PORTLAND, Ore. -- On a rainy Thursday at Providence Park, the Portland Timbers' home venue has all the trappings of base camp on Mount Everest. Shelters have been constructed. Sleeping bags and blankets are everywhere. Propane canisters and space heaters provide little additional warmth against the December chill. Adult beverages are expected to pick up the slack as the day -- and night -- goes on.
Some fans have been camped out since Monday, albeit in shifts. Why? To acquire one of 1,000 precious wristbands that will allow those with general admission tickets in the 3,600-seat north end to stake out their preferred vantage point for Saturday's MLS Cup between the Timbers and New York City FC (3 p.