The San Jose Earthquakes earned an important 2-1 win over the Portland Timbers on Saturday, lifting them from eighth place into a tie for sixth. Let’s examine how forward Danny Hoesen’s game-winning goal was scored just after halftime.
1. Perfect tackle: Following a chipped pass by Timbers playmaker Diego Valeri, Quakes defender Victor Bernardez perfectly times his slide tackle to regain possession.
2. Composure: Rather than rushing a long ball over the top, Bernardez hustles up field, forcing the Portland Timbers midfield to collapse on him.