New York City FC are preparing for their home opener against Portland Timbers this weekend at Yankee Stadium.
For this edition of 'The Away End' presented by Berkeley College & Rennert International, we spoke to Jeremy Peterman, writer for Cascadia FC.
Hi Jeremy, thanks for speaking with us. What are your thoughts on the team’s start to the season?
Phil Neville has done a ton of talking since he got hired, and all he wanted to do was play some games. Through two games the Timbers have four points and sit on top of the Western Conference.
They have accomplished this without getting a single minute from any Designated Player on the roster. So it's been a very good start results-wise for Portland.
However, both of those games were in Portland, and 7 of their next 9 matches are away from home. We kind of know what this team is, but we will learn a lot more in the coming months.
What are your hopes for the 2024 season?
Since that fateful December afternoon in 2021, the Timbers haven't played in a postseason game. I think that playoff qualification is the bare minimum expectation. I also expect the Timbers to make a decent run in Leagues Cup.
And the Timbers are still working on filling their last DP slot. GM Ned Grabavoy and Neville have stressed finding the "right" DP, so I'm willing to be patient while they search. I do believe that this is a playoff-quality roster so any failure to qualify would be a massive underachievement.
What do you think will be the deciding factor in Saturday's game?
Two players come to mind: Evander and Maxime Crepeau. Evander hasn't made his season debut yet, but all signs are pointing to his first involvement coming in Yankee Stadium. Crepeau made his debut against D.C. United last week and is instantly the best goalkeeper the Timbers have had in at least 5 years. His presence is crucial to the team leaving Yankee Stadium with all 3 points.
And for anyone that may be in Portland for a game are there any spots you would suggest they check out?
Last time I suggested Maya's Taqueria, so I'll offer a different restaurant this time (Maya's is still very good and always worth a visit). Von Ebert has a great selection of beer and food, plus it's within walking distance of Providence Park.
