy-replaces-inquiry-why-ethics-still-matter-in-sports-journalism/

Sports Newsrooms Versus In-House Media: Cheerleading and Critical Reporting in News and Match Coverage

https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/21674795211043105

“Part of the Team”: In-House Sports Reporters Navigating the Journalistic Periphery

Fans suffer as football clubs show journalists the red card

https://www.theguardian.com/media/2015/jul/26/football-clubs-ban-journalists-newcastle-united

Soccer reporter banned for doing journalism

https://nwu.org/soccer-reporter-banned-for-doing-journalism/

Phil Neville on Unfiltered Soccer with Landon Donovan & Tim Howard

https://youtu.be/XX3I9ZLoFoE

Listener Topics and Questions!

Thanks for listening and please do send us your questions or topics for analysis for the next episode:

Email Us : ⁠⁠⁠timberstimepod@gmail.com

DM us on IG:  timberstimepod

It's Timbers Time! This week Chris and Matt break down the eventful 1-1 tie with the LA Galaxy discussing the bright start, early red card, and tactical adjustments, one of which Phil pretended never happened…. Plus a deep dive on Phil’s coaching ability, assessing his performance (or lack thereof) in eight different categories from motivational ability to tactical identity and situational coaching

This episode's talking points include:

• How sustainable was our fast and exciting start for future games?

• Breaking down Kamal’s red card and was taking Kelsy off a bad decision?

• Phil’s positional shift that cost us the goal, that he later pretends he didn’t do!

• How a deep 4 back bunker then secured a point quite comfortably

• Velde’s wild and shady bilingual press conference tells a lot of blunt truths

• Coaching Special - Is Phil a Good Coach? 

• Do the Team Look Fit, Organized and Motivated?

• Does Phil Have a Clear Tactical Identity or is he Chasing Tactical Trends?

• Quantifying differences between MLS and the EPL that should influence tactical identity

• Is a lack of tactical structure one of Phil’s biggest coaching failures?

• How evident the Timbers’ poor offensive rotations are compared to other teams

• An alarming statistic about the team’s defense

• How the team’s poor secondary press is leading to counter attacks

• Is the reward of the high press worth the risk?

• Vancouver (A) Preview

  
  

Content Warning: Moderate swears

Timestamps:

(0:00) Introduction

(2:07) LA Galaxy (H)  - Starting XI & Formation Analysis

(4:48) LA Galaxy (H)  - First Half Analysis

(22:13) LA Galaxy (H)  - Second Half Analysis

(28:24) LA Galaxy (H) - Post Game - Moment and Man of the Match

(31:07) LA Galaxy (H) - Phil’s Press Conference

(33:10) LA Galaxy (H) - Velde’’s Press Conference 

(36:22) Phil Neville and a Coaching Special - Introduction

(39:09) Assessing Phil Neville - Performance vs Roster Spend and Player Assessment

(42:53) Assessing Phil Neville - Is the Team Motivated, Fit, Focused and Playing Hard?

(46:09) Assessing Phil Neville - Offensive and Defensive Set Pieces

(49:29) Assessing Phil Neville - Substitution Patterns, Situational Coaching and Tactical Flexibility 

(55:28) Assessing Phil Neville - Tactical Identity, Meta Tactics and Following Trends

(59:48) Assessing Phil Neville - Quantifying Why MLS Needs Different Tactics to the EPL

(1:02:49) Assessing Phil Neville - Structural vs Organic Styles of Play and Soccer IQ

(1:05:59) Assessing Phil Neville - Are the Timbers a Well Organized and Well Drilled Team?

(1:07:26) Assessing Phil Neville - How Wing Turnovers are Emblematic of Poor Offensive Coaching

(1:11:17) Assessing Phil Neville - The Team’s Long Term xG Conceded is Alarming

(1:13:59) Assessing Phil Neville - The Ideal Press Vs The Timbers’ Press

(1:20:12) Assessing Phil Neville - The Mess That Is The Secondary Press

(1:22:23) Assessing Phil Neville - Is The Press Worth The Risk? Is it Working?

(1:25:25) Assessing Phil Neville - Conclusion - Is Phil A Good Coach?

(1:28:26) Call for Listener Topic Suggestions!

