Houston, Texas (May 15, 2019) — Any time that a team makes a signing, they expect that signing to make an immediate impact. However, for an international slot and a Designated Player signing, there’s a bit higher of an expectation. That’s how Brian Fernández is looked at for the Portland Timbers. Portland does not have the kindest schedule this MLS season. With renovations being done to Providence Park, Portland has been on the road plenty of times. The Timbers are on the road for 12 opening games.
Brian Fernández scores in debut as Portland draws with Houston
In Houston, the Timbers were able to snag a point. The Dynamo were coming off a recent loss to the Seattle Sounders, which saw them sink down to fourth place. Meanwhile, on the standings, the Timbers are sitting in 10th place in the Western Conference. However, with the signing of Fernández, things can start changing with Portland.
Fernández celebrated his debut at BBVA Compass Stadium by scoring the equalizing goal in the 77th minute. Fernández originally entered the match in the 65th minute, replacing Andres Flores.
Meanwhile, the Timbers already gave up a goal to Houston. On a free kick in the 40th minute, Mauro Manotas was wide open near the far post. Unmarked, the ball found Manotas’ chest, slipping past Jeff Attinella. Houston took the lead at home, but weren’t able to keep their defense up against Fernández.
The Timbers leave BBVA Compass Stadium as the second team this season to grab any points against Houston at home. The other team to complete this task was Real Salt Lake, during the opening weekend of MLS action. Houston and Real Salt Lake drew, 1-1.
Brian Fernandez's debut @MLS goal is worth alllllllll the replays.🤤#HOUvPOR | #RCTID pic.twitter.com/oyyLn9qPEi
— Portland Timbers (@TimbersFC) May 16, 2019
Prolly shouldn't forget about Mauro in the box 🤷♂️https://t.co/hBIqIMJsBp
— x – Houston Dynamo FC (@HoustonDynamo) May 16, 2019
What’s Next?
Portland will hit the road once again to face the Philadelphia Union. However, Portland has a decent-sized break, with that match not occurring until Saturday, May 25. This will be Portland’s last road game of the 12-match stretch. They return to Providence Park on June 1 against Los Angeles FC.
Meanwhile, the Dynamo have a quick turnaround, hosting D.C. United on Saturday. The match will begin at 8:30 p.m. ET at BBVA Compass Stadium.
