This Week in PTFC | Timbers in big match Wednesday against RSL, Thorns playoff schedule set

Timbers look to lock up playoff spot

The Portland Timbers return to play this Wednesday when they travel to face Real Salt Lake at Rio Tinto Stadium (7:30pm PT, ESPN2). While qualification scenarios for that game have not yet been set, Portland could earn a spot in the Audi 2021 MLS Cup Playoffs as early as Tuesday IF LAFC lose or tie Vancouver Whitecaps FC in their match on Tuesday.

The Timbers currently sit in fourth place in the Western Conference on 49 points but only four points separate them from eighth place Salt Lake, who will be looking to jump above the playoff line on in Wednesday's tilt.

And that's just Portland's first game of the week. On Sunday, Nov. 7 – MLS Decision Day – the Timbers will close out the 2021 regular season at home when they host Austin FC (3pm PT, TICKETS, FOX 12 PLUS).

Thorns announce new GM: Karina LeBlanc

Thorns FC started off the week with a big announcement in naming former goalkeeper Karina LeBlanc as the team's new general manager. LeBlanc was the Thorns starter in net for their 2013 NWSL inaugural season and helped lead the team to their first NWSL Championship. Most recently, she has been the Head of Women’s Football for Concacaf, overseeing the efforts of 41 confederations across North America, Central America and the Caribbean Islands to strengthen and grow the women’s game.

Learn more about her journey from growing up in Dominica, playing through various professional women's soccer leagues, her excitement of returning to the Rose City and aspirations for the job ahead in this in-depth podcast with ThornsFC.com writer Richard Farley.

NWSL Playoff bracket is set

The Thorns closed out their own regular-season campaign on Saturday in a 0-0 draw with the North Carolina Courage. Portland set a new NWSL single-season record for shutouts (13) with the result and the team now has a bye into the semifinals of the NWSL Playoffs to take place on Nov. 14 (2:30pm PT, CBS Sports Network). The Thorns host the winner of the Nov. 7 quarterfinal match between the Chicago Red Stars and NJ/NY Gotham FC (12pm PT, CBS Sports Network).

ICYMI

In case you missed it – and really, how could you? – Dairon Asprilla scored his 10th goal of the season last week in an absolutely jaw-dropping fashion. You've probably seen it. But check out the reaction of the Timbers broadcast team of Jake Zivin, Liam Ridgewell and Ross Smith as they make the call on this memorable strike.

PTFC Birthdays

Wish a happy birthday to these PTFC players this week:

• Nov. 5 - Thorns defender Madison Pogarch