(1:28:50) Timbers News! New Signings! MLS News

(1:33:18) Vancouver (A) Preview

Content Links:

Timbers pressing data from 2025: https://soccerment.com/mls-2025-data-driven-insights-from-the-first-5-rounds/

The physical demands of Major League Soccer (including EPL comparison) : https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12551844/

Velde for Olympiacos vs PAOK including positional rotations to support a winger in posession:

https://youtu.be/tHxl-JNxM6Y

What a highly structured and organized press looks like in MLS:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vAOawmYLOIY

Listener Topics and Questions:

Thanks for listening and please do send us your questions or topics for analysis for the next episode :⁠⁠⁠timberstimepod@gmail.com

It's Timbers Time! In this episode we analyse the heartbreaking injury time loss to Houston. Lots to talk about tactically in this one from formation and positional changes, Velde finally scoring in regular season play despite a penalty miss, and more issues with the press. Plus an Academy special! We break down the production of the Timbers youth team system since they joined MLS, how do they match up to other teams that joined MLS around the same time? How about other franchises with limited catchment areas? We get stuck into the data with surprising results and wrap up with an LA Galaxy preview.

This episode's talking points include:

- Finding the positives in a third defeat in a row

- What went wrong for the Houston winner?

- Should  DaCosta play the 8 more regularly?

- How suited is Guerra to playing as a solo striker?

- Is Pantemis’ lack of confidence becoming a problem? Do we need to think about a replacement GK?

- Velde misses a pen but finally scores in the regular season! Will this be the confidence boost he needs to start a run of good form?

- Pressure on Phil after 3 straight losses, are his press conference excuses valid?

- Does dominating possession mean you controlled the game?

- Academy Special! We do a deep dive into the Timbers academy production since the club joined MLS in 2011 

- What are the TImbers worse at than lowly Chivas USA?

- What CBA / Roster Rules limit Eric Izoita’s appearances for the Timbers?

- How much of a problem is Jimer Fory’s disciplinary record?

- Galaxy (H) Preview

Content Warning: Moderate swears

Timestamps:

(0:00) Introduction

(1:23) Houston (A) - Starting XI & Formation Analysis

(2:59) Houston (A) - First Half Analysis

(13:56) Houston (A) - Second Half Analysis

(31:40) Houston (A) -Post Game - Moment and Man of the Match

(33:20) Houston (A) - Post Game - Should DaCosta Play the 8 More Regularly?

(35:45) Houston (A) - Post Game - Gage Guerra as a Solo Striker

(38:20) Houston (A) - Post Game - Form and Confidence Worries for Pantemis 

(40:50) Houston (A) - Post Game - Final Thoughts and a few Positives

(41:54) Houston (A) - Phil’s Press Conferences - 

(48:35) Academy Special!

(59:27) Roster Rules / CBA  and Eric Izoita

(1:03:01) Listener Question - Is Jimer Fory’s Timbers Future in Question due to his Disciplinary Record?

(1:05:12) Timbers News! New Signings! MLS News!

(1:10:34) Galaxy (H) Preview

Thanks for listening and please do send us your questions for the next episode:⁠⁠⁠timberstimepod@gmail.com

It's Timbers Time! In this episode we break down the 4-1 defeat to Vancouver, talk about new faces including young academy star Eric Izoita and new signings Caicedo and Aravena. We focus mostly though on our GM Special - what makes a good GM and does Ned earn that accolade? We continue our dive into the Timbers roster spend history assessing the team’s history of DP signings and all of Ned’s pickups since he took over as GM in 2022.

This episode's talking points include:

- Izoita’s Dream Debut!

- A New DMid! We assess the signing of Caicedo

- GM Special! What makes a good GM?

- The Mess and the Press vs Vancouver

- Dissecting Phil’s Post Game Press Conference

- Rating the Timbers DP signings since 2011

- Ned’s signings as GM

- Hit, Miss or Maybe?

- Criticizing Ned’s Strategic Approach

- T2 Scouting Report!

- Houston (A) Preview

Content Warning: Moderate swears. Gold stars to us for not “effing and blinding” at this terrible performance, frankly.

