MLS Portland Timbers

Boyd Scores Game-Winner in Timbers Win Over AIK

Published on March 5, 2012 under Major League Soccer (MLS)
Portland Timbers News Release


PORTLAND, Ore. - A game-winning goal by new forward Kris Boyd in his club debut helped the Portland Timbers close out their preseason tournament with a 1-0 win over top-flight Swedish club AIK on Sunday before 17,357 fans at JELD-WEN Field.

Making his first appearance for the Timbers since his arrival on Feb. 21, Boyd gave the home side the lead in the seventh minute by heading in a cross from forward Jorge Perlaza. Goalkeeper Troy Perkins finished with four saves as Portland's defense preserved the shut-out victory. With the win, the Timbers concluded their 2012 preseason unbeaten, with a record of 4-0-3.

The Timbers open their second MLS campaign Monday, March 12, when they play host to the Philadelphia Union at JELD-WEN Field on ESPN 2 as part of MLS First Kick; kickoff is 6:30 p.m. (Pacific).

It was a hard-working effort by midfielder Rodney Wallace that led to the game's lone goal in the early stages of the match. Wallace connected with Perlaza, who from the right side, whipped a cross in on the near post. Boyd worked in to a position to be able drive in a header from close range just seven minutes into the match, scoring on his first shot as a member of the Timbers.

Portland's defense recorded its fourth shutout of the preseason, holding AIK scoreless for a second straight match during the preseason tournament in the Rose City. Perkins recorded two of his saves on shots by AIK striker Robin Quaison, including one on a well-struck 30 yard free kick placed just under the crossbar at the end of the first half.

Quaison and strike partner Viktor Lundregn combined for six of AIK's 12 shots in the match. Second-half sub Kwame Amponsah Karikari nearly leveled the score in the 71st minute, but his sharply hit header went wide right. AIK goalkeeper Ivan Turina matched Perkins with four saves.

The Timbers return to the training field Monday as they make their final preparations for the start of the 2012 MLS regular season.

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