Lawrence Olum scored the 2nd of his career as Sporting Kansas City defeated the Portland Timbers on the road. The lone goal was started by a Seth Sinovic long throw and assisted by Kevin Ellis. Portland clearly had control of the entire match with over 65% possession, but could not find the back of the net as the Sporting Kansas City defenders scrambled to every ball in the box. Despite the edge in possession, SKC had almost equal chances with Portland. The depleted defensive unit managed to hang on for a well earned three points.
This game isn't without its controversy either. Portland wanted a penalty late in the game as Aurelien Collin knocked down Fanendo Adi in the box. However, the referee did not see it as a penalty and play continued on. A bit earlier there looked to be a handball by Collin on the edge of the box that went uncalled by the referee as well.
Man of the Match went to Kevin Ellis for his clinical defense and the assist he provided on the game winner.
Next up for the Portland Timbers is a road trip to Los Angeles where they will face the Galaxy on July 4th. Sporting Kansas City will see action again on July 6th as they host the Chicago Fire.