Portland's Season Ends On 3-1 Decision Day Loss

Portland Timbers defender Bill Tuiloma (25) defends against Real Salt Lake forward Rubio Rubin (14) during the first half of an MLS soccer match Sunday, Oct. 9, 2022, in Sandy, Utah. (AP Photo/Rick Bowmer)

Portland’s 2022 season came to an end on Decision Day in Sandy, Utah on Sunday. Needing a win or a draw to advance to the Playoffs, the Timbers fell to Real Salt Lake 3-1.

It was a day to forget for the Timbers. RSL out-shot Portland 16 to 9 and had prime opportunities throughout the entire match. They converted those opportunities in the 19th, 48th, and 82nd minutes. Already down 3-0, Dairon Asprilla found the back of the net in the 87th minute.

Real Salt Lake has clinched a Playoff berth with this victory. After closing its season with two straight losses and off-the-field turmoil, the Timbers now turn to the offseason. This is the first time that Portland has failed to make the postseason since 2017. It will also be the first year since 2015 that Seattle or Portland won’t represent the Western Conference in the MLS Cup.