Timbers battle Houston Dynamo to a 0-0 draw on the road

Portland Timbers goalkeeper Aljaz Ivacic, bottom, dives onto a shot on goal between, from left to right, defender Timbers’ Claudio Bravo (5), Houston Dynamo forward Sebastian Ferreira (9) and Timbers defender Larrys Mabiala during the first half of an MLS soccer match Saturday, April 16, 2022, in Houston. (AP Photo/Michael Wyke)

The Portland Timbers withstood a charge from Houston Dynamo, then played up a man for 15 minutes plus added time, but ultimately settled for a scoreless 0-0 draw in Texas on Saturday afternoon.

Timbers goalkeeper Aljaz Ivacic made a trio of big saves in the first half, including a one-on-one stop on Dynamo attacker Fafa Picault.

Well done Jazzy. 🧤🧤🧤 #RCTID pic.twitter.com/WSYuzOxbdo

— Portland Timbers (@TimbersFC) April 16, 2022

In the second half, Ivacic again denied Picault, whose header off a set piece in the 64th minute seemed destined for the bottom right corner, but Portland’s netminder sprawled to parry it off the post.

What. A. Save. #RCTID pic.twitter.com/2HCnwapnYw

— Portland Timbers (@TimbersFC) April 16, 2022

Ivacic finished the afternoon with four saves. Former Timber Steve Clark made two saves for the Dynamo.

The two sides remained scoreless through the first half and into the second half.

The host Dynamo went down a man when center back Teenage Hadebe was issued a second caution in the 76th minute. Portland played up a man the rest of the match.

The Timbers were not able to capitalize with the man advantage through ninety minutes, and six minutes of stoppage time were added. Eryk Williamson appeared off the bench and delivered a dangerous shot that was blocked and out for a corner kick. Moments later, Yimmi Chara and Marvin Loria combined for a Chara shot that went wide just prior to the final whistle.

Timbers defensive midfielder Diego Chara became MLS’ all-time leader in fouls committed early in the first half, committing a foul in the 12th minute. Chara passes Kyle Beckerman for career honors in the category.

Surprised?…..Not really.

Congrats!! 🥳🥳 @DiegoChara21. #RCTID pic.twitter.com/jgEyVM0KAR

— Portland Timbers (@TimbersFC) April 16, 2022

The Timbers (2-2-4, 10 pts) return home to host Real Salt Lake at Providence Park next Saturday, April 23rd. Pregame starts at 6 p.m. ahead of kickoff just past 7 p.m. on 750 The Game.