After Sunday's win over Toronto FC, it may be safe to say the drop-off between the Portland Timbers' first- and second-choice goalkeepers isn't all that much.
With four big-time saves in the second half alone of the Timbers' 2-1 win over TFC, goalkeeper Jake Gleeson may have given starters around the league league a run for their money. Gleeson has been filling in for starter Adam Kwarasey, who tore a ligament in his hand against the San Jose Earthquakes on April 16.
On Sunday, Gleeson put in a impressive performance, making four crucial saves to deny Toronto FC's potent attack and keep the Timbers in the match:
Coach Caleb Porter offered a cool reaction to his backup's performance, telling reporters: "It’s his job to do that. Like I told him, even though those are very good saves, that should be routine."
Fair enough. But Sunday's display begs the question just the same...
