SEATTLE -- The game between the US and Ghana won’t be the only rematch in the near future. In a duel that promises to draw great interest in the Pacific Northwest, Portland Timbers and Seattle Sounders FC are set to renew their long-standing rivalry in the third round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup.
The June 30 game will be a rematch of last year’s clash at the same stage of the tournament, one in which Seattle emerged from PGE Park with a 2-1 victory over the Timbers. Seattle then went on to capture the Open Cup after victories over Kansas City, Houston and D.C. United.
The defending champions, as well as seven other MLS teams, enter Open Cup play at the third round stage.
The rivalry between Seattle and Portland dates back to 1975, when both cities had teams in the North American Soccer League. The rivalry was renewed in the USL First Division, where the two sides battled for eight seasons (2001-08).
In 2011, the rivalry will continue as the Timbers are set to become one of two MLS expansion clubs.
A crowd of 16,382 filled Portland’s home turf last year, providing a raucous atmosphere for the midweek game. A similar crowd should be on hand June 30. Kickoff is set for 7:30 pm PT and the match will be televised locally by FSN.
Portland, a member of U.S. Soccer Division 2, advanced to the third round of the cup competition by beating the Kitsap Pumas of the PDL 4-1 in Bremerton on Tuesday night. Forward Bright Dike recorded a hat trick and former LA Galaxy goalkeeper Steve Cronin recorded three saves for the Timbers.
The Sounders FC-Portland winner will advance to the quarterfinal round to meet the winner between the LA Galaxy and St. Louis on either July 6 (if St. Louis win) or July 7 (if LA Galaxy win).
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