Timbers earn 2-0 win
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Sal Zizzo and Brian Umony scored first-half goals to lead the Portland Timbers to a 2-0 win over Club Atletico Independiente of Argentina in a friendly Tuesday night.
The win was Portland's first on its home field in nine games, a stretch that includes five Major League Soccer and four exhibition matches. The last time the Timbers won at Jeld-Wen Field was May 21 against Columbus.
The Timbers (6-10-3 MLS) are 1-3 in exhibition matches this season.
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Independiente, of the Argentine Primera Division, has won 16 international championships during its existence and is considered one of the world's most successful club teams.
Coming off a 1-0 loss at Columbus last Saturday, most of the Timbers' starters rested against the Argentina opponent.
Nonetheless, Portland dominated the first half, as the Timbers produced a number of quality scoring opportunities, two that led to goals.
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Portland took a 1-0 lead during the 36th minute when Zizzo streaked down the right side of the field and kicked a 15-yard shot past Independiente goalie Hilario Navarro.
Three minutes later, the Timbers struck with a beautiful goal off a set play 35 yards from the goal. Mike Chabala crossed the ball just inside the top of the penalty box, where Umony sent a header over Navarro and into the goal for a 2-0 Portland lead.
Independiente threatened to score a couple of times during the second half. CAI's best chance came during the 85th minute on a set play just outside the penalty box, but Julian Velaquez's kick was turned away by Portland's defensive wall.
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Missing from the Timbers was midfielder Jack Jewsbury, who will participate Wednesday night for the Major League Soccer All-Star team against Manchester United in New Jersey.
Portland resumes MLS play Saturday with a home match against Toronto FC.