PORTLAND Ore. – VSI Tampa Bay FC returns to Tampa Bay tomorrow after 2-1 loss to MLS Portland Timbers Reserves Sunday afternoon at JEN-WELD Field.
The match was even through the first half with chances from both sides. However, the possession and chances created from both sides were not enough to elevate either team and the game remained 0-0 at half.
Portland Timbers Reserve player Michael Nanchoff changed the game in the 53rd minute of play with his penalty kick.
The excitement from Nanchoff's goal woke VSI Tampa Bay FC and multiple shots quickly followed. VSI Tampa Bay FC players' Dos Santos and Shawn Chin quickly let off two of the best chances before Mauricio Salles tucked in a beautiful ball assisted by VSI's outside back Bitielo Jean-Jacques.
Salles' goal tied the match up in the 59th minute and catapulted VSI back into the game.
Portland Timbers Reserves Jose Valencia would answer VSI's goal with a redirected finish off a low cross in the 81st minute. Valencia's goal would be the game winner, placing the Timbers ahead of VSI 2-1.
VSI Tampa Bay FC returns to Florida for their home opener against the Rochester Rhinos at Plant City Stadium this Saturday, April 13 at 7:30 p.m. ET. Tickets are available now for $10 General Admission, $5 for kids. Don't miss VSI Tampa Bay FC's inaugural home opener!