Portland Timbers 0, FC Dallas 0 | 2018 MLS Match Recap

In a game with Audi 2018 MLS Cup Playoffs implications throughout the Western Conference, the Portland Timbers and FC Dallas managed just a 0-0 draw on Saturday at Providence Park.

Dallas, atop the West, left the door open for Sporting KC to pass them in the table with a win on Sunday, while the Timbers, in fifth place entering the game, allow Real Salt Lake and the LA Galaxy hope Portland can be passed in the final month of the 2018 MLS regular season.

At the same time, Dallas did officially book their ticket to the playoffs, so the result ended up being consequential for them.

While both teams had shots on the night, the quality chances, notably shots on target, were low in number, with just four combined on the night. Perhaps the best chance of the night came late in the first half, as Carlos Gruezo's strike rattled the woodwork but bounced away.

Tempers flared late in the game, as Timbers defender Liam Ridgewell was sent off for a foul on a contested header in second-half stoppage time.

Goals

• None

Three Things 

THE BIG PICTURE: Both teams will be disappointed with the draw, although a point isn't a terrible haul. What's perhaps more concerning is how much both teams' attacks struggled, and one figures a score draw would have been more welcomed.

MOMENT OF THE MATCH
:
Lucas Melano
had a late shot, but his flicked chance went right at the hands of Dallas goalkeeper
Jesse Gonzalez
.

MAN OF THE MATCH: Dallas defender Reggie Cannon helped stymie the Timbers' attack on the road, and he was active in pushing up when he had the opportunity.

Next Up

• POR: Saturday, October 6 at Real Salt Lake (9:30 pm ET | Full TV & streaming info)
• DAL: Saturday, October 6 vs. Orlando City SC (8 pm ET | Full TV & streaming info)