Two goals late in the first half spurred the Portland Timbers 2 to a 3-1 win on Sunday over the Austin Aztex in a United Soccer League match at the University of Portland’s Merlo Field.
Blair Gavin scored in the 41st minute, taking a drop pass from Kharlton Belmar and driving a shot from outside of the penalty area into the left side of the net for a 1-0 lead.
After T2 goalkeeper Jake Gleeson made a one-on-one save against Sainey Touray, Belmar broke free behind the defense and was fouled by Austin goalkeeper Devin Perales. Perales drew a red card and Fatawu Safiu converted the resulting penalty kick to make it 2-0 for T2 at halftime.
Playing a man up, Portland dominated play in the second half, but Austin briefly had life in the 88th minute when Trevin Caesar scored on the counter attack. Less than a minute later, Jeanderson, the Brazilian left back on loan from the MLS Timbers, weaved his way into the penalty area and made it 3-1.
