Seattle Sounders Vs. Portland Timbers: 3 Takeaways from 3-1 Win
By Paul Taylor
3) Fanendo Adi
From a moral perspective, it’s tough to argue with Caleb Porter’s late decision to scratch Adi from the lineup. Even though the Timbers’ coach wouldn’t explain why, speculation indicates the forward missed the team flight to Seattle.
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Further, this is not the first time Adi has made headlines off the field. Back in June, Goal.com reported he wanted to play for a more competitive team, to improve his stock with the Nigerian national team and became frustrated when Portland would not trade him.
Regardless of all this, Porter was made to regret his decision, as the Timbers created almost as many chances as their hosts (16-17), but failed to convert them. Ironically, the biggest miss came from Adi’s replacement, Jack McInerney, who had a point-blank opportunity to equalize in the 67th minute.
Porter’s nightmare was made even worse when Adi came on as a substitute and went on to score his team-leading 12th goal of the season. Again, no one blames the Timbers coach for taking a stand and making a point that no one is bigger than the club, but it arguably cost them the chance to leave Seattle with at least a tie.
Next: World Cup qualifiers could impact Sounders' playoff hopes
What did you take away from the Sounders win on Sunday? Further, how confident are you that they will clinch a playoff spot at the end of the season? Let us know in the comments section below.