The heated rivalry between the Portland Timbers and Seattle Sounders has lasted 39 years, and another entry into the series takes place on Apr. 5 (12 p.m. NBCSN). We took a look at some of the best moments in the history of these two squads going head-to-head on our Timbers FC Instagram this week with our #CascadiaFlashback feature. Check out the moments highlighted as you prepare for Saturday's match.
July 26, 1975
Portland and Seattle squared off for just the second time ever in the summer of 1975. The Timbers used the opportunity to score two goals at the feet of striker Peter Withe, with the Timbers taking home a 2-0 victory in front of the home crowd. The win was the first ever for Portland against Seattle. A little less than a month later the Timbers would beat the Sounders again to knock them out of the NASL playoffs.
No April Fools
In September of 2010 the Timbers decided to make the announcement of their move to the MLS to some local, northwest fans. Luckily for residents of the Emerald City, the announcement hit close to home. They got an up close and personal reminder as the team put a billboard promoting the team in downtown Seattle, in plain view of Safeco Field and what was then Qwest Field.
The right shade of green
Players have often played for both sides of the rivalry over the course of their careers. Eventually, many of them end up in the right shade of ponderosa green. Adding fuel to the fire for fans, players swapping sides galvanizes lore for the Cascadia Cup. (From left to right) John Bain, Andrew Gregor and Steve Zakuani are just a handful of the players who have suited up for both sides.
Bring the Cascadia Cup home
Part of Portland's goal every season is to get the better of their Northwest rivals in the Seattle Sounders and Vancouver Whitecaps. The contest pits the three teams against each other for rights to claim the Cascadia Cup as their own. The Timbers last took home the hardware in 2012 and are looking to kick things off right with three points against the Sounders on Saturday.
Will Johnson is a penalty kick ninja
Portland and Seattle last met in November 2013, and it was the Timbers that came away victorious, knocking the Sounders out of the playoffs with a 3-2 win. Just 29 minutes into the first half, midfielder Will Johnson struck home home a penalty kick that put the Timbers up 1-0, and strikes from Diego Valeri and Futty Danso helped seal the win for Portland.