Timestamps:

(0:00) Introduction

(1:43) Vancouver (H) - Starting XI & Formation Analysis

(4:27) Vancouver (H) - Tifo Shoutout

(5:09) Vancouver (H) - First Half Analysis

(14:25) Vancouver (H) - Second Half Analysis

(25:23) Vancouver (H) - Moment and Man of the Match

(27:06) Vancouver (H) - Phil’s Press Conference

(30:40) Listener Question! Kelsy vs Guerra

(35:11) GM Special! What makes a good GM?

(38:45) GM Special! Timbers All Time DP Signings

(56:43) GM Special! Ned’s Signings - Hit or Miss?

(1:01:06) Criticizing Ned’s Strategic Approach

(1:08:15) T2 Scouting Report!

(1:11:19) Timbers News! New Signings! MLS News!

(1:17:48) Houston (A) Preview

Thanks for listening and please do send us your questions for the next episode: ⁠⁠⁠timberstimepod@gmail.com

In this episode we break down the 2-0 defeat to Colorado, there's a lot to learn from this one! We also dissect a decade of Timbers transfer spending data, tackle this week's news and look forward to the upcoming Cascadia Cup game against the Vancouver Whitecaps.

This episode's talking points include:

- What happened to the press?

- Pantemis vs Steffen goalkeeping performances

- How Colorado exploited the Timbers' man marking system

- Analysis of Set Piece defending breakdowns

- Was Fory's red justified?

- How much do we miss having a true number 10?

- The Timbers net transfer spend since the MLS Cup Season has some big surprises

- Does our transfer spend history explain our pivot to younger DPs?

- Expectations for Vancouver at home next week

Content Warning: Moderate swears

Timestamps:

(0:00) Introduction

(1:15) Colorado (A) - Formation Analysis

(3:51) Colorado (A) - First Half Analysis

(18:43) Colorado (A) - Second Half Analysis

(37:07) Colorado (A) - Timbers' Man of the Match

(40:53) Colorado (A) - Tactics Takeaways

(44:25) Front Office Special! A Decade of Net Transfer Spend

(57:02) Timbers News!

(1:01:14) Vancouver at Home Preview

Thanks for listening and please do send us your questions for the next episode!

⁠⁠timberstimepod@gmail.com

In our second episode we breakdown the big win in the home opener, do a deep dive on a decade of front office spending levels, and talk fan fest DP number 9 speculation! 

Thanks to everyone who tuned into our first episode season preview, we were blown away by the number of listeners! Truly appreciated.

Content Warning: A couple of S bombs

Timestamps:

(0:00) Introduction

(2:49) Timbers vs Crew - Formation Analysis

(4:50) Timbers vs Crew - First Half Analysis

(18:58) Timbers vs Crew - Second Half Analysis

(25:01) Timbers vs Crew - Moment and Man of the Match

(27:45) Timbers vs Crew - Notable Player Performances

(33:39) Timbers vs Crew - Tactics Breakdown

(37:10) Fan Fest! What we Learned

(52:51) Front Office Special! Ownership and Investment Breakdown

(1:07:20) Colorado (A) Preview

New mics are hooked up; audio should be much better outside of us still waiting for our pop filters, causing the odd plosive issue. 

Thanks for listening and please do send us your questions for the next episode:

⁠timberstimepod@gmail.com

This first ever episode of Timbers Time focuses primarily on analysing the team’s roster strengths and weaknesses, along with a discussion of expected formations and tactical variations… and will we win on opening day?

Content Warning: Occasional moderate swears

(0:47) Introductions - Who we are and what the podcast is all about

(4:46) Why and how we support the Timbers

(7:13) Soccer content begins! Formation Analysis

(11:20) Roster Analysis - Goalkeepers

(15:45) Roster Analysis - Defenders

(31:48) Roster Analysis - Defensive Midfielders

(43:30) Roster Analysis - Attacking Midfielders

(59:15) Roster Analysis - Strikers

(1:06:47) Strengths and Weaknesses of the Roster as a whole

(1:12:11) Expectations for the Season

(1:16:52) Opening Day

A few minor teething problems for our first episode, middling audio and one or two little glitches, which will be fixed for episode two after the Columbus Game this weekend! Thanks for bearing with us as we find our feet in the podcast world.

Thanks for listening and please do send us your questions for the next episode:

timberstimepod@gmail.com